As the days grow longer and the sun shines a little brighter, summer in New West comes to life with festivals, outdoor gatherings, and neighbourhood celebrations. For families with young children, this season offers more than just good weather—it’s a chance to step outside, meet others, and create lasting memories together. At New Westminster Family Place, we see summer as a unique opportunity to bring our strengths-based, relationship-centered approach out into the community—where families live, play, and grow.
We know that Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) are the foundation for long-term well-being. While much of the conversation around child development has historically focused on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), research is now highlighting the healing and protective power of PCEs. These include:
- Feeling a sense of belonging in their community
- Having safe spaces to play and explore
- Being around adults who care
- Participating in enjoyable family traditions or events
And in New Westminster, summer is full of opportunities to offer exactly that.
At New Westminster Family Place, we work to intentionally create experiences that are open-ended, relationship-rich, and accessible. This means offering warm invitations to connect through art, nature, movement, and play—and making sure that families don’t have to go far or spend money to participate.
In June alone, our team connected with over 720 people through our presence at two major community events:
Queensborough Children’s Festival (June 1) – We welcomed 510 people at our vibrant pop-up space, offering creative play stations, sensory activities, and opportunities for connection between caregivers. While children coloured our castle, played in tunnels and played with lego, parents had a chance to slow down, chat with our Family Support Workers, and feel part of something bigger.
Steel & Oak Brewing’s 11th Anniversary Celebration (June 15) – We served 210 people through an interactive family zone that included curated toys and a relaxed space for connection. It was a reminder that with a little intention, families can be included in all kinds of public life.
We’re excited to keep this momentum going with Fridays on Front Street Festival, where we’ll be running the Kids Zone for three Fridays in July and three in August. This lively, pedestrian-only street party is one of New West’s summer highlights—and our playful zone will offer a welcoming space for families to connect, play, and unwind together.
At every event we attend, we love seeing families feeling comfortable, confident, and social. Parents chat while little ones play. New friendships spark over bubbles or sidewalk chalk. There’s laughter, discovery, and a sense of community.
And while we are so glad you’re here, we do want to gently remind everyone:
Our team is here to support the fun —
but parents and caregivers must stay near.
Please supervise your children while they play.
We’re not a childcare service; we’re a connection point—a place to pause, play, and build relationships. Whether your child makes a new friend or you have a meaningful chat with another caregiver, these little moments matter. They’re how we build positive childhood experiences, right here in our city streets and parks. This summer, come say hi. Whether you stay for ten minutes or an hour, there’s space for you here.
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