To The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND — Haldimand-Norfolk’s Children’s Services is partnering with all 47 of Ontario’s Early Years and childcare service system managers to launch a province-wide marketing campaign aimed at generating an increased understanding of, and support for, Ontario’s licensed childcare sector.
The goal of the campaign, which will run through 2023, is to increase public awareness and provide key facts to ensure the province can maintain a stable early education system that is equitably available, accessible, and affordable.
“High-quality licensed childcare and qualified early childhood professionals are vital to the economic growth and success of Haldimand County and Norfolk County,” said Stephanie Rice, Acting Director of Haldimand-Norfolk Social Services and Housing.
She added, “This important sector provides opportunities for parents in the workforce while also improving outcomes for children in academic learning and socio-emotional wellbeing.”
Quality childcare supports the economy
COVID-19 highlighted childcare as an essential service that enabled emergency services to continue. Quality licensed childcare will continue to play an important role in helping families and the economy rebound from the impacts of COVID-19.
Quality childcare is important for a child’s development and future success
High-quality licensed childcare provides Ontario’s children with safe, responsive, and caring interactions that help them develop vital skills, build a strong foundation for their wellbeing and continued development, and grow into healthy and productive adults.
Early Childhood Educators are essential for quality childcare
Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) are trained professionals with expertise in child development who are a key element of quality childcare. These professionals must be recognized, valued, and fairly compensated for their role in the lives of children, families, and communities.
All communities need qualified and engaged Registered Early Childhood Educators to perform and deliver childcare’s evidence-based early learning and childcare benefits.
“It is our hope that this campaign will generate public awareness of this sector and acknowledge its professionals for the value they bring to the lives of children and families through the work they do,” concluded Rice.
