Our Wishlist
An ever evolving list of toys, tools and equipment to support our programs.
Illustration by Rae Mate.
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Supports creative exploration and hands-on learning. Creative programming encourages self-expression, fine motor development, and confidence.
Examples include:
Paint, clay, collage and mixed media materials
Child-safe tools and easels
Artist workshops or visiting facilitators
Seasonal craft supplies
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Supports daily outdoor play in all seasons. Island kids love to be outside. Outdoor play builds resilience, coordination, and connection to place.
Examples include:
Climbing structures and balance equipment
Rain gear and outdoor storage
Shade structures or seating areas
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Supports children with diverse learning styles and needs. These tools help ensure every child can participate fully and comfortably.
Examples include:
Sensory tools (weighted items, tactile materials, fidgets)
Visual supports and communication materials
Calm spaces and regulation equipment
Adaptive seating or specialized materials
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Supports our nature-based and exploratory learning experiences. Adventure-based learning fosters curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship.
Examples include:
Backpacks and field gear
First aid and safety equipment
Magnifying glasses, nature identification tools
Transportation or outing-related costs
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Supports the maintenance and longevity of our facility. Our facility is showing its age, the central building was constructed in 1985, and the office addition in 2011. Investing in our building ensures a safe, welcoming, and functional space for children and staff.
Examples include:
Flooring, painting, and repairs
Storage improvements
Energy efficiency upgrades
Accessibility enhancements
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We provide a free daily shared snack to all children in our programs. Food security is an essential service in our community, and contributions to our snack and garden programs are a meaningful way to support children each day.
If you would like to donate healthy snack items, please reach out first so we can share our current needs and any dietary considerations.
We also have a small but expanding garden at our centre. We welcome:
Garden volunteers to help with planting, weeding, and building beds
Donations of plants and child-sized garden tools
Hornby Island Daycare Education Fund
At The Hornby Island Daycare, we believe that investing in our educators is one of the most important ways we can invest in our children and the future of our community. That's why we've created the Hornby Island Daycare Education Fund.
This fund will help us continue providing a high standard of care for the children and families of Hornby Island by supporting the ongoing education and professional development of our team. Donations will help existing staff continue their education, supporting staff as they work toward their Early Childhood Educator (ECE) certification, and provide professional development opportunities that strengthen the skills and knowledge of our entire team.
Why is this fund needed?
Licensing requires us to have a set number of fully trained Early Childhood Educators in every program. Without fully trained staff we are not able to meet the needs of our working families.
However, becoming a certified Early Childhood Educator requires significant unpaid practicum hours, creating a financial barrier for many people who would otherwise pursue certification. This is especially true for those already working in childcare or with young families.
Our goal is to help ease the financial barrier so that more people can enter the profession, existing educators can continue to grow, and our daycare can build and retain a strong, qualified team.
More than a donation, this is an investment in our community.
By contributing to the Hornby Island Daycare Education Fund, you are helping create opportunities for current and future educators, strengthening the quality and continuity of childcare on Hornby Island, and supporting the families who depend on it.
This initiative reflects one of our core organizational values Continued Growth, which is reflected in being an exemplary employer. We value our educators as professionals and leaders in the field. We support ongoing professional growth, foster collaboration, and work to be exemplary employers while contributing to the wider early childhood education community.
Thank you for your support!
