BC Budget a step in the right direction for early childcare

BC’s Budget is a positive step forward for the Early Childhood Education sector.

That’s according to Lynette Mikalishen, the YMCA of Northern BC’s Director of Childcare Services.

She says the province has been making real steps forward over the last few years.

“It’s great news for BC families, it’s great news for children and childcare providers that the sector is being recognized,” Mikalishen said.

“The need for quality childcare has never been greater and I think the pandemic really has shone a light on that. I think it’s great news for BC in stepping towards a universal childcare program.”

Mikalishen says staffing is one of the biggest issues.

“I think the greatest need right now is for early childhood educators to come to the field so that we can grow and fill spaces,” she said.

“As we do more and the sector is recognized for the important work it does, I think that draws people to the field, and I hope that’s the case.

Mikalishen added that universal childcare is going to take time, planning, learning, and working together throughout the sector.

“It takes time to build childcare spaces, number one, so and then of course staffing and all those other things,” Mikalishen said,

“I think we have two moving targets happening in childcare, we have the creation of spaces, and the building of a sector that can work in those spaces. They’re both moving targets, and the long-term out come will be absolutely that people who need childcare spaces will have access to childcare spaces and the type of childcare that they choose.”

Mikalishen added that anyone interested in joining the sector should reach out to a local college, the YMCA, or the or the childcare resource and referral office in Prince George.

“We’re all here to support people to start a career in this sector and to really help them be successful,” Mikalishen said.

“There’s probably never been a time to become an Early Childhood Educator.”