About Us
Our Story
Lakeside Childcare was created by local educators and entrepreneurs who are passionate about the importance of play, high-quality care, nutrition, and accessibility in early childhood education. With combined experience and knowledge, we set out to create a childcare centre that meets and extends the needs of the community by supporting children, their families, and our educators.
On our 2.5-acre property, children explore outdoor classrooms, tend vegetable gardens, and play in purpose-built spaces designed for their age and stage. Guided by Ontario’s How Does Learning Happen? framework, we nurture curiosity, encourage exploration, and help every child feel they truly belong.
Our Values
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High-Quality CareWe maintain high standards within programming, staffing, materials, and all areas of our centre.
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AccessibilityNo child or family should be left without access to childcare due to lack of accessible services. We are committed to improving our centre's accessibility.
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Outdoor LearningWe encourage rain or shine play and ensure a minimum of 3 hours of outdoor time per day.
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RespectWe celebrate diversity in culture, ability, and identity. Every child and family is welcomed and valued for who they are.
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Our Approach
Using Ontario's How Does Learning Happen? framework, along with play-based, High Scope, and nature-based teachings,
we deliver programming built on four foundations:
Belonging
Every child is connected to others and contributes to their world.
Well-Being
Every child develops a sense of self, health, and well-being.
Engagement
Every child is an active learner who explores with body, mind, and senses.
Expression
Every child is a capable communicator who expresses themselves in many ways.
Our Team
The Lakeside team is committed to creating a positive, welcoming, and supportive environment where families feel safe and confident in the care they are receiving.
Brian Maxfield
President/Treasurer
Father, foster parent, entrepreneur, and entertainer. As a parent, Brian knows firsthand the value of providing affordable childcare within the community.
Daniella Velasco
Centre Director
With over 20 years of experience—including operating her own childcare centre in Colombia—Daniella brings extensive expertise to our team. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is deeply committed to fostering the growth and development of young minds.
Brittany Pyne
Site Supervisor/Mentorship
Registered Early Childhood Educator with 20 years of experience as a classroom educator, supervisor, and mentor. Brittany is passionate about helping children grow and thrives as our Supervisor and Mentorship Lead.
Sarah Maxfield
Committee Lead – Nutrition
Holistic nutritionist with over a decade of experience in health planning. As a mother of four and foster parent, Sarah leads our nutrition programming and brings a deep understanding of how food nurtures growing minds and bodies.
Aaron Zimmer
Operations Manager/iMedia
Aaron is a graduate of Business Communications and Information Technology. Before joining the Lakeside team, he gained valuable experience as an entrepreneur and in management roles across several corporations.
Ready to enroll?
Schedule a visit to see our outdoor play areas and classrooms, meet our educators, and learn how Lakeside can support your child's growth.
Contact Us