Hippo Nursery School operates from September through August, from Monday to Friday, 8:15am to 5:30 PM. We are closed for two weeks over the winter holidays, one week over March Break, and one week at the end of August, as well as all statutory holidays.

During the winter, we follow the lead of the Toronto District School Board in decisions about closing or early closing, due to severe weather conditions.

Full Day program

Middle & Older Preschool Groups / Younger (Toddler) Group:

This program runs Monday to Friday from 8:15 to 5:30pm. Children are in three groups – one for toddlers (18 months to 30 months) and two for preschool children (30 months to 5 years old).

Each group has one ECE teacher and one ECA staff. Most mornings, a family duty day volunteer assists in their child’s classroom. Families volunteer every other week for a duty day.

Morning Program

We have a small number of morning-only spots in our Middle Preschool group during the school-year program.  We can accommodate 3 toddler-aged children in this group, the majority of children in this group are 2.5 years old to 4 years old.

As part of their morning schedule, all children engage in planned or child initiated activities (free play), circle time, outdoor play (weather permitting) and snack.

Lunch : Hot lunches are prepared for all children, except those who are only enrolled in the morning. Hot lunches are balanced, nutritious meals in accordance with the Canada Food Guide. A monthly menu is posted. The lunch period is supervised by the Supervisor and/or ECE teacher and ECA staff.