Finding Community and Support at Beasley EarlyON: Nakoa and Leon’s Story

Every community deserves an accessible place for families and children to connect, play, and find the support they need. For Nakoa and her son Leon, that place is Beasley EarlyON. They learned about this program through an invitation from a friend who knew they lived nearby. When they arrived, they felt at home right away.

Nakoa and her husband are refugees from the Bahamas who started their lives in Canada just over a year ago. Shortly after their arrival, baby Leon joined their beautiful family. The transition brought its challenges. Nakoa described it as a rollercoaster as they had to start their lives over completely, but Beasley EarlyON has provided them with the necessary support to help guide them through. It became a place to find a sense of belonging, a “village” to help raise their child.

Leon is a curious and sociable 10-month-old who loves his time at Beasley EarlyON. His favourite spot is the light table, where he can now pull himself up to explore the toys and magnets on top. He also loves playing with the other children, especially those older than him, whom he calls out to and tries to play with. He wants to be able to keep up with the big kids. Leon is also working on a new skill: sharing.

Nakoa and Leon attend the program as often as possible throughout the week, but it isn’t just the toys that keep them coming back. The warmth and care of the staff, who take the time to get to know each participant personally, offer a listening ear, and provide a helping hand when needed, are important parts of the experience for everyone.

For Nakoa, EarlyON is a place where she can recharge and connect with other parents who have similar experiences and face the same challenges. The sense of relief and support she finds there is invaluable.

As they prepare for Leon’s next step into the Wesley-operated childcare centre next door in Dr. Davey School, Nakoa notes that the staff are “like a well-oiled machine,” helping them transition. “I’m feeling so blessed that I got the opportunity for him to come here,” she says. These interconnected programs provide a sense of familiarity and stability for Leon and his parents as he enters the next phase of his early education.

As Leon grows and develops, Nakoa looks forward to the opportunities offered by other Wesley programs, feeling confident that Beasley EarlyON has laid a strong foundation for his future. Beyond the educational and developmental benefits, it’s the sense of community and belonging that will stay with them, reminding them that they’re never alone on this journey called parenthood.

Nakoa’s words capture the essence of Beasley EarlyON and its impact on their lives: “Coming here feels like you have a break, you’re not alone. It takes a village to raise a child, and I feel as though I’ve found my village.” And in that village, Nakoa, Leon, and countless other families have found the comfort and safety they deserve.