OUR STORY

Seventeen years of muddy boots, brave mornings, and first best friends.

Two Toronto West End centres, serving hundreds of families, with a commitment to providing exceptional childcare.

A candid photo of a female toddler kneeling down to study a puddle of water on the asphalt walkway inside Green Apple Kids' natural playground.

— HISTORY, MISSION AND APPROACH

It began in 2009 with one centre on Dundas Street West and a straightforward mission: to create a safe, happy, and diverse learning environment that inspires children, families, and educators to strive for excellence each day.

In 2012, we opened our second centre on Windermere Avenue, bringing the same approach to Bloor West Village, Swansea, and High Park families. Today, children at both centres grow up alongside educators who’ve been here for years – some since the start.

Our approach draws on Reggio Emilia, HighScope, and nature-based learning, but the test is always simpler than the theory: did the child leave today more curious than they arrived?

Toddlers and preschoolers also take yoga and dance, led by community practitioners we trust. These creative outlets help children express and name what they feel. And gardening runs all year, indoors and out. Tending living things grows patience, responsibility, and a connection to the natural world children can see with their eyes, touch with their hands, and feel in their heart.

— OUR EDUCATORS

Consistent, long-term educators are at the heart of our program.

A candid photo of a smiling female ECE teacher kneeling beside a preschooler painting a dreamcatcher piece of art hanging from a braided string.

Every room is led by Registered Early Childhood Educators. Many have been with us for years; some for over a decade. That continuity provides a real foundation. Young children build security through familiar faces.

We keep our educators by treating the work as the profession it is: a positive work environment, real support, competitive compensation, respect for their judgement, and a priority on professional development. Parents feel the difference at the door every morning and evening.

Core Values

We expect every employee to exemplify these values in all they do:

Excellence

We are an organization that strives to be a source of high-quality childcare in addition providing research-based support for families and the community.

Confidence

Our goal is to instill confidence in families that their children are receiving high quality care and education in all areas of their development.

Compassion

Compassion is at the core of everything we do. Our dedicated educators provide a warm, supportive environment where every child feels seen, heard, and cared for.

— Real food, properly sourced

Nutritious. Balanced. Delicious.

A candid photo of a male preschooler scooping humus from a container while sitting at a desk for lunch. Out of focus in the background is a teacher serving another student.

A closeup of broccoli with in a bowl with a silver serving spoon as well another bowl of sliced oranges with white serving tongs.

Growing bodies and minds need real fuel. Every meal and snack comes from Real Food for Real Kids – fresh, made from scratch, and chosen for nutrition over anything ultra-processed. The four-week rotating menu is approved by a registered dietitian and exceeds the guidelines set out in the Child Care and Early Years Act. Mornings start with a snack of at least two food groups; lunch is a hot main – locally sourced chicken, pasture-raised beef, sustainably caught fish, or nutrient-rich legumes – paired with whole grains and a colourful mix of vegetables and fruit; and the afternoon brings an interactive snack made to be engaging as well as nourishing, alongside fresh fruit and veg, Ontario cheeses, and locally made breads and dips.

Food allergies are handled with real rigour. Both centres are completely nut- and peanut-free, and children with allergies or dietary restrictions receive individually sealed, labelled replacement meals – a full alternative menu, so a child with a restriction eats the same variety as everyone at the table. We build a documented plan with every family, and every educator with the child is trained to follow it.

Learn more about Real Food for Real Kids →

— NEXT STEPS

Love our approach and looking for a spot?

Spots at both centres go to families on the list – it’s free to join, and doing so early matters. First, complete a 30-second online inquiry form and we’ll be in touch with further details.

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A candid photo of a male toddler inside Green Apple Kids' natural playground, smiling at the camera. A teacher holding another child on her lap can be seen in the background.