Minister Kicks Off Child Care Awareness Days

A person's early years are important as research shows quality care is important for a child to become a healthy, productive and confident adult.

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

Mr. Christie signed a proclamation declaring June as 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 provides children with a healthy start and allows parents to stay in the workforce, and that will lead to a better future for all Nova Scotians," said Mr. Christie.

Child Care Awareness Days include celebrations across the province, including family fun fairs, open houses, mall displays, and a public lecture by University of Toronto researcher and child care advocate Martha Friendly on Thursday, June 8.

"We are proud of the work we do," said Karen Geddes, president of Child Care Connection Nova Scotia. "Events planned this month enhance our efforts to foster recognition and respect for the child care profession."

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.