Honouring Early Childhood Educators

Did you know May is Child Care month?

Although Canada lags well behind other developed nations in it’s support of young families, the federal government’s most recent budget committed to the creation of a universal child care system, something advocates have been requesting for 51 years!  British Columbia’s provincial government is also committed to supporting children and families with programs such as the Affordable Child Care Benefit, the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative, and the opening of many new child care spaces. While these initiatives are needed and appreciated, all early learning programs – whether preschool or daycare – are only possible due to the passion, energy and commitment of Early Childhood Educators.

Early Childhood Educators in British Columbia are licensed and regulated. They must complete a one year College certificate or a two year diploma program to receive ‘Infant/Toddler’ or ‘Special Needs’ certification. ECE’s also attend a minimum of eight hours professional development annually. Many Early Childhood Educators hold four year university degrees in ECE or related fields, although this additional education does not increase their wage. The average wage for Early Childhood Educators in British Columbia is $20/hr, which is why the province has implemented a Wage Enhancement program of $2/hour. However, even with this wage subsidy, Early Childhood Educators are paid significantly less than other professionals who work with children, such as public school teachers. Early Childhood Education is a ‘pink collar’ career, with a workforce that is 98% female! Due to low wages and burnout, the turnover rate for Early Childhood Educators is very high, with the majority leaving the profession within 5 years.

We are thankful to all who embrace the incredible responsibilities of loving and caring for children.  We are especially proud of the Early Childhood Educators at Terra Nova Nature School: Berta, Emily, Kate, Katharina, Misuzu, Penny, Rianna, and Tricia, whose dedication, playfulness, love, and hard work is evident every day, throughout the seasons, and whatever the weather. THANK YOU!