Christopher Children's Centres celebrates its official opening

Christopher Children’s Centre celebrated its official opening in a new 10,000-square-foot facility helping to address the growing needs of children in Cambridge.

 “Regional Council is committed to providing a vibrant, comprehensive system of early learning and child care that supports the healthy development of all children in our community,” said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. “The redevelopment of the Christopher Children’s Centre ensures that the children enrolled in our programs there are in an environment that supports and reflects the changing approaches to early learning and child care programs.”

Christopher Children’s Centre has operated in Cambridge since 1972, but with growing demands and an aging building, the centre temporarily closed in 2009 to make way for a new building. The new building was ready for occupancy in October 2010, with space for 62 children up from the previous 45.

The new building was designed to meet LEED Silver standards. It also includes many enhancements such as natural lighting, heated floors and open spacious rooms that create a natural, warm, home-like feeling when you walk into the building.

“The new centre supports active learning where the children can make choices around their play, choose and manipulate materials while the teachers support and guide them along the way,” said Nancy Dickieson, Director of Children’s Services at the Region of Waterloo.

The new building also includes public art. A large black walnut tree from the property was saved, milled and used to create a beautiful frieze depicting a woodland scene. Local artist Fred Zavadil created the piece titled "Nature's Realm." With the remaining wood from the tree, five woodland animal figures were carved and sit on display outside each of the children's classrooms. 

Plans are underway to expand the program at this location for younger children (12-18 months). When fully operational the centre will provide high quality early learning and care for children from 12 months to four years of age. 

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For more information, please contact:

Nancy Dickieson, Director of Children’s Services at 519-883-2177 or ndickieson@regionofwaterloo.ca