Small Steps Early Learning Centre is the new name for our fabulous daycare. We opened our doors in 2008 and have been growing ever since.

We believe that a child's early years set the foundation for further learning. We provide a play-based learning experience in a welcoming environment in which children are nurtured and challenged cognitively, emotionally, socially and physically. We facilitate experiences for children to grow, learn and discover in a stimulating environment, allowing children to develop at their own pace.

We are a Fully Licenced facility with a capacity for 84 children. We are inspected by both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health, upholding the standards set forth by them. We provide programs for children 3 months - 12 years of age.

We employee RECE's that are certified in First Aid and CPR to provide quality care that meet the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of each individual child. Our assistants are individuals that have a genuine interest and experience working with children and in facilitating their development.

We are located in Oak Ridges, off of Yonge St. between King Road and Bloomington Side Road. This makes us the perfect location for busy parents that are accessing the major highways or the transit.

Proud to offer all families over 12 years of experience in the Childcare Industry. Call us now!

Our Team

May

Hello, my name is May. I am the supervisor and one of the owners here at Small Steps Early Learning Centre. I have 23 years’ experience in education from daycare settings to the university level. After obtaining a Master degree in Computer Science in China, I received another Master degree in Economics and an Accounting diploma in Canada. I worked as a teacher at the college level in China and was a teaching assistant and a tutor in Concordia University in Canada. In Montreal, I owned and ran a daycare for five years. 

In 2016, after moving to Toronto, I decided to continue pursuing the field of education. I received my ECE diploma, a MACTE accredited Montessori diploma for CASA (2.5 to 6 years old), and a MACTE accredited Montessori diploma for elementary (6 to 9 years old). Since then, I have worked as a Montessori directress in several Montessori daycares and Montessori elementary schools. I have also taught Mandarin in both elementary and middle schools, and I was a French teacher in a daycare. Before joining the Small Steps Early Learning Centre team, I was the supervisor in a Montessori School in Toronto. I am very happy to join the Small Steps ELC family!

Xeidhar

Hello, my name is Xeidhar. I am the Spanish teacher and a designated ECE at Small Steps Early Learning Centre. I have been working at Small Steps Early Learning Centre for over 9 years. I graduated in my home country as a Pre-School Teaching Technologist, a four-year university program.

In Canada, I have been involved in the International Language Program and taught Spanish for the York Region Catholic School Board for over four years, and worked as a caregiver for two and a half years before I joined the Small Steps family.

I enjoy working with young children using my skills and knowledge plus the exciting experience of being the mother to three wonderful daughters and the grandma to two beautiful and intelligent granddaughters.

Chang

Hello everyone! My name is Chang and I have eight years of experience in Early Childhood Education and as a Mandarin teacher. I was born and raised in China and can speak Mandarin fluently. In China, I studied and obtained a master’s degree in physiology.

Once I moved to Canada, I decided to further continue my education. I attended Seneca College where I received my Early Childhood Education diploma in September 2019. I have experience in various daycare settings and I am familiar with the Montessori curriculum and theories. I have successfully completed a Montessori program. In the past, I have been responsible for creating engaging activities, delivering programs alongside peers, organizing concerts and interacting with children of all ages. Over the years, I have taken multiple courses to strengthen my knowledge on early development, family and community relationships and creative arts.

I am married and a mother of two amazing children. In my free time, I enjoy reading, cooking and playing games with my kids. I am very passionate about teaching and working with children of all ages.I find it to be very rewarding watching children learn and progress each day. I am pleased to be joining the Small Steps team as the Mandarin teacher and Early Childhood Educator. I am looking forward to meeting you all!

Malik

Hello, my name is Humaira Malik. I graduated from Seneca College with a Early Childhood Education diploma in 2020.  While completing my course, I learned the great importance of understanding children’s mental and physical development, which was fascinating. Watching children grow and observing their developmental milestones has been a wonderful gift.

I love art, music and spending time with children whenever I get a chance. I really enjoy working with children, and want my students to feel safe and have a sense of belonging in my classroom. In my free time, I tutor a wide range of students in English and Mathematics, anywhere from kindergarten to grade 8. In working with my students, I enabled them to perform at a higher level academically, and feel inclusive in the environment.

Kun

Hello, my name is Kun, I graduated from Seneca College in the Early Childhood Educator Program with honors. I am  bilingual Early Childhood Educator, and can speak English and Mandarin. I have the extreme pleasure of teaching toddlers and preschoolers, and love being engaged in caring, curious, and respectful interactions with children to support their growing relationships with themselves, each other, and the natural world.

My work is rooted in the belief that a great education is foundational to life's success. I am very glad to join Small Steps family!

