Step By Step Child Development Society is a small non-profit agency that offers a variety of services to children and their families, with a special interest in children having special needs. It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of local professionals and parents. Step-by-Step programs are co-ordinated by an Executive Director and a Coordinator of Child Care Programs. The society provides families with access to highly qualified staff, and excellent child/staff ratio in the learning centres and therapeutic intervention programs.

Families who participate in Step-by-Step programs come from all walks of life. All value the inclusive atmosphere, high quality of programming, and the focus on the well-being of each individual child and their family as well as ensuring the participation of all children in the day-to-day joys of childhood. Step-by-Step is funded by user-fees, donations and grants from charitable foundations and various levels of government.

History

Step By Step Child Development Society was founded in 1979 by a dedicated group of volunteers. In August 1981 Step by Step was registered as a non-profit organization to provide services for preschool aged children who had one or more medical needs, behaviour challenges or were at were at risk for developmental delay due to socio-economic or other environmental issues. Its mission was to provide opportunities for children with special needs and their families to realize their abilities and reach their potential through therapy, education and support.

The Society pioneered inclusive education with a preschool program at Harbour Elementary where special and typical needs children could learn and play side by side. It went on to provide a variety of other resources to families with special needs including an equipment loan cupboard, parent resource materials, therapeutic services and much more. Over the years the mandate has changed, however Step By Step continues to focus on services and support for children and families who might not otherwise be served.