Highly Qualified Educators
Our staff are graduates of CIWA's Early Childhood Education programs, speaking multiple languages to support early communication.
Family-Centred Philosophy
We strive to create a seamless transition between home and childcare, ensuring children feel as comfortable as they do at home.
Culturally Sensitive & Responsive Care
Our multicultural environment fosters diversity and cultivates cross-cultural understanding in children.
Nurturing Young Minds This March
At SMILES Childcare Centre, we provide a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow.
Growing Together
Our programs follow the Alberta
Flight Curriculum Framework, which
embraces children's everyday experiences.
Holistic Development
Our teachers use a holistic approach
to child development that nurtures
every aspect of a child's growth.
Play-Based Learning
We prioritize physical activities and
outdoor play as essential components
of a child's holistic development.
Flexible Services
We provide options that respond to the
needs of diverse families and communities
as well as the child's daily care needs.
Extended Hours
We ensure that you have reliable, high-
quality care whenever you need it though our
extended hours, 6AM-6PM, seven days a week.
Beyond Basic Care
We are committed to provide your child
a secure and nurturing atmosphere,
where they feel safe to explore, learn, and grow.
SMILES Childcare Centre
Nourishing Your Child
Our flexible menu provides nutritious, culturally diverse meals and snacks that meet Health Canada's Food Guide requirements, while accommodating various dietary needs and preferences.
You're Involved at Every Step
We embrace an 'Open Door' philosophy that actively encourages family and community involvement to enrich your child's learning experiences. We value your feedback and ideas to help shape the childcare environment.
Your Impact On Our Community
SMILES is a social enterprise initiative by CIWA. We offer high-quality, affordable childcare while creating employment pathways for immigrant women in early childhood education. By choosing SMILES, you contribute to CIWA's broader mission.
Testimonials
Nurtured & Operated by CIWA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your daycare's philosophy and approach to early childhood education?
Developed with support from the Alberta Ministry of Children and Family Services, SMILES offers high-quality, affordable childcare services while simultaneously creating employment opportunities for immigrant women in early childhood education. The centre builds on CIWA’s extensive experience in providing culturally sensitive, multilingual support to immigrant and refugee families. By choosing SMILES, parents not only secure exceptional care for their children but also contribute to CIWA’s broader mission of empowering immigrant families and sustaining vital social programs. This unique model demonstrates how childcare services can be leveraged to create positive social impact, supporting both child development and community empowerment.
Why do I need to pay for daycare when CIWA's services are free?
SMILES is operated by Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA), which extends our expertise in supporting immigrant families to serve the broader Calgary community. While CIWA offers government-funded programs, SMILES is a separate, fee-for-service childcare centre open to all families. We provide affordable, high-quality care delivered by well-trained and experienced staff, combining CIWA’s culturally responsive approach with professional early childhood education.
What are your hours of operation?
We are open from 6 AM to 6 PM seven days a week. Our centre is closed during statutory holidays.
Do you have a process for emergency contact or authorization for pick-up?
During the time of registration parents/guardians will have completed an authorization form and emergency contact form as part of their handbook. This will serve to be used to manage emergencies and ensure safety at pick up times for your child/ren.
We are just a block away from the C-Train station!
SMILES is located in the heart of Victoria Park. Our centre is part of the vibrant Cultural & Entertainment District, making us an ideal choice for families living or working in downtown Calgary.
Connect with us today to learn more!