As caregivers plan for their desired lifestyle and their children’s future, they seek child care that is safe, nurturing, and sparks a passion for learning in their little ones.
They entrust Early Childhood Educators with the vital task of nurturing their most precious treasures, creating an environment where children can thrive with engaging learning activities, a sense of belonging and care for their well-being, and meaningful outlets for self-expression.
However, despite the critical role these educators play, there is a significant workforce shortage, making it challenging for parents and centres alike.
According to the Early Childhood Workforce Report (2022):
– Employment in child care dropped 21% during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to 3% among other workers
– 62% of child care centre operators in Canada had to recruit staff in the last two years
– 82% had difficulty hiring staff with the necessary qualifications, and
– 6% had unfilled staff vacancies lasting over four months
These statistics paint a clear picture of the challenges facing childcare, and early childhood education centers in recruiting and training Early Childhood Educators, particularly in the aftermath of COVID-19.
From the heart of Ontario, partners from eight communities united to answer this need using the power of storytelling and Edge Factor’s widely used platform in schools across the province.
The Edge Factor film crew captured inspiring media with Early Childhood Educators in action, sharing their career journey insights and skills in Chatham-Kent, Lambton County, Muskoka, and Simcoe County.
The featured Early Childhood Educators spanned many diverse careers and roles at SEEDS Childcare, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, WJ Baird, Early ON Chatham-Kent and Muskoka Family Focus.
In the month of February, grade 3 -12+ students are invited to create a free Edge Factor account to access all of these career stories and earn a digital badge for their chance to win a GoPro Hero 10! It’s a fun, and interactive way to get students excited about their potential future in Early Childhood Education!
“Early Childhood Educators hold a uniquely impactful role in our communities,” said Larissa Hofman, Vice President of Edge Factor, in a media release.
“They do more than care for our youngest citizens; they shape the minds and hearts of the next generation, laying the foundations of learning, character, and curiosity that propel children toward a lifetime of success.”
Special thank you to the eight community partners that were part of this project:
Municipality of Chatham Kent, County of Simcoe, The District Municipality of Muskoka, The County of Lambton, City of Cornwall, County of Lennox & Addington, City of Greater Sudbury , United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, with help in project coordination Millennial Strategist.
