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Child and Youth Programs

Calgary child and youth programs

Trico Centre offers a wide selection of high-quality registered sessional classes for children of all ages, including:

  • Parent and Tot
  • Preschool
  • Child and Youth Programs
  • Skill Builder Programs (NEW!)
  • Summer Day Camps
  • Events

Trico Centre Members save 20% off the cost of most registered children’s programs and receive two-day priority registration.

Our Child and Youth Programs aim to cultivate a passion for engagement by encouraging exploration of new activities and fostering meaningful connections. These programs prioritize socialization, cognitive development, physical fitness, and overall mental well-being. Explore a diverse range of options, including active gym classes, sports, dance, arts and crafts, skating, preschool preparation, gym and swim, day camps, and more!

For Swimming Lessons please see the Aquatics section.

Trico Centre’s Skill Builder Program is an inclusive program series that supports the mental, social, emotional, and physical development of children and youth. Our goal is to 1). help build confidence 2). foster a sense of belonging 3). offer extra time to learn and develop skills in a small group setting 4). introduce support strategies based on individual needs and abilities. Current Skill Builder Programs include Fine Motor, Friendship Foundations, Wellness Warriors, Direction Detectives, Confidence Quest, Anxiety Explorers, and Non-Competitive Sports. To register your child in any of these programs, click here.

Qualified instructors lead our programs. They promote independence, confidence, socialization, and, above all, fun! Each team member must clear a Police Check/Vulnerable Sector Search and hold certifications in Standard First Aid/Level C CPR.

Programs run on a sessional basis five times a year. Classes range from 5-10 weeks in length. This is a fantastic opportunity to repeat classes you love or try a new activity!

Child and Youth Programs
Child and Youth Programs
Child and Youth Programs
Child and Youth Programs
Child and Youth Programs
Child and Youth Programs

Parent & Tot

Walking – 4 Years old

A wonderful opportunity for parents and caregivers to offer support and encouragement as their child explores, practices new skill, and spends time interacting with other children.

Preschool

2.5 – 6 Years Old

Children’s Program Facilitators support and engage children as they explore free play opportunities, circle time, songs, crafts, snack time, transitions, and age-appropriate games. Children must be full potty-trained.

Child/Youth

6 – 14 Years Old

Fun and engaging programs offer young people the opportunity to explore interests, make connections, develop skills, build confidence, and participate in recreational sports and activities.

Parent & Tot Programs
Preschool Programs
Child/Youth Programs

Skill Builder Program

4 – 14 Years Old

An inclusive program series that supports the mental, social, emotional, and physical development of children and youth. Our goal is to 1). help build confidence 2). foster a sense of belonging 3). offer extra time to learn and develop skills in a small group setting 4). introduce support strategies based on individual needs and abilities.

Skill Builder Program

 

Child & Youth Programs FAQs

How do you communicate with parents about classes?

All program information is sent to caregivers via email. This includes the program welcome letter, long weekend reminders, cancelled classes, and any class changes. Please ensure your email is up to date through your online account or by contacting Guest Services (403-278-7542).

What is your child guidance policy?

We believe in encouragement and leadership, not discipline. Our child guidance policy follows a model in which we try and understand the reasons or meaning behind a child’s behaviors. We are consistent with our expectations and focus on positive behaviors rather than negative through redirection and positive reinforcement. We do our best to support children in making good choices and encourage open communication between instructors and parents to help ensure your child’s success.

What if my child doesn’t like the program?

Sometimes the activity and/or instructor isn’t quite the right fit for your child. At your earliest convenience, we ask that you contact our Program Management team to discuss your child’s class, needs, and experience. If we do find the class isn’t right for your child, we will do everything to find another suitable class or discuss other options with you.

What if I need to withdraw my child?

PROGRAM TRANSFER:

Requests to transfer to another program will be subject to availability (no fees apply). Transfers resulting in a higher fee must be paid at time of transfer. If a transfer results in a lower fee, a CREDIT will be applied to your Trico Centre account.

