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Canvas Learning Child Care

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Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Monday-Friday) | Ages: 6 months to 6 years

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Educational/Teaching Philosophy & Method

Led by FCC Educator Julia Santo, Canvas Learning Child Care’s educational philosophy is centered around the belief that every child is a unique and creative individual who deserves an environment that fosters growth, exploration, and learning.

Julia’s program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which emphasizes hands-on learning, child-centered education and child-led exploration. We encourage children to learn through play, creativity, and social interaction, nurturing their natural curiosity and self-expression.

Canvas Learning Child Care operates out of Nurtury’s Family Child Care (FCC) Incubator. Learn more about Julia’s experience and background below:

I have worked in early education for 7 years.

I began my career in early childhood education in 2017 as a teacher assistant in a preschool classroom, where I worked closely with teachers to monitor and support each child’s development. I became familiar with teacher routines, ensuring seamless class management in their absence. Later, I enrolled in university and earned my teacher certification to work with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. During this time, I developed skills to create fun and engaging activities that meet the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social needs of young children.

As I gained experience, I took on leadership roles as a Preschool Lead Teacher and Director I & II, focusing on the Reggio Emilia curriculum. In these positions, I helped other teachers plan lessons and create strategies for challenging behavior in the classroom, while also tracking student progress and identifying areas where they needed more support. In 2022, I graduated with an Associate Degree in Early Education and a certificate in Early Childhood Education, with a focus on Preschool and Infant/Toddler care (Bilingual). I am passionate about continuing my professional growth and actively seek new learning opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest in early childhood education.

The main barrier to opening my FCC in my home was related to housing. I’m not able to buy a house right now, and my current landlord doesn’t allow me to run a business in the property. Other landlords were open to it, but they wanted higher rent, which made it too expensive for me to afford.

Opening my own small business means the chance to turn my passion into something meaningful while helping my family. It gives me the opportunity to support them financially, provide stability, and create a better future for us all. It’s about taking control of my future, doing what I love, and making a positive impact for my family’s well-being and for others who may need employment or support.

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Meet FCC Incubator Resident Julia Santo