Play, learn, and grow: The Langara program that’s changing childhood education

For over two decades, Langara College has been home to a vibrant and inclusive childcare space, where laughter and learning go hand in hand. The Langara Child Development Centre, a full-time day-care facility located at the heart of the campus, provides high-quality early childhood education for children aged 18 months to five years. Beyond childcare, it also serves as a vital learning hub for students pursuing careers in early childhood education and related fields.

We spoke with Head Pre-School Teacher Jade Wollmann and Early Childhood Educator Thuy Dung Pham to learn more about the centre’s play-based philosophy, its role in the Langara community, and how it helps shape the next generation of early childhood educators.

A leader in Early Childhood Education.

The Langara Child Development Centre is recognized as a leader in the field. In 2018, it became part of the first cohort of the $10-a-day ChildCareBC centres, a program under the Canada-British Columbia Early Learning and Child Care Agreement (ELCC). This initiative ensures affordable, high-quality child care for families while fostering an inclusive environment where every child is valued.

At the core of the centre’s philosophy is play-based learning, where children explore, experiment and engage with the world around them.

“The play-based environment involves children learning through their play. We set up activities that foster their interests and we help them use the materials in ways that support their development.”

- Jade Wollmann, Head Pre-School Teacher

Inclusion is a key pillar of the program. Children with extra support needs participate fully in daily activities, with individualized programs designed in consultations with parents and professionals to meet each child’s specific needs for growth and development. “A core part of our philosophy is inclusion,” said Wollmann. “We support a diverse range of needs in our group.”

The heart of the campus.

Nested in the secondary quad near the Students’ Union Building, the Child Development Centre’s outdoor play space is a familiar sight to students and employees across campus. According to Jade, the presence of children creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere. “I think seeing the children fosters a real sense of a Langara community. It shows they’re a part of the broader community, too.”

The centre’s impact extends beyond childcare. Students in programs such as Human Performance and Recreation, Nursing, Psychology, Special Education Assistants, Photography and Journalism observe or interact with staff and children as part of their studies.

Most notably, the centre serves as a practicum site for students in the Langara College Early Childhood Education program as well as other ECE programs in the region.

Thuy Dung Pham, a Langara ECE graduate, completed her practicum in the centre before being hired as a full-time educator. She credits the hands-on experience for a career in early childhood education.

“It was such a good opportunity to learn. In the real world, children don’t always behave how they do in teaching examples. Learning how to give guidance was something I could only learn outside the classroom.”

A lasting impact.

The Langara Child Development Centre is more than just a childcare facility—it’s a place where community, education, and inclusion come together. The benefits ripple across campus, enriching the experiences of Langara students by creating a nurturing environment for children to thrive.

“We’re not just our little world here. We collaborate with departments across the college. All of us support the children, and all of us benefit from their presence.”

Langara’s Early Childhood Education program offers hands-on learning, expert instruction, and practicum placements at facilities like the Child Development Centre. Find out more about Langara’s ECE program and how you can begin your journey toward a rewarding career in early childhood education.