Introduction
Introduction In the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, the Provincial Government committed to implementing a Minister’s Advisory Committee on improving early learning and child care. This committee was commissioned to consult widely in the development of action items for five priority areas of the provincial early learning and child care system:
1. Affordability;
2. Access;
3. Inclusion and Diversity;
4. Quality; and
5. Accountability.
In January 2023, the Department of Education began the development and of this action plan entitled Newfoundland and Labrador’s 2024 to 2026 Early Learning Action Plan. This action plan outlines 35 action items within the five priority areas to improve early learning and child care in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Government’s commitment has been reflected in work completed to date, budget allocations, and the release of this action plan. The Department of Education has a mandate to promote a high-quality educational system in the province, from early learning and child care to K-12 education and post-secondary education. For early learning and child care, this goal is accomplished by implementing significant measures supporting the developmental potential of children, supporting parents/ caregivers and early learning professionals, supporting child care operations and family resource centres, providing more available and affordable regulated childcare services, and facilitating a seamless transition into the K-12 education system.