About Us
For decades, The Children’s House Child Care Society has been a trusted name in early childhood education across Lethbridge. Our daycare program began before our official founding, and since 1976, we’ve proudly operated as a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing children and supporting families.
Guided by a volunteer Board of Directors, our Society is built on a foundation of community, care, and a commitment to lifelong learning. We offer a range of programs including daycare, licensed family day homes, and a registered Alberta Education Kindergarten, each designed to meet children where they are and help them grow into confident, curious learners.
Our Mission
We follow Flight: Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework, which places children’s interests at the heart of learning. Our emergent curriculum encourages exploration, imagination, and meaningful play, helping children make sense of the world around them in their own unique way.
Our Values
At Children’s House, we believe every child is a capable and confident learner. We honour each child’s individuality, culture, and voice, creating spaces where they feel safe, supported, and free to express themselves.
Our educators build strong, caring relationships with families and the community, fostering environments where children thrive.
We see children as mighty learners and citizens, co-researchers who ask questions, test ideas, and make sense of the world through play and connection. We respect their ability to assess risk, make decisions, and learn through trial and error.
Our Goals and Approach
Our goal is to support emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development. Through responsive environments and reflective teaching practices, our educators observe and nurture each child’s unique learning process. Curriculum decisions are shaped by the children’s interests, encouraging exploration, collaboration, and creativity.
We also recognize the importance of family, culture, and community in a child’s development. By engaging families and honouring diverse backgrounds, we create vibrant learning spaces where children feel a deep sense of belonging.
At Children’s House, we’re more than a child-care provider; we’re a place where children grow, families connect, and learning comes to life.
Meet Our Team
Daycare/Kindergarten
Anita
Executive Director/Educator
Hi, I am Anita.
I grew up as a Hutterite in Saskatchewan, spending my time as a child (from 6 to 13 years) babysitting young children. After leaving the colony, a whole new world opened where I was able to choose my own career and have access to education that had not been an option for me before.
I was first introduced to Children’s House as a practicum student in 2012. This is also the year that I worked here for the summer before going back to college to complete my education, graduating with a Child Care Supervisor qualification in 2013. I returned to Children’s House and was placed in the Maple room as a primary Educator. Since then, I have held positions of Supervisor, Acting Director and now Executive Director since 2017.
I love the field of Early Childhood because we see children with huge amounts of possibilities and a whole world waiting for them to explore. I enjoy spending time in the classroom co-learning with the children as they share their theories, and together, we get to wonder what happens next. I get excited when a child’s eyes light up with pride in their idea or accomplishment that they choose to tackle. I believe that children are able, capable, and need time to know themselves without adult pressure to reach the next step/level/milestone. Children will amaze you every time you give them the time, space and right to just be. When the adult chatter fades, the children can be found.
Jen
Admin/ Educator
Welcome, I’m Jen! After graduating from the Early Childhood Program in 2000 with my Diploma and Level Three Early Childhood Educator Certification, I have spent my time working in the Early Learning and Childcare field ever since. I have worked in many settings: an educator in centre-based care, an educational assistant in elementary school, an ARCQE mentor, and a day home educator. Co-learning and exploring possibilities with children, their families, and co-educators is my passion.
I have been with The Children’s House Child Care Society as the day home coordinator, consultant, and home visitor since 2012. I love to co-learn alongside educators as they create responsive environments and places of vitality for children, their families and the community. I value supporting families through finding early learning and care that reflects their vision and needs for their children.
I am passionate about reflecting on my work in early learning and child care and throughout the years, have received my certificate of completion of the Flight course: Exploring Early Childhood Curriculum: Play, Possibilities and Participation through MacEwan University, Brain Story Certification as well as Leading Through a Pedagogical Lens through ARCQE.
Exploring in nature; hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, snowshoeing, kayaking and gardening are a few things I love doing with my family. I also love to be in the kitchen making sourdough bread and baking.
Geraldine
Educator
Geraldine first came to Children's House as a practicum student working towards her Level 2 Early Childhood Education certification in the winter of 2023. She later joined the team part-time throughout the summer and while she completed her program of study from 2023-2024. In May of 2024, Geraldine continued on to a full-time position and has worked in all of the classrooms, providing support to children and educators alike.
Rokea
Educator
My name is Rokea. I moved to Canada in 2018. I have been working with Children’s House Society Daycare since 2022. During this time, I have worked with children of different age groups and gained valuable experience supporting their learning and development.
Currently, I work with children between the ages of 3 and 4.5 years old. I enjoy creating a positive and caring environment where children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. In my free time, I enjoy quiet and peaceful moments, sunshine, and swimming.
Beth
Kindergarten Teacher/Educator
My name is Beth Petersen and I have been at Children's House since 1998. I grew up in Santa Ana, California. I have my Bachelor of Science Degree and an Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Development from the California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, California. I received my Bachelor of Education from the University of Lethbridge, specializing in Early Childhood Education. I studied and completed the Children’s Mental Health program at Mount Royal College. Additionally, I have extensive training on autism. I completed the Flight Curriculum course through Grant MacEwan as of January 2019. I am currently a member of the Core Flight Team at Children’s House.
