Real Estate Blog

Relocating to a new city is a big step — especially with kids in the mix. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or a fresh start, Saskatoon is a welcoming place to call home. Known as the “Paris of the Prairies,” Saskatoon blends small-city friendliness with big-city amenities. If you’re planning your move, here’s what you should know about sporting programs, schools, daycare, and neighbourhoods.

Sports & Recreation: Keeping the Whole Family Active

Saskatoon takes recreation seriously — from hockey to pickleball, there’s something for everyone.

• City Leisure Centres: Six indoor leisure centres across Saskatoon feature swimming pools, gyms, skating rinks, and drop-in classes.
• Community Association Programs: Each neighbourhood runs its own programs — youth soccer, dance, badminton, yoga, and more.
• Organized Sports Leagues: Kids can join grassroots hockey or soccer, while parents enjoy adult leagues like the Saskatoon Rec League.
• Unique Options: Paddleboarding on the South Saskatchewan River, cross-country skiing at Kinsmen Park, or skating the Meewasin outdoor trails in winter.

???? Tip: Program registration fills quickly — set reminders when seasonal schedules open.

Education: A Strong Start from Kindergarten to High School

Families relocating to Saskatoon will find plenty of school options.

• Public Schools: Saskatoon Public Schools (SPS) is the largest division with French immersion, fine arts, and advanced learning programs.
• Catholic Schools: Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS) offers faith-based education from Pre-K through Grade 12.
• Independent & French Schools: Options include Saskatoon Christian School and the francophone Conseil des écoles fransaskoises.
• Newcomer Support: Both SPS and GSCS run Newcomer Student Centres that guide families new to Canada through registration.

???? Tip: Register early in summer to ensure a smooth September start. Children turning five by December 31 are eligible for Kindergarten that year.

Licensed Child Care Providers in Saskatoon

Finding the right child care can be the toughest part of relocating. Saskatoon has a strong network of licensed, government-regulated providers that meet provincial standards for safety and learning.

Here are some examples:

• YWCA Saskatoon Child Development Centre – Licensed care for infants to preschoolers in the city core.
• Oak Trees & Acorns Child Care Centre – Offers government-subsidized spaces for multiple age groups.
• BGC Saskatoon Early Learning Centres (Evergreen & Avalon) – Infant to 6 years, part of the Boys & Girls Clubs network.
• USSU Child Care Centre (University of Saskatchewan) – On-campus daycare for infants to Kindergarten.
• Saskatoon Early Childhood Education Demonstration Centre – Operated with Sask Polytech, supports both families and ECE training.
• Spadina Early Learning & Childcare Co-op – Licensed co-op with infant, toddler, and preschool programs.
• Westgate Heights Early Learning Centre – Multiple locations with infant and toddler care.
• Friends Together Child Care Co-op – Licensed program for toddlers to school-aged children.

How to Put Your Child’s Name on the List

Licensed child care spots are in high demand, so it’s important to act early:

1. Search the Saskatchewan Government Directory
   
• Use the Find a Child Care Provider tool to locate licensed centres and homes in Saskatoon.
• You can filter by location, age group, and type of care.
3. Contact Centres Directly
   
• Most facilities maintain their own waitlists. Some require a registration fee (often $20–$50).
5. Apply to Multiple Centres
   
• Because spots are limited — especially for infants — families often place their child’s name on several lists.
7. Confirm Subsidy Eligibility
   
• Saskatchewan offers subsidies for licensed daycare spaces based on family income.
9. Plan Ahead
   
• Many families apply for child care as soon as they know they’re moving. Infant spaces in particular may have wait times of 12+ months.

???? Pro Tip: Don’t be discouraged by long waitlists. Families often withdraw when circumstances change, so spaces do open up. Staying in touch with the centre can make a difference.

Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Saskatoon

When relocating, choosing the right neighbourhood is just as important as schools and daycare. Here are a few of Saskatoon’s most family-oriented areas:

???? Evergreen

• Why families love it: A newer neighbourhood with modern homes, walking trails, and quick access to schools.
• Schools: Sylvia Fedoruk School (public) and St. Nicholas Catholic School.
• Child Care: BGC Early Learning Centre located right in the community.
• Recreation: Lots of green space and close to Forestry Farm Park & Zoo.

???? Stonebridge

• Why families love it: Large, growing community with a mix of housing styles and plenty of shopping and amenities.
• Schools: Chief Whitecap School (public) and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School.
• Child Care: Several licensed centres and home daycares; YMCA Before & After School programs available.
• Recreation: Parks, ponds, and proximity to Circle Drive for commuting.

???? Lawson Heights

• Why families love it: Mature neighbourhood with affordable homes and quick river access.
• Schools: Lawson Heights School (public) and St. George Catholic School.
• Child Care: Licensed centres nearby, plus YMCA programs.
• Recreation: Lawson Civic Centre offers swimming, a wave pool, and fitness classes.

???? Willowgrove

• Why families love it: Safe, quiet streets with family-sized homes.
• Schools: Willowgrove School (public) and Holy Family Catholic School.
• Child Care: Licensed daycare centres within walking distance.
• Recreation: Neighbourhood parks, soccer fields, and close to University Heights shopping.

???? Nutana / Varsity View (near University)

• Why families love it: Character homes, walkability, and access to the U of S campus.
• Schools: Brunskill School (public) and École Victoria (French immersion).
• Child Care: USSU Child Care Centre (on campus) and multiple home-based options.
• Recreation: Meewasin Valley trails and easy access to downtown festivals.

Why Families Love Saskatoon

Beyond logistics, families choose Saskatoon for its safe neighbourhoods, affordable housing, and strong sense of community. The city boasts:

• A vibrant arts and culture scene (Folkfest, Jazz Festival, winter festivals).
• Easy access to nature with river valley trails, playgrounds, and over 200 parks.
• A growing job market and family-friendly cost of living compared to larger Canadian cities.

If you have any questions about relocating to Saskatoon with your family, message Bird Realty. 

Jill Bird 

RE/MAX Saskatoon 

306-221-1350

Cam Bird 

RE/MAX Saskatoon

306-221-0654

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