For two years, Parker’s parents searched for a child care program that would welcome their son.
Again and again, they were turned away.
Parker is four years old. He loves dinosaurs, buses, trains, counting, colouring, and singing the ABCs. Like every child, he was excited to learn, play, and make friends.
But Parker also has autism, and finding child care proved far more difficult than his family ever imagined.
His parents contacted program after program across the region. They visited centres in person, hopeful each time that they had finally found a place where Parker would be accepted.
Too often, they didn’t even make it past the door.
“In many cases, we were denied right away,” Parker’s father recalls.
Some centres said they didn’t have the staffing or resources to support him. Others said they could not accommodate his needs. After years of rejection, Parker’s family began to wonder whether he would ever have the opportunity to experience the friendships, learning, and sense of community that early childhood programs can provide.
Then they received a call that changed everything.
Parker was offered a spot at one of Wesley’s child care centres.
From his very first day, Parker showed just how much it meant to finally belong.
“Every day he runs from the car, pushes the button, and waits at the door,” his father says with a smile. “He’s always so excited to come here.”
At Wesley, children are supported for who they are. Our educators work closely with families to create inclusive, welcoming environments where every child can learn and grow alongside their peers.
For Parker, the changes have been remarkable.
He’s learning to ask for help.
He’s trying new skills.
His speech is growing.
His imagination is expanding.
“Every time we come home, it’s a different Parker,” his parents say. “A little more independent. A little more confident.”
For Parker’s family, this means everything. It means knowing their son is accepted, supported, and encouraged to thrive. It means knowing they are no longer facing this journey alone.
Unfortunately, many families in our community are still searching for that same support.
At Wesley, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and belong in a safe and inclusive environment. Through our Children, Youth & Family programs, we continue to support families by providing welcoming spaces where children of all abilities can succeed.
Parker’s journey is still unfolding, but today he has something every child deserves: a community that believes in him.
