Region releases new Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham has released a new Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan to support families, and the early learning and child care community in Durham region, into 2027.

Developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Education’s priorities, the new plan identifies key priorities that will help strengthen our region’s existing high-quality licensed child care system—a testament to the success of existing community partnerships.

The priorities of this new Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan include:

1. Supporting expansion and access to child care: Strengthening access and inclusion to the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system; building capacity within the licensed home child care sector; and leveraging funding opportunities to expand support programs and services.
2. Enhancing supportive and inclusive child care: Providing mental health and well-being supports for early learning and child care staff; bolstering diverse, equitable and inclusive practices; strengthening strategies to support children with special needs; and improving wraparound services for children and families.
3. Increasing, attracting and retaining qualified Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECE): Implementing robust workforce strategies; promoting RECE as a profession; and supporting pathways to becoming a RECE.
4. Optimizing virtual service delivery and technology: Enhancing virtual service delivery; and leveraging technology to promote communication and collaboration.

Visit durham.ca/ChildrensServices to learn more.

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Quote:

“The hard work and dedication of the early learning and child care community, and its partners, shines across Durham Region. The Region’s Children’s Services Division takes great pride in its commitment to supporting children and families, and the early learning community— the Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan reflects that commitment. The key priorities identified in this plan will strengthen our system to ensure it is accessible, affordable, high-quality and responsive to the needs of our growing community.”

- Julie Gaskin, Director of Children’s Services for The Regional Municipality of Durham.

Quick facts

• The Region of Durham serves as the Consolidated Municipal Services Manager for Durham region. As such, the Region of Durham is responsible for co-ordinating the local early learning and child care system.

Media inquiries:
For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.