About EarlyON

What is EarlyON?

EarlyON Child and Family Programs are free, welcoming spaces for families with children from birth to six years of age. Through play-based learning and supportive conversations, families can explore early learning activities, learn about child development, and connect with others in their community.

In York Region, EarlyON programs are delivered by multiple community organizations. York Child Development & Family Services operates EarlyON centres in Newmarket, East Gwillimbury, and Georgina.

Wooden toys, blocks, and natural materials arranged on open shelves in a child-friendly learning space.
Early childhood educator speaking with a small group of families and children in a welcoming community centre setting.
Three mothers and their babies playing together during a family program in a welcoming early childhood centre.

How we support families

EarlyON programs are designed to support both children and caregivers.

Families can:

  • Join play-based programs that encourage learning through exploration
  • Learn about child development and how to support their child’s growth
  • Access trusted parenting information and community resources
  • Meet other families and build supportive relationships
  • Attend workshops on topics such as sleep, feeding, post-partum health, and preparing for school
  • Receive one-on-one guidance from qualified Early Learning professionals

Who is EarlyON for?

EarlyON programs are open to families and caregivers with children from birth to six years of age.

Programs are free and open to all families with children from birth to six years of age. Our EarlyON centres are located in Newmarket, East Gwillimbury, and Georgina. You do not need a referral to attend.

We welcome families of all backgrounds, cultures, languages, and abilities. If your child has additional needs, our team can help connect you with supports and resources.

Parents, guardians, and foster parents

Grandparents and extended family caregivers

Nannies and home child care providers

Families new to the community

Find a centre near you

Explore our EarlyON centres in Newmarket, East Gwillimbury, and Georgina. View program calendars, hours, and details for each site.

  • Outside of EarlyON Newmarket

    Main Centre

    Newmarket Location

    Standalone EarlyON centre near Upper Canada Mall offering free programs for children birth to six, Monday to Saturday.

  • Outside of EarlyON Child and Family Centre Keswick

    Main Centre

    Keswick Location

    School-based EarlyON centre in Keswick offering free programs for children birth to six, Monday to Saturday.

  • Outside of St Paul CES Newmarket

    Mobile Site

    St. Paul CES (Newmarket)

    Located at St. Paul CES in Newmarket, this school-based EarlyON site offers free programs for children birth to six on select weekdays.

  • Outside of Jersey Public School Keswick

    Mobile Site

    Jersey Public School (Keswick)

    Located at Jersey Public School in Keswick, this EarlyON mobile site offers free programs for children birth to six, Monday to Friday, in a welcoming play-based space.

Our Partners

EarlyON programs are funded by the Government of Ontario and delivered locally by York Child Development & Family Services.

We work in partnership with community organizations to support families and strengthen connections in Newmarket, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, and across York Region.

  • York Region Public Health
  • York Region District School Board
  • York Catholic District School Board
  • Autism Ontario
  • Early Intervention services
  • Public libraries
  • SickKids Hospital
  • Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
  • York Region Speech and Language Program
  • York Hills Centre
  • Welcome Centre Immigrant Services
Diverse families and children participating together in a welcoming early learning program.

Inclusion and Accessibility

EarlyON Child and Family Programs are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for all families.

We respect and support diverse cultures, languages, family structures, and abilities. Our programs are designed to reduce barriers and ensure equitable access for children and caregivers.

Work With Us

York Child Development & Family Services is committed to strengthening families and building healthy communities across York Region.

If you are interested in meaningful work that supports children and caregivers, learn more about current opportunities with YCD.