Ages 3–5 · Edmonton · No cost to families

Where little ones learn through play, rooted in culture

A free, culturally grounded early-learning program preparing Aboriginal children ages 3–5 to enter school on an equal basis with all other children — in a positive, fun, stimulating, and respectful environment.

Painting of three Indigenous children in traditional dress, with an eagle, inukshuk, and Métis infinity symbol

Our Head Start program aims to strengthen and prepare Aboriginal children ages 3–5 with the necessary school-readiness skills and cultural foundation to enter mainstream schools on an equal basis with all other children in a positive, fun, stimulating, and respectful learning environment. Our main program philosophy is “Learning Through Play.”

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Our Mission

The Aboriginal Head Start Programs will strengthen and prepare the Aboriginal child with the cultural knowledge and emergent literacy skills needed to excel in school and life. This will take place with the support, guidance and active participation of parents and Elders. These key players will ensure that programming provides the child with positive experiences through a culturally enriched curriculum.

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Our Vision

To provide an environment where the Aboriginal pre-school child has the opportunity to learn and practice their culture as part of the curriculum. Head Start provides each child exposure to the required emergent literacy skills that prepare them to enter school on an equal basis with all other children. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in the education of their child through a variety of program involvement opportunities.

Why choose Aboriginal Head Start?

Everything your family needs for a joyful, confident start

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No cost to your family

Our program is completely free, and we welcome children from all over the city of Edmonton.

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Free bussing

Free bussing is provided to families living within site-specific boundaries.

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Snacks & a warm lunch

Two snacks and a warm lunch are provided at each site, every day.

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No Status Card needed

No Status Card is needed to enroll — families simply identify as having Aboriginal ancestry.

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Specialized services

Access to Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Behavioural Supports and more.

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Activities & family support

Gymnastics, yoga, swimming and other extracurricular activities — plus Parent Education Groups and In-Home Family Support.

…and so much more.

Melissa Nollski, Executive Director Tansi! Welcome

A message from our Executive Director

Tansi! Welcome to our Aboriginal Head Start program…a place where your child will be welcomed, encouraged to participate and have an amazing time in the most fabulous and fun learning environment. The children will laugh, love and learn through play, while meeting many new friends and diving into activities and experiences that are sure to make your child’s time in our program a memorable one!

We are honoured you have chosen our Aboriginal Head Start program as your child’s first step in their educational journey and we look forward to working together to explore the dynamic needs of each and every child and their family community who enter through our program doors. We can’t wait to meet you all…

Welcome — Tawâw!! Hiy Hiy

Melissa Nollski · Executive Director

Head Start site locations

Three sites across Edmonton

Free bussing is provided to families living within site-specific boundaries.

September – JuneProgram operates
Kihew 🦅 (Eagle) ClassTuesday / Thursday
Muskwa 🐻 (Bear) ClassWednesday / Friday
9:00 am – 3:05 pmClass times

Ready to give your child a bright start?

Enrollment is completely free. Reach out to begin your child’s application today.

Start your application Contact us