PROGRAM WITHDRAWAL:

* Six days or more PRIOR to a program start date: Withdrawal requests will be processed less a $30.00 fee per activity with the program fee applied to your Trico Centre account. Refunds may be processed on request.
* Less than six days or after a program start date: No credits or refunds will be permitted.
* Medical withdrawal: A credit will be applied to your Trico Centre account. A doctor’s note must be provided within two weeks of request.

NOTE: Credits in your Trico Centre account may be used toward any service at Trico Centre and expire one year after issue date.

Why do you cancel classes?

We want the best experience for your child and will run most programs with a minimum of 4 children (some exceptions apply). Typically, we will only cancel a class if there are less than 4 children registered and do our best to try to work with you to transfer them into another program (or combine it with another class). We understand this is not always the most convenient option for your schedule and appreciate your understanding. We will reach out to the primary account contact by email to discuss choice of account credit or refund (no administration fee).

Can I register my child if they are younger or older than the posted age?

There is a lot of development in a short period of time at this preschool age. We can make exceptions for some classes if your child is turning the age within a month from the start date of the program. Due to the nature of some programs, age exceptions may not be permitted. If your child is older than the posted age and you feel they are better suited in the program, we are happy to speak to you more about that. For any age exceptions please contact the Programs Management Team.

This will be my child’s first time away from me, what if they cry?

Your child may be shy, miss their parent, and cry for the first while. At the first class, we encourage parents to help comfort them. As we progress through the session, a quick drop off is best as children typically calm once we start our activities. We are absolutely comfortable if your child is crying and have many ways to help comfort and engage them in the class group. If your child is inconsolable, we will contact you to come assist, encourage, and work with you to create a good plan for the next class. Always feel free to speak with your instructor so we can create a successful and comfortable environment for your child.

Can I watch the class?

We recognize parents want to see how their child is doing in the class, and some classes are easier (logistically) to watch than others. We recommend and ask parents to stay out of the class area unless permitted or requested by the instructor. As your child is learning to become independent, we have found through experience children are more apt to learn and follow their instructor when parents are not present. If there is any concern and instructors feel it is best for your presence, they will request you to stay.

Why are some classes only 30-45 minutes?

Many of our classes are quite active with quick changing activities to keep the attention and excitement of the class. We have found that depending on the activity level and genre, 30-45 minutes is more than enough for the children to stay engaged. Once we go past that time frame children start to tire and then lose interest, and we always want to end with the excitement of next class.

What happens if they need to go to the washroom or have an accident?

Our preschool classes have a ratio of 1:8. When a child needs to go to the washroom, we take a potty field trip all together. This is also a good opportunity for other children try to use the washroom. We do ask parents to ensure your child has gone to the washroom prior to class beginning. In the case of an accident, we will do our best to clean them up and call you immediately to come assist. It’s always a good idea to pack a change of clothes in your child’s backpack.

What should we bring to class?

Please send your child with:

  • clean/indoor shoes
  • labelled water bottle (please refrain from juice)
  • change of clothes
  • appropriate outdoor wear
  • nut-free snack (for classes over 1.5hrs),
  • any specific equipment (skates, swimsuit, etc.)
  • backpack your child can carry

My child needs additional supports. Can they register for programs?

Of course! All children are welcome in our programs! We would love to hear from you and learn more about your child’s needs, strengths, and any identified supports. You know your child best. By making us aware, our Programs Team can implement strategies that promote success and an overall positive experience. If your child would benefit having a caregiver or aide attend program dates, please reach out to our Programs Director. Support persons are required to participate in all activities including swimming. For more information or to ask questions, please contact Jennifer Howard at jhoward@tricocentre.ca

How do I contact the Programs Management Team?

We would love to hear from you! Please contact us if you have questions, concerns, programming suggestions, if it’s your first time and you want to know more about our programming.

For quickest communication please email us.