I have 2 grown children and 2 grandchildren. When not at Children’s House, I enjoy camping, music, running, reading and spending time with my family.
I believe children are mighty learners. I enjoy watching as they inquire, investigate, explore and research. My favourite thing to do with children in my class is to explore and co-research all about insects in the spring and summer. Part of my education in California included collecting 50 different species of live insects and arachnids and preparing a display showcase to present to my professor and class.
Ama
Educator
Hi, my name is Ama! I’m originally from Ghana. I moved to Canada in 2023, where I completed my Early Childhood Education and Level 2 Certification at Lethbridge Polytechnic in 2025.
I started working with Children’s House in July 2025. I was in the Birch (infant) Room for a couple of months, then moved to the Maple Room, and I absolutely love working with toddlers. Every day with them is a new adventure filled with laughter, learning, and discovery! I enjoy watching how excited they get when they try something new and celebrating the little milestones they achieve.
As an Early Childhood Educator, I believe children learn best through play, curiosity, and connection.
My goal is to create a fun, caring space where each child feels safe, loved, and free to explore the world around them.
I love travelling, experiencing new cultures, people and food. I’ve been to 15 countries so far, and I hope to see more of the world soon.
Tamanna
Educator
I completed my Senior Secondary education in Science from West Point School, Punjab (India).
I have passed my English language testing system (IELTS) with an overall 7.5 band score.
I got certified in computer and communication in 2022. I was a TELTS instructor from January to November 2022, which built up my passion for an educator job.
After moving to Canada, I was enrolled in Early Childhood Education with practicums in my 2 semesters. Currently, I am unmarried.
My hobbies are travelling and exploring new places.
Tamanna first joined Children's House as a summer staff, from April to August 2024 and has now returned full-time as of January 2025.
Goliana
Educator
Yash Patel
Educator
I'm Yash. I completed my high school in India in 2018 and started preparing to come to Canada. I chose Early Childhood Education as my Diploma/Degree and started my diploma in January 2020, finishing my education in December 2021 with my ECE Certification as well as Food Safety and WHIMIS certificates.
I have worked in the field of ECE since 2023. In January 2025, I started working for Children's House.
I like to go on hikes and long drives.
Pelumi
Cook
I’m Pelumi—a food enthusiast and a vibrant, curious soul who loves creating meaningful experiences, whether that’s through food, community, or simply good vibes. I joined the daycare as a cook in August 2025.
I’ve had the opportunity to explore my passion in different ways over the years, including working in restaurant settings, earning relevant certifications, and even bringing ideas to life as a food vendor at several events in Lethbridge. Winning a few local pitch competitions has been a highlight for me—it showed me that creativity and courage can open unexpected doors.
In my current role, as a cook, what I enjoy most is how my work contributes to the children’s daily happiness and development. It’s fulfilling to know that the meals I cook can brighten their day, encourage healthy habits, and create a healthy environment where they can thrive. Outside of work, I’m all about balance and good energy. I love driving around with my favourite music playing—there’s something freeing about the open road and a great playlist. I also enjoy going to the gym, staying active, and pushing myself to grow both physically and mentally. Overall, I’m someone who values joy, connection, and continuous growth—and I bring that spirit into everything I do.
Ravneet
Educator
I began my educational journey in India, where I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Commerce. With a growing interest in working with children, I pursued Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Montreal, which strengthened my understanding of child development and early learning practices.
Since 2022, I have worked full-time in a daycare setting, developing meaningful connections with children and supporting them through their early learning years. I enjoy creating a warm, safe, and engaging environment where children feel encouraged to explore, express themselves, and grow with confidence. Working with children brings me a deep sense of happiness, and I find great joy in being part of their development and daily learning experiences.
I am committed to fostering positive relationships with children and families, and I strive to contribute to a nurturing and supportive atmosphere every day.
Day Home
Jen
Day Home Coordinator/Consultant/Home Visitor
Welcome, I’m Jen! After graduating from the Early Childhood Program in 2000 with my Diploma and Level Three Early Childhood Educator Certification, I have spent my time working in the Early Learning and Childcare field ever since. I have worked in many settings: an educator in centre-based care, an educational assistant in elementary school, an ARCQE mentor, and a day home educator. Co-learning and exploring possibilities with children, their families, and co-educators is my passion.
I have been with The Children’s House Child Care Society as the day home coordinator, consultant, and home visitor since 2012. I love to co-learn alongside educators as they create responsive environments and places of vitality for children, their families and the community. I value supporting families through finding early learning and care that reflects their vision and needs for their children.
I am passionate about reflecting on my work in early learning and child care and throughout the years, have received my certificate of completion of the Flight course: Exploring Early Childhood Curriculum: Play, Possibilities and Participation through MacEwan University, Brain Story Certification as well as Leading Through a Pedagogical Lens through ARCQE.
