EarlyON St. Thomas - Elgin

Why Toddlers Love to Climb!

Have you noticed your toddler climbing on couches, chairs, or shelves? While it may feel stressful, climbing is an important part of early childhood development!

Climbing helps toddlers:
-Build strength and coordination
-Improve balance and body awareness
-Develop problem-solving skills
-Gain confidence and independence

Toddlers are natural explorers, and climbing helps them learn about the world around them.

Safe Climbing Tips:
-Anchor heavy furniture and TVs to the wall
-Keep furniture away from windows
-Provide safe climbing opportunities like cushions, playgrounds, or obstacle courses
-Supervise closely and teach simple safety rules

Instead of always saying “no climbing," try redirecting your child to safe places where they can move and explore.

Every climb helps your toddler grow stronger and more confident!

IMAGE: A toddler standing on a small chair.

EarlyON Central is going to Dan Patterson Conservation Area!

Join us on Tuesday, June 23 and Tuesday, June 30, from 1:30-3:00 pm for a field trip to explore nature.

On June 23 we will be doing a nature hike and scavenger hunt. On June 30 we will be creating nature crowns and bracelets.

Please register at www.keyon.ca.

IMAGE: A child hand's exploring twigs.

Due to First United being closed for construction EarlyON Central is offering Splash Pad Fun on Thursdays from 1:30-3:30 pm!

Join us at the Pinafore Park splash pad for lots of water play. We kindly ask that you arrive within the first hour of program.

IMAGE: A young child in a splash pad touching a stream of water.

Today, Wednesday, June 17, 2026, is the St Thomas EarlyON Children’s Festival at Pinafore Park. Due to this event the EarlyON zones have the following changes.

EarlyON Central: All locations closed
EarlyON East: All locations closed
EarlyON West: Limited programs

Please visit www.keyon.ca for more information.

EarlyON Central had a great time on our field trip to the St Thomas Fire Station!

Thank you to the St Thomas Fire Department for giving us a tour, teaching us about fire safety and letting us explore the fire truck!

St Thomas Fire Department

EarlyON West offers Baby Time twice a week!

Join us from 1:30-3:30 pm at the following locations.

Wednesdays - Aldborough EarlyON Child & Family Centre
Thursdays - John Kenneth Galbraith Library

For more information, please visit www.keyon.ca.

IMAGE: A smiling infant exploring a ball with multiple scarves hanging out of it.

Join EarlyON East for Baby Time with Nurse Visit at the East Elgin EarlyON Child & Family Centre in Aylmer on Tuesday, June 16, 2026!

Baby Time is from 8:30-11:30 am and the SWPH nurse will be there from 9:00-11:30 am.

For more information, please visit www.keyon.ca.

IMAGE: An infant on their stomach reaching out for a stacking toy.

Culture Fest is this Friday (4-7 pm) at the St Thomas Public Library!

Join us for a joyful community celebration of culture, creativity, and belonging.
📅 Friday, June 19
🕖 4:00 – 7:00 pm
📍 St. Thomas Public Library
✅ Cultural performances, activities, and snacks
✅ Family-friendly
✅ Free entry – no registration required
Hosted in partnership with St. Thomas Public Library and sponsored by Elgin County.
View the event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1516154293392907/