The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has announced it will modernize its Special Needs Resourcing (SNR) model in licensed child care, a move that will end its service contract with Linck Child, Youth and Family Supports and impact 39 positions at the agency.
As the provincially mandated children’s services system manager, the Municipality said it is transitioning to a new, responsive and inclusive service model focused on educator capacity building, family engagement and inclusive classroom environments. The transition is expected to take place in mid-April.
Municipal officials said the change will align Chatham-Kent’s approach with other municipalities across Ontario and adapt supports to changes in the child care sector over the past several years.
The new model will continue to focus on inclusion in the classroom while strengthening education and capacity-building components. It introduces three new elements aimed at strengthening the SNR system.
Inclusion coaches will be hired to work directly within child care programs alongside educators and supervisors, providing mentorship, observation and practical strategies to support inclusive environments without the need for referrals.
When additional supports are required, child care operators will receive funding directly to increase adult-to-child ratios and access necessary resources. In rare and complex cases, further specialized supports, including external professionals or one-to-one assistance, may be coordinated through the child care operator.
Under the recommended model, licensed child care operators will be funded directly to provide enhanced support services, including additional staff for children with special needs. The Municipality’s Child Care and Early Years division will work directly with operators to support educators through coaching, professional learning and other capacity-building activities.
Municipal officials said the current SNR model was created with positive intent but is no longer able to meet growing and emerging challenges in the sector. They cited significant changes following the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care program as contributing factors.
The Municipality acknowledged the work of Linck staff in supporting children and families in Chatham-Kent. As part of the transition, Linck will see a reduction of 24 full-time, six contract and nine casual positions. Affected staff are being offered supports through the Municipality’s CK Jobs program, along with assistance navigating new positions created under the updated model.
The Municipality said it is working with Linck to ensure existing service levels are maintained during the transition and carried forward into the new model. Parents and caregivers with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Child Care and Early Years division at 1-866-720-7975 or by email at ccey@chatham-kent.ca. Staff will respond and arrange a time to discuss questions directly.