Tania

Hello, my name is Tania. As an Early Childhood Assistant and a healthy and safety representative at Small Steps Early Learning Centre, I am very please and honoured to be working with these energetic and loveable children.

I can speak Spanish and English, and have a certificate in General Secretarial Studies and in Microcomputers Business Applications. I am outgoing, patient, responsible, and have a good sense of humor.

I am so happy to be a part of the Small Steps family and enjoy taking care of the children!

Ali

Hello! My name is Dalal Ali, and I am an art teacher and a secretary in Small Steps Early Learning Centre. Teaching has always been my passion, and for the past six years, I have been fortunate enough to live that dream. From a young age, I knew that my purpose in life was to inspire young minds through the world of art, design, and education.

My favourite aspect of being a childcare teacher is teaching art to the children. The sheer delight on their faces as they engage in creative expression is priceless. Art opens up a world of possibilities for them, allowing them to communicate their thoughts and emotions in unique ways. The joy and sense of accomplishment they feel when they create something special is incredibly rewarding.

I am also passionate about continuous learning and personal growth. I find excitement in trying new things, whether it's experimenting with innovative teaching methods or exploring different forms of art and design. The process of acquiring knowledge and expanding my horizons fuels my enthusiasm for teaching and enriches my interactions with my students.

When I am not in the classroom, I find joy in spending time with my family, which includes my three beautiful children. They are my constant source of inspiration and motivation. We enjoy creating art together and exploring the world through our travels.

I feel blessed to join the Small Steps Early Learning Centre and have the opportunity to ignite the spark of creativity and knowledge in my students' hearts. As I continue to grow and learn alongside them, I am confident that this journey will be filled with inspiration, wonder, and the joy of creating a brighter future, one brushstroke at a time.­

Alifiyah

Hi, I’m Alifiyah, the French teacher in Small Steps Early Learning Centre. I have an ECE Assistant certificate, and I am trained in CPR/First Aid, Food Handling and WHMIS. I have worked with children for over 10 years in all different areas including teaching, coaching sports teams, driving a school bus, volunteering at my children’s school events, and babysitting.

I love having activities outdoors, playing sports, writing poetry, and spending time with my family and friends! The daily interactions with young minds, their boundless curiosity, and the privilege of guiding them through the wonders of learning make this profession incredibly rewarding. The connection formed with each child, the opportunity to foster creativity, and the supportive community of colleagues all contribute to a sense of purpose that goes beyond the classroom. Despite its challenges, the impact on shaping the future generation's foundation and instilling a love for learning makes this a truly gratifying experience.

I am excited to join the Small Steps family and be a part of these children’s beautiful lives as they grow, learn, and hopefully provide all of them with a positive and supportive environment where they feel they can achieve anything!


Satha

Hello, my name is Satha Navagnani. Originally from Sri Lanka, I moved to Canada 30 years ago. I earned a Bachelor Degree in economics in India and taught economics, accounting and mathematics for 5 years in elementary and high schools in Sri Lanka. Upon arriving in Canada, I worked as a tutor. I spent two decades at Broad Ridge, a communications company, and in 2016, I was honoured as Employee of the Year for my role as a supervisor. Additionally, I served as a lunch supervisor at Little Rouge Public School.

I’m happily married with two children and have over a dozen nieces and nephews. Taking care of them has prepared me to work with children in various settings. During my children’s elementary school years, I volunteered, accompanied teachers on field trips, and participated in school day activities. I also worked with a company called Alphabet Kids to distribute meals to children during lunchtime.

Coming from a family of teachers, I delight in reading and playing games with children. I teach my kids to play chess and indulge in hobbies like badminton and baking. My goal is to instil confidence and knowledge in children. As part of Small Steps family, I find joy in working with kids, parents and colleagues. My experience enables me to play a pivotal role in shaping their futures. I relish the opportunity to nurture curiosity, foster a love for learning, and instill important values in my little learners. Contributing to their foundational years makes this more than a job – it’s a passion I’m fortunate to pursue.

Laura

Hello, my name is Laura! I am currently studying as an Early Childcare Assistant in Toronto. I have diverse experience in early childhood education. I worked as a Center Administrator in Ontario and as an Early Education Instructor successively at two well-known international Early Learning Centers in China. Holding a diploma in Early Childhood Education from Jilin Normal University, I am passionate about 

creating positive environments for children's growth. With my extensive experience in the early childhood education field and being a mother of three, I understand and engage with children at different developmental stages. Whether through singing, dancing, playing, gymnastics, or crafting, I enjoy spending quality time with kids and aim to foster a love for learning in them.

