The B.C. government brought forth new legislation to strengthen child care in the province. The Early Learning and Child Care Act (ELCC Act) coupled with the Early Childhood Educators Act (ECE Act) hopes to provide better and more inclusive child care options for B.C. families and more recognition for those getting into the ECE field.
“The news today reflects a firm government commitment to early childhood development and recognizes the value of the Early Childhood Educator workforce. I know that the pioneers of childcare in Vancouver would be proud to see their hard work finally become mainstream,” says DDA Executive Director Alanna Hendren.
The ECE Act is designed to help strengthen the sector as a stand-alone, and more recognized employment stream. To that end, the government says it will also allow those who have received training outside of Canada to receive temporary certification to help address the need for ECEs in the province.
The NDP government is looking to further enhance the new legislation with input from a variety of stakeholders including the child care sector, families, First Nations leaders and Indigenous partners.
“I encourage everyone who has an interest in childcare to contribute to child care consultations as they unfold, especially parents of infants and toddlers with special needs,” adds Hendren.
Developmental Disabilities Association operates nine inclusive Child Development Centres in Vancouver and Richmond. For more information go here.
