York regional council has approved the 2024 to 2027 child care and early years service system plan, which sets priorities and guides the work of the region and other organizations supporting children from birth to age 12 and their families.
According to a Regional Municipality of York news release, the 2024 to 2027 child care and early years service system plan will:
- Help provide consistent direction to the delivery of children’s services;
- Enhance York Region’s collaboration with service providers to maintain and expand the child care and early years sector so all children feel a sense of belonging and can fully participate in programming;
- Support the region and service providers in adapting to changes required to ensure services are accessible, high-quality and welcoming to all children and families.
In 2023, approximately 73,000 children and their families benefited from programs and services provided by or contracted through York Region.
Services are delivered through a network of not-for-profit, private agencies and other partners. In addition to the region’s role in managing funding, program eligibility and service planning, the region directly delivers programs for children with special needs, improving their ability to participate in daily routines at home and in child care.
“Children are our future. The child care and early years service system plan will support children and their families in accessing services now and in the future,” said York Region chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson. “We look forward to our continued collaboration with service providers and community partners to offer a wide range of critical programs and activities for children.”
The updated plan was informed through research and engagement, including consultation with school boards, child-care operators, community leadership tables, local cities and towns, regional staff and community agencies serving children, including mental health, the release said.
“Research and data show positive early childhood experiences have a lasting impact on children,” said Vaughan Regional Councillor Gino Rosati, chair of community and health services. “The plan’s priority areas and actions will build a more accessible and inclusive child care and early years system for all children and families.”
