Our History
TOPP KIDS Out of School Clubs was founded as a before and after school program in
2010 as a project of passion for its founder Leslie Topp.
Having worked in Early Learning & Childcare for over 25 years, Leslie experienced firsthand
the incredible effect of early academic exposure and the power of play, imagination and
natural exploration in young children.
In the years that followed, she worked to modify her own child developmental approach,
one that would not impose on the child’s natural desire to explore, play, and learn by
experimenting with the environment. She then came up with her Play, Grow, Laugh &
Learn model.
Our unique approach to care focuses on providing safe, engaging, fun programs for children
that are convenient and accessible for all families while building connections within
communities.
In 2012, Leslie had unfortunately been diagnosed with Lupus and her son Cody stepped in to continue building her dream.
Cody’s focus has always been the growth and development of the brand and his teams, innovating new ideas and has been the driving force behind the group. He started by developing our systems and high standards ensuring our Accredited status was obtained and quality goals were exceeded. Soon after, he moved to expand the number of locations and types of programs provided as well as building our “Family” run feel.
His involvement within the community and the global Early Learning Care landscape has escalated TOPP KIDS into becoming a leading care provider and is now nationally recognized. Cody currently sits as the Chair of the School Age Care Directors Association of Alberta, Chair and host of the annual Alberta School Age Care Conference, and Founder and Chair of the Lights on Afterschool Alberta movement. He also now sits on a number of additional child care advocacy groups across Alberta and Nationwide.
Cody’s passion for growth and development has now led him to create a way to better share resources across the Early Learning Care industry – opening the ELCC & CommunityDevelopment Education Centre and creating ourfirstNon-Profit arm -The TOPP KIDS Foundation.
TOPP KIDS has had great success in serving hundreds of families, surpassing our founder’s goals and continuing tomake an impact in Alberta’s communities.