On Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day, the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO) stands with Ontarians to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of child care workers and designated early childhood educators (DECEs) in fostering the growth, achievement, and well-being of children. 

“As part of educator teams in Full-Day Kindergarten (FDK) classrooms, DECEs consistently contribute their expertise. Through caring interactions, they support well-being and nurture the holistic development of children, and are key partners working alongside teachers to ensure every child gets a positive start in school,” says ETFO President Karen Brown. “Respect for early childhood educators is essential, and so today, and every day, we recognize and celebrate their efforts.” 

FDK has provided lasting benefits for children’s reading, writing, numeracy, self-regulation, and social skill development. This is, in large part, due to the play-based learning expertise and leadership of DECEs. ETFO remains a champion and advocate of the FDK program, which is universally accessible and provides an equitable start to school for every learner in the province. 

ETFO represents approximately 83,500 members, including 80,000 public elementary teachers and occasional teachers, and 3,500 designated early childhood educators, education support personnel, and professional support personnel. Visit BuildingBetterSchools.ca to learn about ETFO’s commitment to improving Ontario’s schools, fighting for equity for all, and creating safe and supportive environments.