Jardin d’Enfants turns 50

The first cohort of children at the Jardin d’Enfants de Sutton played together in 1974. Those children were born at a pivotal moment in Quebec’s history; some of them were amongst the first to be born “for free” under the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec. A sign of Canada’s progress, it was also a topic of conversation among mothers, many of whom had to pay for their children’s birth. Although much has changed in Sutton, and in Quebec, one thing has remained the same – the Jardin d’Enfants de Sutton still provides a warm, welcoming, bilingual environment for preschool-aged children.  

Founders

Originally known as Sutton Nursery School, the organization was launched by a group of forward-thinking mothers: Linda Bresee, Linda Hoyt, Irene Phelps and Nancy Mireault, inspired by Nancy’s idea that their children should socialize with others in a bilingual environment. Though Nancy has since passed away, the bond among the founders endures, with the remaining three regularly reconnecting. Fondly reminiscing about the daycare’s early days, the founders have many memories of the first educator, Ursula, who was employed by the Jardin d’Enfants for 22 years and oversaw dozens of adventures like sugaring off on Linda Bresee’s farm, where the children witnessed the birth of a calf. This connection to nature remains a cornerstone of the Jardin d’Enfants’ educational philosophy. 

One organization, many homes

Throughout its five-decade history, Jardin d’Enfants has called many places home, from the Anglican Church to Sutton Elementary School, and since the mid-1980’s, it’s been housed at the John Sleeth Centre. As it celebrates its golden anniversary, ably directed by educators Christine Booth and Gabriela Asselin, it prepares for another chapter. Recognized as a subsidized daycare by the Ministère de la Famille in 2023, the Jardin d’Enfants is grateful to have the Town’s support in the means of a new location at the Calvary Church on Maple.

Celebrating 50 years in the community

While administrative responsibilities have shifted, the core values of bilingualism and appreciation of nature remain. The nonprofit board of directors has now reoriented as a community organization and continues to serve Sutton’s families. The Board is proud to still count Linda Hoyt who has served the non-profit for 50 years, amongst its members. As the daycare embarks on its new journey, it invites the community to celebrate its history. If you have memories of Jardin d’Enfants, we welcome you to share them on October 3^rd at 4 p.m. to commemorate this milestone. Please email us at gestion.jardin.sutton@gmail.com to be part of our 50^th anniversary celebration.

Lisa Baum