A Day in the Life of Our Little Explorers
At Discovery Tots Dayhome, every day is an opportunity for children to learn, play, and grow in a secure and nurturing environment. While routines may vary slightly across licensed dayhome locations in Calgary and Chestermere, we follow a balanced schedule that combines play-based learning, structured activities, nutritious meals, outdoor exploration, and rest. Our consistent routines help children feel safe, confident, and ready to explore their world.
Morning Routine
7:00 – 8:00 am | Breakfast and Arrival
Children who arrive early enjoy a nutritious breakfast together. This relaxed start to the day helps young learners settle in, connect with friends, and begin their day with healthy fuel.
8:00 – 8:30 am | Free Play and Choice Time
Play-based exploration is a cornerstone of early learning. During free play, children choose from a variety of interactive toys and materials that promote creativity, social skills, and curiosity.
8:30 – 9:30 am | Curriculum and Learning Time
Guided by monthly themes, educators lead engaging activities that include crafts, storytelling, sensory play, games, and hands-on learning. These intentional learning moments help build confidence, problem-solving skills, and early literacy and numeracy foundations.
9:30 – 10:00 am | Morning Snack
Children enjoy a healthy snack, fostering independence and self-regulation while refueling for more discovery.
10:00 – 10:30 am | Circle Time
Circle time brings children together for music, songs, fingerplays, rhymes, and story-reading. This group activity supports language development, rhythm, cooperation, and social engagement.
10:30 – 11:30 am | Outdoor Play and Activities
Whether it’s fresh air in the backyard or creative indoor movement, children engage in gross-motor play, puzzles, art projects, and sensory experiences. Outdoor time encourages physical development and connection to nature.
Midday and Afternoon
11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Lunch
Lunch provides a balanced, nutritious meal that supports healthy growth and energy. Our educators help create calm routines where children can eat, chat with friends, and practice self-help skills.
1:00 – 3:00 pm | Nap and Quiet Time
Rest is essential for young brains and bodies. Relaxing music, soft lighting, and comfortable nap spaces help children recharge. For those who no longer nap, quiet activities such as books or puzzles promote calm focus.
3:30 – 4:00 pm | Afternoon Snack
A light snack helps children stay energized and supports social interaction as friends reconnect after rest.
4:00 – 5:00 pm | Prepare for Parent Time
The final part of the day includes free play, cleanup, diaper changes, sharing daily highlights, and saying goodbye to friends. Educators support each child in transitioning smoothly to home.
Consistency With Flexibility
We know children thrive with predictable routines as well as opportunities to follow curiosity. While this example schedule reflects a typical day, educators are skilled at adapting plans based on each child’s needs, weather, seasonal events, and opportunities for exploration. Our licensed dayhomes support whole-child development—social, emotional, cognitive, and physical—through responsive care and joyful learning.