Banff Rundle Playschool & Pre-Kindergarten is a non-profit, parent-run early childhood education program serving the Banff community for more than 40 years. Its mission is to help three- and four-year-old children learn through play in a safe, trusting, and welcoming environment. A soft-structured program guides children through activities and experiences while recognizing each child’s need for attention, acceptance, and care.

The playschool supports kindergarten readiness and children’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development. Its goals include building positive self-concept, encouraging relationships and communication, strengthening language and thinking skills, and developing gross, fine, and perceptual motor abilities. Children also have opportunities to explore Banff through outdoor experiences and field trips, while practising sharing and cooperation.

The program works with Foothills Creative Beginnings to provide eligible children aged three to five with screening and support from occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, and behavioural therapists. These services are free, and the partnership also funds educational assistants who work with students during school hours.