Kindergarten idea a big commitment
Vancouver Island News Group - Nanaimo News Bulletin
01 Aug 2008
Opinion by: Dot Neary, Nanaimo

To the Editor,

Re: Consultation period extended on early, full-day kindergarten, July 26

Many working parents of three to five year olds for whom the chronic shortage and cost of quality day care is problematic, might view the government's idea for full-day kindergarten and pre-kindergarten as the answer to their prayers.

Even though the consultation paper, a scant document devoid of logistical details of the practicability of the proposal, promotes the programs as a vehicle for early learning rather than a childcare system.

Many parents understand, and research shows, the long-term health and development of our children depends upon experiencing quality care and developmentally appropriate activities in a positive, nurturing and safe environment.

This was recognized by the provincial government when it committed to increase investment "to further promote early childhood development and support the participation of parents in employment and training by improving access to affordable, quality early learning and childcare programs and services."

And yet, over the past seven years, the number of subsidized childcare spaces in B.C. has decreased and the high cost of day care makes it prohibitive for many parents.

Particularly low income earners who are often forced to quit work and stay home, thereby perpetuating a cycle of poverty and vulnerability.

Carol Webber, executive director of the Nanaimo Child Development Centre, says that the number of infants to five-year-old children waiting for developmental assistance outweighs the CDC's capacity to deliver the service before they 'age-out' to attend school….

The cynic in me can't help wondering whether this is a genuine attempt to redress shortfalls in the social safety net for young children and their families by investing in positive social development and reform, or simply well timed, pre-election posturing?