Children aged four and up are eligible for kindergarten in Canada. In addition to the publicly funded kindergarten, some private schools offer full-day or extended-day programs. In some cases, international students are also accepted. However, you should know that the government does not directly run the kindergartens. Instead, the education ministry oversees these programs.
Children aged four and up are eligible for kindergarten in Canada
Kindergarten in Canada is open to children four and older, but it’s not compulsory. While children in the United States and many other countries must start school at age six, children in Canada don’t need to attend kindergarten. Regardless of age, kindergarten offers children an opportunity to meet other children and learn new things.
In Canada, children aged four and up are eligible to start kindergarten in September. The program is free for four-year-olds, and it helps them make the transition to elementary school. It gives children a chance to explore the world of school and to believe in their abilities. It also helps them develop competencies and prepares them for first grade.
Some school boards offer extended full-day programs
In some provinces, some school boards operate extended full-day kindergarten programs for their students. This approach can be a helpful option for parents with young children, as it allows parents to attend work or other responsibilities. The programs are also designed to provide more physical activity for children. Activities should be developmentally appropriate and tailored to the children’s physical fitness level. They should also emphasize participation and allow for a variety of activities and games.
The Waterloo Catholic District School Board in Ontario offers an Extended Day Program, which enables children to extend their knowledge through a variety of activities. The program also encourages independence, communication, and curiosity in children. The program is taught by Registered Early Childhood Educators, who are members of the College of Early Childhood Educators. Registered Early Childhood Educators are professionals who have a broad knowledge of the development of children and can provide a play-based educational environment.
Some accept international students
In Canada, some kindergartens accept international students. These schools offer English, French, or both languages as the medium of instruction. The school year varies by province, but it typically begins in September and ends in June. Classes usually run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. or from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In Canada, kindergarten is optional for children under five. Most preschools are privately run, but some are government-funded.
To enrol in a Canadian kindergarten, parents must apply for a study permit. The study permit will allow the child to attend public or private school. It is also possible for the child to attend free of charge if the parents are enrolled in a pathway course. The study permit can be obtained online from the IRCC.