Minister Kicks Off Child Care Awareness Days

Community Services Minister Peter Christie joined children, parents and others interested in quality child care in a ceremony today kicking off Child Care Awareness Days.

Mr. Christie signed a proclamation declaring Aug. 21 to Sept. 10 Child Care Awareness Days in Nova Scotia and raised a flag at Province House with the logo Quality Child Care -- A Good Place to Grow.

"Quality child care is important to Nova Scotia's future success," Mr. Christie said. "It allows parents to stay in the workforce and provides children with a healthy start that will lead to a better future for all Nova Scotians."

Child Care Awareness Days include 999 celebrations across the province, including family fun fairs in Sydney, Halifax and Greenwood, a parade in Halifax, displays in the Mic Mac and Greenwood malls and a public lecture by child development expert Dr. Fraser Mustard.

"The support and participation not only of government but of individuals, media and business is a significant acknowledgment of the value of quality child care," said Anne Smith, communications and promotions co-ordinator for Child Care Connection Nova Scotia. "It enhances our efforts to foster recognition and respect for the child care profession."

Research shows that good quality care in a person's first five years is fundamental in building a foundation that will help a child become a healthy, productive and confident adult.

Child Care Awareness Days are sponsored by Child Care Connection Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Round Table on Child Care and the Department of Community Services, as well as a number of community sponsors.

For more information or a complete list of Child Care Awareness Days activities, please contact:

Anne Smith Child Care Connection Nova Scotia 902-423-8199

or

Cathy Shaw Department of Community Services 902-424-4326 E-mail: [email protected]