Baby Steps Early Learning Centre: Where Our Dreams Come True


From as early as I can remember, I always knew my purpose: to teach and inspire. My name is Tracey Urquhart, and with over 30 years of experience in the field of early childhood education, I can confidently say that this journey has been both fulfilling and transformative.

I hold a master's degree in Early Childhood Education and Neurological Psychology, alongside an honours degree in Remediation and School Management—qualifications that have underpinned my passion for helping children thrive in their developmental years. The moment I stepped into my Grade 1 class as a little girl, I knew that this is what I want to be apart of or the rest of my life.

However, despite my clear vision for my career, life presented me with challenges that I never anticipated. In 2012, my family was thrust into a period of intense upheaval. I found myself in an incredibly difficult situation, having to face the world alone with my three children.

It was a time of profound struggle—emotionally, financially, and personally—but in retrospect, it became the crucible from which my greatest lessons emerged. It was my children, their unwavering resilience, and the strength they unknowingly gave me, that allowed me to see beyond the adversity.
In those difficult years, I rediscovered not just my love for teaching, but a deeper understanding of my purpose. Teaching alone wasn’t enough. I knew I had to create something that would empower not only my children but countless others. Something that would represent growth, strength, and the power of perseverance. Baby Steps Early Learning Centre was born from this realization. It wasn’t just an early learning center—it was a symbol of resilience and determination, not just for me, but for everyone who became part of its journey.

Empowering women became a key pillar of my life’s work. With absolutely nothing but determination, I pressed forward, furthered my education, and embarked on the monumental task of building something not just for my children, but for a community of children and families.
 
The woman I am today emerged from those challenges as someone who understands the depth of perseverance and the power of self-belief. At Baby Steps, we strongly advocate for women’s empowerment. Women are capable of achieving incredible things, and we must believe in our strength. We are God’s most remarkable creation, endowed with resilience, intelligence, and the capacity for boundless love.

Over the years, I was blessed to find love again. My husband, Selwyn Urquhart, came into my life, bringing with him his two sons, expanding our family into a blended, joyful unit.

Together, we continued to build Baby Steps and raise our children in an environment of love, support, and shared values. But life had more in store for us. In 2023, a special boy entered our lives, piercing my heart in a way I hadn’t expected.
He brought a light and joy that I didn’t realize was missing. His presence completed us in ways we hadn’t imagined. In 2024, we joyfully adopted this incredible boy, adding yet another layer of love and completeness to our now family of 8.

To every woman out there, I want you to know: adversity may feel insurmountable, but it is often through our greatest struggles that we find our true strength. We are capable of more than we give ourselves credit for. Whether it’s raising children, pursuing a career, or building something from the ground up, we hold the power to shape our destiny. Empowerment begins with the belief that we are enough—that we can rise, lead, and create futures we can be proud of. Let your challenges fuel your passion, and remember, you are stronger than you know.

Empowered women, empowering tomorrows leaders!