StrongStart

The parent is the first and most important teacher in a child's life.  Campbell River School District supports parents in this important role by providing a free, early learning program, called StrongStart, for young children from birth to kindergarten and their parents or caregivers.  Under the direction of licensed early childhood educators, parents and children participate in early learning activities, such as story time, music, singing, art and puzzles.

Children gain problem-solving skills and build self-esteem and the social skills that will help them when they enter school. Parents and caregivers learn activities that they can do at home to further support their child's learning and nutrition, as well as connect with other parents and caregivers.

While the program is free, parents do need to complete a registration form so that such items as emergency contact information is on file. Please bring your child's birth certificate with you to register. 

StrongStart will be run as a drop-in program for 2022/2023 school year.

Joanne Bishop, Cedar Elementary StrongStart Facilitator

Meet Joanne. Joanne has grown twin sons, three step children, a son-in-law and a really cute dog. Joanne has been an early childhood educator for over 30 years, working in a variety of settings. Joanne's previous job was in an administrative role and she choose StrongStart as she really wanted to get back to working directly with children and families.

Joanne was born in England, immigrating to Canada at age 12 and has lived in Campbell River for the past nine years. She is adventurous; enjoying skiing, Zumba, yoga and many outdoor/active pursuits. She has a great sense of humour, is fun and full of laughter and is very dedicated to her role as the StrongStart facilitator at Cedar Elementary.

Joanne would like all the families that attend Cedar to feel welcome and part of a community. She looks forward to meeting you and your children.