Saskatchewan’s First Corporate Childcare Centre Opens in Downtown Saskatoon 

Key Highlights:

Vendasta and Tykes & Tots launch Saskatchewan's first corporate child-care centre in Saskatoon core.

Centre accommodates 80 children with dedicated space for Vendasta employees.

Includes chef-cooked lunches, leadership development for employees, and community meal-sharing initiative.

Key Background :

Vendasta's decision to create a corporate childcare center is corporate social responsibility and business strategy. Since the corporation has over 600 employees and growing global reach, it realizes the evolving needs of today's working parents. With this decision, not only is employee retention improved but also supports the national momentum towards greater access to childcare as part of Canada's plan for $10-a-day childcare.

Tykes & Tots, a Saskatoon non-profit organization, has a long history of early childhood education and five other licensed facilities. The business venture is the company's first venture into the business world and allows them to bring their philosophy of play-based, child-led learning to the center of Saskatoon's business district.

The centre is unique in that it has a built-in philosophy. The learning plan is structured so that it is in accord with children's natural interests, gardening, ecosystem, or cultural exploration, say. Through the availability of nature trails, urban gardens, and local parks, children are able to take learning outside of the classroom. Nutrition also becomes integrated into daily life, as meals are prepared by chefs who provide a chance to talk about food, health, and culture.

Employee testimonials confirm the program's success. For most parents, having their children near them during the workday has reduced stress and improved focus. It also allows them to capture developmental milestones they might otherwise miss, increasing the emotional connection with the child without sacrificing professional obligations.

Staff development is also on the same level. Teachers undergo leadership training for greater self-confidence, more effective communication, and ensuring long-term growth in the profession. All these change the centre into a wonderful work environment and a model of professionalism in early children education.

Most endearing is the "Little Tykes Kind Bites" program. Created with input from local first responders, it is an educational initiative that teaches empathy and civic responsibility to youth. Preschoolers help package leftover food and send cards to food insecure individuals—cultivating compassion and community values at a very early age.

Saskatchewan's initial corporate childcare centre is not just a reward for employees. It is a groundbreaking partnership of education, family care, and corporate creativity— paving the way for a more compassionate and inclusive future for working families.

About the Author

Mia Jones

Mia Jones is a Managing Editor at Education Excellence Magazine.