“We are supporting nurturing child care environments where children can thrive”

Ontario Increases Wages for Early Childhood Educators

“Parents deserve the peace of mind of knowing their children are in good hands. By investing in early childhood educators, we are supporting nurturing child care environments where children can thrive.,”said Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario while annoucing
that the Ontario government is increasing wages for early childhood educators and front-line child care professionals in licensed child care settings.

The Premiers announcement was echoed by several Minsters and MPP’s in their corresponding municipalities. In the Region of Peel, MPP Harinder Malhi visited with staff at the Peekaboo Child Care Centre. Starting this month, Ontario is implementing a wage increase of $1 per hourfor eligible child care workers in the licensed child care sector. Another wage increase is set for next year. “The role of early childhood educators and front-line staff in the development of our children is crucial. This wage increase recognizes there dedication, and helps to close the gap between staff in the publicly funded system and that of the licensed child care sector,” said Harinder Malhi, MPP Brampton-Springdale

The increase will help close the wage gap between registered early childhood educators working in full-day kindergarten programs and child care professionals in licensed child care settings. Ontario’s investment to increase wages also supports efforts to recruit and retain highly qualified and talented educators, and supports parents in accessing safe and reliable care for their children. Supporting families in accessing safe, modern child care is part of the government’s economic plan for Ontario. The four-part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people’s talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives and building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.