Growing minds
through play

We believe play, in all its wonderful forms, is the heart and soul of early learning. RisingOaks families know that our approach creates the foundation for boundless curiosity and discovery. Through play, children learn how to learn.

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Full-day
Child Care

Birth to age 5

Infant, toddler and preschool children discover the world through play, participating in age-appropriate learning activities.

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Before & After
School Care

JK to age 12

Flexible before and after school care that suits your needs while providing a place to nurture friendships, independence and lifelong learning.

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Camp
Programs

JK to age 12

From March Break to Summer Camp to Winter Break, RisingOaks provides a year-round, fun-filled, learning through play camp experience.

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Registration
Info

All Programs

We are here to help and answer any questions every step of the way. 

What’s New at RisingOaks

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Where to Find Us

Serving our community since 1981, RisingOaks has 9 locations across the Waterloo Region.

RisingOaks Early Learning centres are located on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe, Chonnonton and Haudenosaunee peoples. This territory is within the lands protected by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum. We acknowledge the enduring presence, knowledge and philosophies of Indigenous Peoples and their continuing accomplishments and contributions that shape our communities. More details at: Land Acknowledgement

Who We Are

Our story is over 40 years in the making. Over that time, we have become one of the largest, most trusted early learning and care providers for families in the Waterloo Region. While we teach more than 1,400 children a day to learn through play, we know your focus is on your child and your family.

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Diversity + Equity + Inclusion = Belonging

At RisingOaks Early Learning, we uphold and maintain a community where families, children, educators and staff feel safe, respected, empowered, and a sense of belonging. With this sense of belonging, everyone can learn, grow, challenge themselves, and bring their perspective.

We respect the many different perspectives and lived experiences within our community. RisingOaks commits to being accountable to our community through reflective practice. Collectively, we strive to continuously challenge the status quo and enhance inclusivity and allyship within our community.

Testimonials                                      

Happy daughter, happy mom. And all thanks to RisingOaks Early Learning staff. RisingOaks is fabulous for our daughter and our family. We refer to it as our daughter's "utopia". The staff are experienced, warm, calm, and creative - adept at fostering emotional, social, and intellectual growth in young children. Love the multitude of crafts and diversity of activities since our daughter is super energetic; and a great indoor space with a playroom. What I love the most is the strong sense of community among the teachers. We don't have a big family but now my daughter has the chance of having one. Parents...
RisingOaks Testimonials
Both of my sons attended RisingOaks Early Learning since 2009, at the St. Nicholas location. The leaders and staff have been part of our family now for 6 years. From the staff, to our favourite cook Janice, to our fearless leader Joanne, my boys will always have wonderful, fond memories of the time they spent there. The childhood educators at RisingOaks have been a "constant" in our often crazy busy lives, and the support and peace of mind that your children are being cared for by kind and educated people has been invaluable. Thank you! XO — Shannon Lester...
RisingOaks Testimonials
Our daughter Rebecca (an active participant since she was 2 years old) has participated in her first Summer Camp experience with the Sr. Camp. I admit that we were particularly nervous as this was our daughter's first experience in a summer camp. I discussed my concerns with the centre supervisor at the beginning of the summer, particularly regarding the field trips that were organized, sometimes "far away" from KW. She reassured me about the camper/teacher ratio and about all the precautions that are taken to ensure the safety of the children. I shared the program with Rebecca, she was very excited to be...
RisingOaks Testimonials
Love getting the monthly Newsletter & updates especially with this busy life of quick drop offs & pick-ups--lol! My son really enjoys his time at the center and looks forward to seeing all his friends and teachers! I've noticed a great advance in his knowledge and developmental skills since attending--Thank you! — Christina Simeonoff...
RisingOaks Testimonials
We feel so lucky to have our daughter attending RIsingOaks Early Learning. The teachers show so much passion, energy and love for these kids that I feel they are an extension of our daughter's family. They have helped shape her development in so many incredible ways. There is truly something special going on at RisingOaks that we haven't seen anywhere else. — Shawn Fogarty...
RisingOaks Testimonials
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OneList: Central Registry and Wait List

OneList is the place where all applications for licensed care in Waterloo Region are submitted. You can also come apply for financial help to pay for child care and /or special needs supports through OneList. Applying is easy.