Welcome to Family Day!
My warmest welcome to you! Whether you’re new to Family Day or your family is returning for another year, we are so pleased to have you with us for 2022/23. We look forward to meeting and connecting with you.
We are also incredibly pleased to share that Family Day has opted in to the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system (CWELCC). This system will:
- give families access to more affordable and high-quality child care options
- help lower child care fees for parents of children under the age of six
- increase child care spaces
- support the child care workforce
- support inclusive child care
Parents or guardians of children under the age of six do not have to apply to receive a child care fee reduction.
In May, it was my privilege to attend the World Forum on Early Care and Education, an on-going global exchange on the delivery of quality services for young children in diverse settings. The World Forum Foundation is committed to improving the lives of children throughout the world by connecting, informing and inspiring the early childhood professionals who support their growth and development.
I found this Forum timely and relevant. Our children need early childhood leaders who are effective change agents for quality early childhood development. That being said, these past two years have certainly been challenging for the childcare and education sectors. While many children, students and families are likely eager to return to a “more normal” fall routine, it’s only natural that some may be feeling uncertain about what the end of summer holds.
Even as society opens up, we must keep in mind that each child will approach this new season with feelings ranging from excitement to nervousness to worried to anxious— and everything in between.
Throughout the pandemic, many families have experienced financial, employment, social and health challenges, significant disruptions and profound loss. Some have also witnessed inequities, systemic prejudice and racism in these unprecedented times. However, your child may be feeling, it’s a natural reaction to their own personal and family stresses. While not all stress can be avoided, having some practical coping tools can bolster resilience and mental health. In our Fall ‘Welcome Back’ edition of FOCUS, we offer some essential expert advice to support a mentally healthy Fall/Winter routine. Here’s to a smooth transition for everyone. And always remember: you know your child best!
Diane Daley, CEO | September 15, 2022
