As fall settles in across Portage la Prairie, the Family Resource Centre is ramping up its programming to meet the needs of local families. Peter Thiessen, Program Director, shared the details of what's ahead during an interview about their October calendar.
“Once it starts cooling down a bit, we'll definitely see our attendance increase. People are looking for things to do with their young kids. A lot of these fall programs are going to carry on until about May. We have a busy schedule pretty much every day. We've got something going on for all different age groups.”
The Centre offers a wide range of programs, from baby classes like Healthy Baby, and Babies and Babble, to toddler and preschool activities. Thiessen highlighted Wiggle, Giggle, and Munch, a class he describes as “a Phys. Ed. class for preschoolers.” Another program, Grand Pals, pairs children with senior residents at Dufferin Villa for an intergenerational experience.
For those living outside of Portage, the Centre has expanded some of its services. In Austin, families with young children can join the Stay and Play group, which meets twice a month at Austin Elementary.
As for older children, before-and-after school programs are available, though Thiessen noted many of these are already full. He also flagged an upcoming babysitting course on October 25, which is open to youth aged 11 and up.
“It is a very popular program," Thiessen shared. "It is a PD Day, so you don't have to skip school to go. The cost is $25, which just basically covers the cost of the book. It's a really good resource, it's a good day of training for important skills.”
Thiessen also spoke about several programs aimed at supporting families and caregivers. On October 19, the Centre will host Super Dad Super Kids, a Saturday morning program that offers father figures a chance to connect with their kids. Later that day, they host FAN Portage, a local chapter of the Family Advocacy Network, to provide a support meeting for caregivers of people with disabilities.
Looking ahead, Thiessen teased a few other events, including their involvement in the Portage la Prairie Regional Library’s trick-or-treat event on October 26. He also encouraged interested individuals to reach out, as they are preparing a Learn to Skate program set for early 2025.