Early Childhood Education Important to the Future of Saskatchewan Children

Released on May 2, 2016

Recognizing the importance of Early Childhood Education to the future of Saskatchewan’s youngest citizens, Education Minister Don Morgan has proclaimed May as Early Childhood Education Month.

“We know through research and practice that quality early learning programs give children a good start in life,” Morgan said.  “When young children are encouraged to learn, play, express their feelings and develop positive relationships, they are more likely to do well in school, go on to hold a job, and be healthy, happy, contributing members of their community.”

With 14,546 licensed child care spaces and 5,056 Prekindergarten spaces available in the province, the Government of Saskatchewan continues with its commitment to provide families with quality early learning opportunities for their children.

Since November 2007, government has made a record investment in licensed child care, allocating funding for 4,935 new child care spaces to communities across the province.  This brings the total commitment of child care spaces in Saskatchewan to more than 14,200.

Saskatchewan Early Childhood Association (SECA) is a non-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to high-quality early learning, in partnership with those invested in the growth and development of children.

“Quality early learning and child care programs help children learn, enable parents to be employed or in school, reduce poverty, support families, contribute to a strong economy and are key to women's equality,” SECA Executive Director Nicole Wendt said.  “Let’s all take some time in May to celebrate the early learning programs and educators of our province."

To make sure that all Saskatchewan children get a good start in life, the Government of Saskatchewan has developed Saskatchewan’s Early Years Plan 2016-2020.  This plan sets out goals and actions for all children to be safe, healthy and develop to their full potential in strong families and supportive communities.

Visit www.saskatchewan.ca to find out more about becoming an Early Childhood Educator, licensed child care centres in your community and about Prekindergarten programs in the province.

Please visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/family-and-social-support/child-care/saskatchewans-early-years-plan for the Saskatchewan Early Years Plan.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Hodges
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: chris.hodges@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506