Free, high-quality drop-in programs for families.
EarlyON centres offer free, high-quality drop-in programs for families and children from birth to 6 years old. You can learn and play with your child, meet people and get advice from early childhood professionals.
These centres offer safe and welcoming environments open to all families across Hamilton, with qualified professionals and quality programs. Families and caregivers can find support, advice, make personal connections and access a network of resources.
HOURS: James Street EarlyON Centre is open Mondays and Wednesdays with two blocks available for registration: 9:00 am - 10:45 am and 11:15 am - 1:00 pm.
Gourley Park EarlyON Centre is open every Friday from 9:00 am - 12:30 pm.
UPDATE: Westwood EarlyON Centre will reopen on May 3rd, 2022. Hours will be Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 am - 12:45 pm.
Infant Massage classes will be offered at James Street EARLYON Centre on Wednesdays from 9:30am - 10:30am, beginning May 11th- June 8th.
Infant and Toddler First Aid Session
Join us for one of two information sessions on Infant and Toddler First Aid.
June 13th from 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
June 22nd from 9:30 am - 10:30 am.
With the support of our EarlyON Coordinator who is also a Red Cross Certificated First Aid Instructor, we will discuss what causes choking in children under 6. Additionally, we will cover techniques to prevent choking and what steps to take if you are ever in that situation. There will be a Question-and-Answer period as well. Please note this is not a certification course.
Registration is required through either email: earlyon.jamesstreet@ymcahbb.ca, or by signing up through KEyON.
Virtual Programming
EarlyON Centres currently offers a variety of virtual programs for families. Virtual programming includes live events such as story, music and gathering times, as well as videos and activities that families can do at home with their children. Programs focus on creativity, bonding, socialization and exploration.
In-Person Activities
All EarlyON programs are required to have families reserve and/or register in advance of participating in programs and services.
Additional Programming
Storytime with ASL
Join us for a virtual ASL story time every Thursday at 11:00am - 11:30am.
Telling Tales
Join author, Reina Singh, for her presentation of My Heart Beats on Wednesday December 15, 2021 from 10:00am - 10:30am.
