Spring has sprung and the month of May is here, and thousands of child-care providers across the province have an extra spring in their step -in celebration of Child Care Month.
Child-care facilities - and the dedicated, highly skilled child-care providers they employ - offer an array of play-based learning activities for babies, toddlers, and children.
Quality child care comes in many different shapes and sizes - ranging from large, bustling group care facilities, to smaller, home-based programs.
The focus of a centre typically reflects the needs of those they serve, for example, centres serving young parents may offer parent-skills training and tips alongside child care, helping to ensure better outcomes for young families.
Communities, individuals, and organizations throughout B.C. have organized events in celebration of Child Care Month, which will be held throughout the province during May. The B.C. government is also recognizing the extraordinary work of child care providers by proclaiming May 19 as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. The annual Child Care Awards of Excellence, honouring B.C. child-care professionals, organizations, and local governments who have demonstrated outstanding service to children and families, will be held May 26 in Vancouver.
"Putting families first is a key priority for this ministry and government as a whole," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development in a news release. "We know that safe, high quality, accessible and affordable child-care is a priority for thousands of B.C. families. As we kick off Child Care Month in B.C., we want to shine the spotlight on child-care providers, who play such an important role in the lives of children and families. Thank you for all that you do, each and every day."
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