Introducing SMILES Childcare Centre: Empowering Families, Supporting Immigrant Women, and Nurturing Young Minds
For over four decades, the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA) has been a pillar of support for immigrant women and their families, helping them build brighter futures in Canada. Today, we are thrilled to unveil an exciting new chapter in our journey: the launch of SMILES Childcare Centre. This initiative embodies our commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and holistic family support.
Why a childcare centre?
The idea for SMILES Childcare Centre came from CIWA’s deep understanding of the challenges families face in accessing affordable, safe, and culturally sensitive childcare. At CIWA, we recognize that the well-being of children is intrinsically tied to the well-being of their families. By offering a nurturing space for children, we give parents peace of mind while they navigate their daily responsibilities.
Unique integration into CIWA’s social enterprise initiatives sets SMILES apart. The centre provides high-quality childcare and creates employment opportunities for graduates of CIWA’s Early Childhood Educator (ECE) program. While we welcome educators from all backgrounds, we take immense pride in offering our graduates a pathway to meaningful employment. Play-Based Learning with the Alberta Flight Curriculum
At SMILES Childcare Centre, children thrive through play-based learning inspired by the Alberta Flight Curriculum. This approach fosters curiosity and growth by encouraging exploration, creativity, and social interaction—laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Please visit the SMILES Childcare Centre website to learn more about our services, enrollment process, and how we are creating a nurturing environment for your child.
Flexible Hours and Prime Location
We understand the demands on working parents and offer flexible hours that fit your family’s needs. Whether you need full-day care or part-time options. SMILES is here for you. Conveniently located in downtown Calgary, near the Victoria Park – Stampede LRT Station, our centre is easily accessible for families living or working nearby. Whether you’re commuting by bus or train, our central location makes it easier for parents to drop off and pick up their children.
A Multilingual and Inclusive Space
Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of SMILES Childcare Centre. Our highly trained educators create a safe, multilingual environment where children from all backgrounds feel valued and supported. By offering care in various languages, we ensure every child feels welcome and understood. Nutritious Meals for Growing Minds
We share every parent’s goal of nourishing growing minds and bodies. At SMILES, children enjoy healthy meals aligned with Canada’s Food Guide. Each meal is designed to provide balanced nutrition essential for their development.
Affordable Fees with No Surprises
At SMILES Childcare Centre, transparency is key. Your fees cover everything—no hidden costs or supplemental charges. With support from the Alberta Affordability Grant and federal subsidies, parents pay just $15 per day. Your parent portion (fee) will be $326.25 per month – a truly affordable option for quality childcare.
SMILES Childcare Centre represents more than just a childcare service; it is a community-driven initiative that empowers families while supporting immigrant women in building professional careers. We look forward to welcoming your family into our nurturing environment where children flourish, parents feel supported, and smiles abound!