Families deserve our support
Whistler Question
October 23, 2008
By M. Rickli, Whistler

WHISTLER – I feel compelled to write a letter in support of all the families in Whistler with children who struggle on a daily basis to balance their jobs, their relationships and most all their children’s well-being.

My gratitude goes out to Doug Forseth and Intrawest who staved off the closure, for another year, of the much-loved Teddy Bear Daycare. (That also was the only one that opens at 7 a.m.; another art gallery was indeed not necessary).

The other day, a father dropped by my house, where I have run a private daycare for 22 years. He informed me of the closure of the two classes at Spring Creek Daycare. His child would be involved. He and his wife were looking for alternatives.

Here are a few of my ideas:

Any newly built daycares would have employee housing above the school to accommodate four to six teachers. Ski passes would be granted, after signing a binding contract, to commit to stay for a minimum of a year. This would all be sustainable as no bus, car or bike would be necessary to get to work. The staff turnover would be less, and the children could establish bonds with their caregivers. A college in Whistler would offer courses for ECE and IT. The teachers would work at their own pace to get certified. This would be a “win-win” situation!

The children would be tended by less stressed caregivers; they would be enjoying their days of skiing, biking, etc., using their pass that they have earned by dedicating their lives to the future generation, Whistler’s most valuable and precious resource. The biggest and most luxurious spas in resorts like our pale in comparison to a happy, spontaneous, healthy child, playing in the park!

The teachers should all get paid at least $20 per hour so that they can eat well and stay healthy to look after the little ones in their charge.

I hope some resolution results from this ongoing dilemma. Parents must write their MPs and “rally together,” go to Council meetings as a large group to make an impact, get out to vote, ask crucial questions of the candidates who run for Council.

Good luck parents!