Taigh Curaim Daycare celebrates opening in Ingonish, growth in Baddeck

This conceptual drawing of the renovated outdoor learning and play area at Taigh Cùraim Day Care Society, Baddeck, done by AKL Landscaping, shows how different levels of the space. CONTRIBUTED Photo by Nicole Sullivan /AKL LandscapingArticle contentThe Taigh Curaim Daycare Society’s new location in Ingonish will provide needed early learning and childcare services for local families North of Smokey, along with the expansion of a facility in Baddeck.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentArticle contentThe daycare society serving Victoria County began a soft opening of its Ingonish site, welcoming children and families as they settle into their new centre. The daycare’s parent committee is currently planning an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate this milestone with the community.Article contentArticle content“Taigh Curaim Daycare Society is proud to announce the opening of its new Ingonish location, providing high-quality early learning and childcare services for local families. The centre was made possible through the collaboration of dedicated volunteers, the society’s board of directors, community supporters, and the Province of Nova Scotia,” said Tina Matroud, director of Taigh Curaim Daycare Society North of Smokey.Article content“The new daycare will help address the growing need of Nova Scotia rural areas for accessible child care that provide children with a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where they can develop socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. The opening marks an exciting milestone for the community and reflects a shared commitment to supporting children and families for years to come.”Article contentFUNDING FROM PROVINCEArticle contentThe Taigh Curaim Daycare Society hosted Victoria–The Lakes MLA Dianne Timmins and Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Brendan Maguire on July 10, at both the Baddeck and Ingonish sites. In order to complete their projects, the province funded Taigh Curaim with $1.2 million to expand childcare in rural communities.Article contentArticle contentThe daycare society is on track to open another site in Bay St. Lawrence later this year.Article contentArticle content“Every new child care space makes a difference for families, especially in rural communities where access can be more limited. It was wonderful to visit this centre and see firsthand how strong local leadership and advocacy, including the dedication of local MLA Timmins, helped make this new space a reality for children and families,” said Minister Maguire.Article contentSince first beginning back in 2019, with fewer than two full classrooms, Taigh Curaim Daycare’s Baddeck location has expanded into a childcare centre which is now licensed for 52 children. What started as a small program has expanded to provide more childcare spaces for families in the community, helping meet a local need.Article contentThe Baddeck centre is supported by a team of 13 staff members, including director Amanda MacNeil, assistant director Ally Oakes, educators Taylor Fortune; Lexie Jessome; Emma Fitzgerald; Shampa Mandal; Deanna Sealy; Aarti Aarti; Vishali Sharma; Kylie MacRae; Lateesha Denny; and Tara MacDonald, along with summer substitute Hope Deveaux. Their commitment and passion help foster a welcoming environment where children can learn and grow each day.