General Information
The Family Resource Centre provides FREE programs and services to all parents and caregivers of children prenatal to age 5 in Saskatoon.
Play Spaces
We Have:
A drop-in play and learn space
Programming space
Early years health Visiting Professionals
Staff trained in early childhood development
Space for networking and workshops
We Offer:
Parent and child play-together programs
Parent and child music and literacy programs
Parent education programs
Programs and information sessions facilitated by health care professionals
Information about other parenting supports and child development programs in the community
All programs are FREE unless otherwise stated.
SEYFRC West Team
(YMCA of Saskatoon Staff)
Oluwole Falode
Centre Coordinator
Oluwole Falode is a globally recognized expert in early childhood education and instructional design, with over 14 years of experience in teaching, training, supervising early childhood educator candidates, and conducting educational research. He brings a deep understanding of children's developmental and learning processes, integrating developmental theories, instructional design models, and adult learning principles to create responsive programmes for both children and caregivers.
Oluwole has made significant contributions to academia, having served as a faculty member at universities and polytechnics. He has authored over sixty peer-reviewed articles focusing on children’s play, developmental growth, learning improvement, and interactive instruction. His research has garnered more than 1,000 scholarly citations, reflecting his influence in the field of education.
With professional experience across several countries, Oluwole brings a rich, global perspective to early learning practice. His international background culminated in his current role as Coordinator at the Saskatoon Early Years Family Resource Centre.
He holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in education. Oluwole is excited to be part of our centre and looks forward to connecting with staff and families in meaningful ways.
Areej Manzoor
Program Facilitator
Areej holds a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Saskatchewan and a Bachelor’s degree in Science Education. She is certified as an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Level 1 and has completed several credit units toward Levels 2 and 3, with only 12 credit units remaining for Level 2. She looks forward to receiving her ECE Level 2 certification.
Areej began her career as an Educational Assistant and was soon promoted to teacher and program leader roles. With several years of experience in child care, she is excited to be part of the YMCA. She brings a strong passion for early learning and is committed to creating a positive, enriching environment for children and families.
Her goal is to support each family member’s growth while contributing to the community. Areej believes in teamwork, creativity, and communication to ensure every experience is both fun and educational.
“Let’s be on this journey together and make the most of our time as a YMCA family!”
Elham Shahbazi
Program Facilitator
Elham is a dedicated educator with a strong background in science and a passion for environmental stewardship. She spent ten years teaching science in Iran, where she encouraged critical thinking, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the world.
She has completed her Early Childhood Education (ECE) Level 1 at Sask Polytech and plans to continue with Levels 2 and 3. Elham also holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Sustainability from the University of Saskatchewan, which she uses to create engaging, play-based and nature-focused learning experiences that support children’s development, creativity, and confidence.
Elham is a proud mother of two boys and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. She is excited to be part of the Centre and looks forward to nurturing children’s growth while building strong, positive relationships with families.
Munazza Jahan
Casual Program Facilitator
Munazza started at our centre as a volunteer and was recently hired as a part-time program facilitator. She is currently in her first year pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts and Science program in Health Studies. Munazza enjoyed her part as a volunteer as each day her day was filled with new experiences/adventures and knowing that she was part of a great service to the community, brought her instant gratification. She believes the Saskatoon Family Centre is an exceptional service centre to families and children by as it promotes play, delivering program and offering resources to enhance their lives. She looks forward to fulfilling her role, learning from several opportunities and seeing those smiling faces on children faces!
SEYFRC West Program Designer & Visiting Professionals
Andrea Gelsinger
Program Designer
Andy has worked in the early childhood education space for over a decade in many capacities; as a one-to-one EA for children with exceptionalities, as an ECE, as well as a certified classroom teacher Pre-K – Grade 12. Andy graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 2019, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education, specializing in early childhood education (Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 4). Immediately following university, Andy began working with the Saskatchewan Health Authority – Regional KidsFirst as a Community Developer, and then as a Family Outreach Coordinator with Targeted KidsFirst Saskatoon, marking the start of Andy’s work with the Saskatoon Early Years Family Resource Centres. Andy has been working in her dream job, as a SEYFRC Program Designer since October 2023. She is particularly interested in play-based learning, as well as increasing access to health and education services for Saskatoon families.
Crystal Springer
Early Childhood Psychologist
Supports early childhood behavioural and developmental concernsKeri Whitehead
Autism Navigator
Provides support, information, and answers questions related to autismErin Hantke and Janelle Holstein
Speech and Language Pathologists
Support with speech delay, pronunciation, following directions, and voice concerns
(Also offer hearing screenings and referrals to developmental professionals)Jessica Chi
Occupational Therapist (OT)
Supports fine motor skills, sensory needs, coordination, and self help routines to help children participate more independently in daily activitiesJessica Braun / Robyn Lange
Early Childhood Nutritionists
Support children’s nutrition and growth related concernsImmunization and Fluoride Clinic Team
Offers immunizations, flu shots, COVID vaccines, and fluoride varnish treatmentsBeth, Megan, and Tammy
Social Work Case Managers at Children’s Mental Health Services
Support children’s mental health, caregiver support, coping strategies, relationship building, and access to essential mental health and community servicesEmily Gushulak
Monday Movement with DeveloPT
Supports gross motor development, strength, coordination, and movement confidence
(Free screenings available, along with guidance and referrals to pediatric physical therapy supports)Pam Beaudry
Early Learning Intensive Supports Consultant
Provides Pre Kindergarten support, guidance for families, and information on intensive supports and inclusive early learning programs in Saskatoon Public SchoolsBrett Williams
Director of Program Service Delivery at LDAS
Supports early learning and development, learning disability support, guidance for families of children aged 0 to 5, and information on available services and resources