In a landmark announcement on November 16, the Ontario government revealed a Child Care Workforce Strategy, which aims to bolster the child care workforce, increase wages for Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs), and prioritize the safety of children.
Local Councilor Bill Whetstone of the Municipality of Bluewater, has been actively championing initiatives to address the impact of the lack of childcare in the community. He expressed optimism about the government’s announcement.
One positive element that Councilor Whestone recognized is the substantial increase in wages for RECEs – which will help to attract and retain qualified educators. Councilor Whetstone emphasized the importance of competitive wages, citing his involvement in the establishment of before and after school programming Bayfield community center (to start in the new year), where a similar approach had been taken.
The announcement also outlined measures to enhance the safety of children, including the implementation of a Safe Arrival and Dismissal Policy for all licensed child care operators by January 1.
Another noteworthy aspect of the province’s strategy is the investment in professional development, providing financial support for individuals with six months of experience to pursue an Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma. Councilor Whetstone acknowledged the value of such initiatives in promoting career development within the sector – and identified it as a key area of concern for Bluewater council as well.
While applauding the positive steps, Councilor Whetstone suggested that the strategy could go even further. He proposed considerations for educational reform to ensure efficient training, expanded funding for childcare in underserviced areas, and increased public awareness of the importance of accessible and high-quality childcare.
He said that the role of daycares has shifted from “babysitting” to comprehensive educational programming in the most formative years of a young person’s life.
Bluewater Council has requested a discussion at the upcoming ROMA (Rural Ontario Municipal Association) Conference, related to childcare at both the municipal and provincial levels.
The lack of availability in childcare in the community has become a sticking point in Bluewater – with a letter sent to MPP Lisa Thompson on October 2nd, which has received correspondence from several municipalities, supporting it’s contents.
In summary, the Ontario government’s comprehensive Child Care Workforce Strategy has received positive recognition from local leaders like Councilor Bill Whetstone, reflecting a step toward creating a safer, more accessible, and higher quality childcare system for communities across the province.
Written by: B. Shakyaver