Waiting lists tell the story
Cariboo Press -- Salmon Arm Observer
June 13, 2007
Letters : By Karen Bubola, Early Childhood Educator

Child care: Government support needed for 'essential service.'
In response to a letter submitted ... on May 30.

I am offended that you refer to day care as 'baby-sitting' and educators as 'baby-sitters'.

Early childhood educators are educated trained individuals and are professionals. Educators have a college degree and, as well, are required to obtain a specific number of hours each year attending workshops relevant to child development and issues.

Licensed day cares are regulated and inspected regularly by licensing to ensure that they are meeting the high standards of care. I invite you observe at a centre, to see firsthand all the learning that occurs there before you make inaccurate assumptions.

Early childhood educators offer a safe, caring and educational environment for parents to take their children to while they attend school or work.

It has been proven in many studies that children who attend a quality program excel in the school system over children who have had no involvement in a group environment.

Educators are there as a support system for the parents and work with the parents, ensuring that the child's needs are being met, we are not replacing or fulfilling a parent's duties.

Many women choose to have a professional career and should not be criticized for doing so; it is the right of every individual in today's society. Our economy would not survive without the female population working.

Your comment on 'budgeting' is also very insulting to many individuals in the community. Do you realize today's cost of living and how many people are struggling just to make ends meet?

Salmon Arm has many people working, however the majority are not making more than $30,000 a year.

With the recent government cuts, day cares throughout BC have had no choice but to increase their fees.

I attended the recent Childcare Forum and left feeling very frustrated that the government refuses to understand the child care crisis, there are no day care spaces, no funds to create new spaces, as well early childhood educators are leaving the field in record numbers to find work where they can make more money.

Currently in Salmon Arm there are approximately 400 to 500 children on a waitlist for day care.

I have heard stories from local business owners who are having difficulties hiring qualified employees because they cannot find child care for their children.

Hopefully the government will start to listen to the thousands of parents who cannot find quality day care and soon realize the importance that childcare plays in our economy. Child care is an essential service and it is time that the government accepts this and will put the dollars back into the field.