Makoonsag Intergenerational Children's Centre

Makoonsag Intergenerational Children’s Centre, Inc. believes that children are sacred spiritual beings and that caregiving is a sacred responsibility. Makoonsag is a child-centered facility that provides high-quality early learning and care where children learn traditional values fundamental to the child’s growth and development and where children can develop to their fullest potential. Makoonsag implements a play-based program that endeavours to meet the needs of all children enrolled while recognizing each child’s unique path. The program prioritizes the needs of the children but also respects the importance and participation of the family. Makoonsag is a place where all generations meet, play and learn together. Traditional values and the Sacred Teachings guide the program and ensure a secure environment for the children where they can observe, explore and grow. Makoonsag values the traditional knowledge Elders bring and involves the Elders in the planning and delivery of the program to children and families. The presence of Elders provides guidance that encourages a holistic approach to the individual child’s spiritual, physical, cognitive, social and emotional growth. Children are entitled to a safe and healthy environment that is stimulating and responsive to their needs. Nature and a natural environment play an important role in the children’s program.

Enrollment Policies: Makoonsag is sponsored by Urban Circle Training Centre (UC), the University of Manitoba Inner City Campus (ICC) and Red River College (RRC) and is licensed for 12 infants/toddlers and 40 preschool children. Priority for spaces in Makoonsag is given to children whose parents are students attending UC, ICC or RRC on Selkirk Ave. There may be spaces available for children from the community depending on enrollment. After a parent has completed their program at Urban Circle, Inner City Campus, or RRC their child or children may continue to attend the Makoonsag until the parent is ready to withdraw the child but no sibling will be admitted after the parent has completed their schooling. This policy is to help ensure that there will be places for children of incoming UC and ICC students. Children accepted from the community will have their space until the children are old enough for grade one (6 years). For children attending Nursery School and Kindergarten, the centre will walk the children to their assigned schools (William Whyte, 200 Powers St. and Niji Makhwa at 450 Flora St.).