College responds to release of “Ontario’s Renewed Early Years and Child Care Policy Framework”

The College of Early Childhood Educators supports the Ministry of Education’s vision as articulated in “Ontario’s Renewed Early Years and Child Care Policy Framework“, released today.

Registered early childhood educators (RECEs) play a critical role in ensuring high quality early years programs and services are delivered to children and families across Ontario. The government’s focus on relationships, inclusion, continuous professional learning and leadership reflect the ethical and professional standards of the profession.

The profession’s Code of Ethics states that RECEs “value the rights of children and create learning environments where all children can experience a sense of belonging and inclusion”. The Standards of Practice provide that RECEs are reflective and intentional professionals who engage in continuous professional learning and that all RECEs, regardless of position or title, are leaders.

The College’s mandate is to protect the public interest and we are eager to collaborate with government on determining a provincial definition of quality and the development of an early years workforce strategy. Ensuring there are enough RECEs to meet the demands of expanding early years programs will contribute to a high quality early years and child care system.

The College is also eager to work with the Ministry of Education to increase public awareness of the range of early years programs and services and the positive impacts that these programs, delivered by qualified and accountable professionals, has on children’s development and well-being.

The College welcomes the government’s vision and we look forward to working together in the days ahead.