Exploring in nature; hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, snowshoeing, kayaking and gardening are a few things I love doing with my family. I also love to be in the kitchen making sourdough bread and baking.
Debbie
Educator
"I teach to enable, enliven and encourage."
While my post-secondary education and continual ongoing training have allowed me to gain expertise in the field of Early Childhood, I believe my greatest strength is my passion for working with young children. I have been with Children's House Satellite Family Day Home program since 1993 (and over 40 children in my care later) I still continue to find joy in welcoming, nurturing and teaching in my north side Day Home.
I reinforce my philosophy, "Children are Mighty Learners, they learn through play” by expanding on their interests and needs and providing them with experiences to learn through such play. I believe in being an Educator who is a co-learner, co-researcher and co-imaginer not only with the child but with the families, the Children’s House Educating Team and the community. My years of experience has taught me well what children respond to. I offer a large playroom with a variety of toys and activities, which I feel makes my day home a unique place to learn and grow. I offer many child-related play areas: Literature and Quiet, Dramatic Play, Blocks, Sand and Water, Manipulative Centre, Art, as well as a large outdoor area to run, climb and play. I also transport children, and we can be found at the Public Libraries for story times and book lending, the Family Centre for Family Day home Play Time in their large playroom. As well, we have outings to many beautiful parks like our River Bottom and playtime at the many playgrounds our city has to offer.
During my free time, I am busy making great memories with my husband, two grown daughters, son-in-law and our lovable pup, Winnie.
I would love to have the opportunity to further discuss my services and unique program available to your child and family.
Visit my day home online at: https://debbz30.wixsite.com/debsdayhome
Leslee
Educator
Hello! My name is Leslee, and I have been part of the Children’s House family since June 2015. In 2022, I completed my ELCC Diploma and have my level 3 certification. I have been fortunate to be able to work with all ages of children at the centre, from our toddler room (Birch Room) to our 4-year-old room (Evergreen Room). In 2018 I completed the Exploring Early Childhood Curriculum: Play, Possibilities and Participation (FLIGHT) through MacEwan University and began to develop my own practices of an emergent curriculum based on the children’s interests. In 2018/2019, I was fortunate to join a pilot project through GRIT and became the Site Lead for ASaP, where I worked to implement social and emotional development in an inclusive environment within my classroom. In September 2019, I accepted an administrative position of Pedagogical Mentor, where I work with my co-educators (both at the centre and in our day homes) and the children in their classrooms as we implement the Flight: Early Learning and Child Care Curriculum in our centre. In 2022, I became a Daycare Program Supervisor in addition to mentoring my co-educators.
I love exploring the community around my early learning environment and building strong relationships with our community members. Working at the centre, I was excited to build a partnership with the children in my classroom and the residents at the Edith Cavell Care Home with regular monthly visits to play and build relationships. I also created a Riverbottom Program where the children (ages 2-6), Jen and I spent the whole day in the river bottom exploring and connecting with nature.
My favourite part of working at Children’s House is learning about each child and their family’s individual values and reflecting on how we can nurture those beliefs together. I am excited to continue growing with Children’s House as I start my new journey of opening my day home in June 2023. I believe that children are confident, capable, mighty learners and that every day is meant to be the best day ever!
In my down time, I enjoy wandering our local Riverbottom with my dog Harlee, spending time with my extended family, and taking time to plan my next camping and kayaking trip!
Please feel free to follow me on my Early Learning Instagram Blog: https://www.instagram.com/playfulponderers.
Lacey
Educator
Hello! My name is Lacey! I was born and raised right here in Lethbridge, AB. My spouse and I have three young children. We have a family dog named Baloo. He is a lab mix and is such a gentle giant. We decided after our second child that I would stay home and raise our family. As a mother, I know how important it is to find the right care, and I would love to welcome your children into my home.
As a provider, I will help develop the children’s interests and skills so they can thrive when learning how to create, discover, explore and use their imagination.
I believe in providing a happy and safe space where your children are respected and nurtured. I'll encourage learning through play while exploring the world around them, including reading, outdoor playtime and activities. Our day is structured with some flexibility. Snacks, lunch, quiet time and outdoor times don’t change; however, our activities vary. Snack and lunch are provided, and I encourage healthy eating, following the Canada’s Food Guide.
I look forward to meeting with your family very soon!
Elen
Educator
I am Elen! I was a high school teacher who taught grades eleven and twelve. My original country is Syria, so my first language is Arabic. I came to Canada with my family because of the war in my country. I have two daughters, one is in grade twelve and the other in grade seven. I lost my husband during the COVID pandemic, but with all the support from the people around me, my friends in the job, and families who have sponsored us to come to Canada, I stayed standing and helped my daughters grow up and continue on their path. We are Canadian citizens now since 2021!
After a few years of working in the Children's House Daycare, I have decided to continue my path in the Early Learning and Child Care field and open my day home. I want to use all my experience and build my space. I would like to provide the day home with Syrian food and share all special traditions and practise some different holidays with the child in my care.
I am looking forward to meeting you and your family!