Working at Small Steps has been an immensely gratifying experience for me. The warm and nurturing environment, coupled with the genuine passion of my colleagues, has created a workplace that feels like a second home. Interacting with the children on a daily basis is not just a job but a joy; witnessing their growth and development is truly heartwarming. Small Steps fosters a sense of community and teamwork, where everyone is committed to providing the best care and educational experiences for the children. I am excited to build close-knit relationships with both the children and their families, creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. I take pride in being part of a team that prioritizes the well-being and happiness of each child, making every day at Small Steps a source of fulfillment and job satisfaction.

Alyssa

Hello my name is Alyssa, and I am working in toddler program at Small Steps Early Learning Centre. Currently taking early childhood educator courses in Humber College, I am also eager to embrace hands-on experiences and immerse myself in learning and growth.

Outside of my professional pursuits, I have a deep passion for travel and honing my French language skills. My leisure time often finds me exploring new destinations and practicing this beautiful language. Working with children and observing their growth and development is a truly rewarding experience.

What truly sets my heart aglow is witnessing the profound transformations that occur within the children. I observe as they conquer challenges, develop a sense of empathy, and gain a profound understanding of the world around them. The sense of accomplishment and pride I feel when I see them progress and thrive is unparalleled. It’s a vocation that brings immense joy, knowing that I’m contributing to the growth of these little individuals who are destined to leave a positive mark on the world.

I’m looking forward to learning from all the great teachers around me in my day to day life and I’m very excited to work with all the children within the centre. Being a part of the Small Steps family brings me great joy, and I eagerly anticipate meeting each and every member of our community.

Asma

Hello, my name is Asma Hashimi. I study college diploma in Office Administration – Health Services at Seneca College of Applied Arts & Technology. Throughout my academic journey, I've actively engaged in my school community, which has allowed me to develop strong interpersonal skills.

As a mother of a wonderful baby girl, I love spending time with my daughter and maintaining a safe and clean environment. I make sure her meals are prepared in a timely manner. The everyday tasks of bathing, dressing, administering necessary medications, managing household tasks, providing guidance, and disciplining when necessary are all part of what makes my life wonderful.

Being surrounded by so many lovely kids and witnessing their growth is an incredibly fulfilling experience, and has allowed me the opportunity to do what I truly love. Working with other wonderful colleagues, I am so delighted to be part of the Small Steps family.

Sharon

My name is Sharon, currently serving as a Vice Supervisor at Small Steps Early Learning Center. I have over seven years of dedicated experience in the field of Early Childhood Education, and I am a dynamic professional committed to fostering optimal growth and development in young learners.

My professional journey began with a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Niagara College in 2017, laying a strong foundation for my career in nurturing young minds. Then, to advance my knowledge and expertise, I continued a Degree in Early Childhood Studies from Ryerson University, graduating in 2020.

Throughout my career, I have held various roles in the ECE field, starting as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) and progressing to Supervisor. Being a RECE gave me the chance to discover children's uniqueness and creativity and helped me form a deep understanding of child development theories and effective classroom management strategies. As a supervisor, I have invaluable insights into the intricacies of leadership, team collaboration, and operational management within childcare settings.

My professional journey has been enriched by diverse experiences, including working in full-day childcare centers, overseeing before and after-school programs, and facilitating engaging activities in summer camps. These multifaceted roles have honed my ability to create inclusive and stimulating learning environments that cater to the unique needs of every child.

Currently, I am furthering my academic pursuits through a part-time Master’s program in Educational Policy and Leadership at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto, which supports me in my ongoing commitment to staying abreast of emerging trends, research, and best practices in the field of education.

As a Vice Supervisor, I am dedicated to promoting excellence in early childhood education and supporting families, and I will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

Masoumeh

Hi, I’m Masoumeh Tondkar. I earned my master’s degree in clinical psychology in 2023. My journey in the childcare field has been 10 years, during which I’ve cultivated a deep understanding of children's mental and physical development processes. This knowledge has been pivotal in fostering effective communication with them.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been witnessing all children's growth and development. With my psychology background, I believe that my skill set encompasses diverse competencies essential for effective early childhood education. It will help me to identify developmental milestones and potential areas of concern and support early childhood educators for early intervention and support.

Beyond my professional endeavors’, I love to engage with children in painting and crafting, and I cherish every quality moment with children. I am grateful to spend time with children during their early years and witness their creativity and curiosity. It is a privilege to have contributed to their academic achievements and sense of belonging in their environment.

I am delighted to be part of the Small Steps Wonderful team as an early childhood educator assistant. It brings me immense fulfillment to play a role in nurturing and guiding those children.