“As a single mom raising a baby I have struggled with isolation and exhaustion. Finding Eastside Family Place has been a lifesaver for me” parent participant.
Eastside Family Place (ESFP) offers a variety of programs that promote early childhood development and provide parenting education. Our goals are to help you raise a healthy child(ren) and to help you be the parent/caregiver that you wish to be. ESFP’s programs provide opportunities to meet other families, to create new friendships and to be part of a caring community.
Parenting Education
Nobody’s Perfect
Nobody’s Perfect is a popular Canada-wide parenting education program for parents of young children. Learn more and view upcoming sessions here:
Circle of Security
Circle of Security is a relationship-based parenting program designed to enhance and deepen the attachment between parents and children. Learn more and view upcoming sessions here:
Eastside Fathers Circle
Discuss parenting, learn more about your child’s development& needs. Run by an experienced male facilitator. Learn more and view upcoming sessions here:
Creating Connections and Calming the Self
This program is designed to support children aged 3-5 and their caregivers to explore self-expression and emotional regulation through the expressive arts. Great for more sensitive kids! Learn more and view upcoming sessions here:
Meal Planning Made Easy for Young Families
Come together with other young mothers to learn how to cook larger amounts of food to freeze in order to simplify daily meal planning and preparation. Led by Chef Larissa Grieves. You will receive recipes and meal guide created by Chef Larissa. Learn more and view upcoming sessions here:
Parent Workshops
Workshops on a variety of topics for parents/caregivers are offered throughout the year. Recent workshops have included infant massage, first aid, sleep, discipline and many others. Please visit our Parent Workshops page for more information.
Early Literacy and Learning
Toddler Rhythm & Rhyme + Movement is a fun, interactive program for you and your child, ages 18 months to 3 years. Songs, rhymes, and movement promote early literacy and early childhood development. Upcoming sessions and more information available here:.
Food Programs
At ESFP a nutritious diet is considered foundational to healthy development. Therefore, food-security programs are integral to ESFP’s mission and we offer a variety of programs that promote nutrition and respond to community needs. Please learn more about our food programs here:
Parents in the Kitchen
Parents in the Kitchen are volunteers who make simple, budget-conscious light meals that are shared with and enjoyed by all Drop-In participants. Read more and consider volunteering here:
Kids in the Kitchen
Guided by a nutritionist, children aged 3 to 6 years are invited into the kitchen to cook, learn and enjoy. This is a great early-learning opportunity. Learn more here:
Little Sprouts Gardening Workshops
Experience and explore nature through this hands-on, age-appropriate gardening program that takes place in ESFP’s community garden. Read more here:
