PROVINCIAL CONSULTATION TO ENHANCE EARLY LEARNING AND CARE

The Government of Saskatchewan is launching a series of discussion forums with key stakeholders as an important step in the creation of a strategy and action plan that will address preschool learning, child care and parenting supports in the province. Discussion forums will be held throughout May and June in Regina, Yorkton, Carlyle, Swift Current, Meadow Lake, Beauval, La Ronge, Tisdale, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw and Saskatoon.

"Early learning and care is a relatively new concept that addresses both the child care needs of parents and the developmental needs of children, our most precious resource," Community Resources and Employment Minister Joanne Crofford said. "Dialogue with key stakeholders and the community is essential to ensuring creation of a plan that will work for Saskatchewan children and families."

"Early learning and care provides children with a good start in life which will help with learning later on," Learning Minister Andrew Thomson said. "We want to build strong families while helping children with social and intellectual development."

The Saskatchewan Instructional Development & Research Unit (SIDRU) from the University of Regina will facilitate the discussion forums and submit a report to the provincial government that reflects the overall interests and needs identified across the province. Government will use this information in developing an Early Learning and Care strategy and action plan.

Representatives from key stakeholder groups, including parents, KidsFirst service clients, caregivers, early childhood educators, the Aboriginal community, schools and school divisions, Regional Intersectoral Committees (RICs) and community organizations, will be invited to participate in forums. Anyone else interested in sharing views and input is welcome to make a written submission, and can contact Nanette Marquarte of SIDRU by phone at (306) 585-4309 or by e-mail at nanette.marquarte@uregina.ca to obtain more information.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Miller Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306)787-0531

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306)787-5609