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Early childhood education provides the foundation for future learning and it is important to take time to recognize the valuable early childhood educators across the province who have an incredible impact on the growth and development of our youngest Islanders, says Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Alan McIsaac.

“We are extremely proud to have such professional and caring educators and staff in our early learning and child care system. These men and women regularly go above and beyond their role to encourage creativity, enhance curiosity and nurture our children,” said Minister McIsaac. “I encourage all parents and children to show their appreciation to an educator or staff this week.”

November 4-8 is Early Childhood Education Week this year, and a number of activities are planned throughout the week.

The Early Childhood Development Association (ECDA) of PEI hosts an annual awards recognition to celebrate educators and recognize excellence in their practice. Nomination categories include “Educating with Excellence,” “Cooking for Quality” and “Leadership.”

“A nomination is a great opportunity for families or co-workers to recognize that special educator who has gone above and beyond the call of duty,” said Sonya Corrigan, Executive Director for the PEI Early Childhood Development Association. “There are so many fantastic educators and neat things happening across Prince Edward Island and this event is the opportunity to celebrate them and share their stories.

The annual awards banquet will be held November 15 to honour early childhood educators and staff from across the province. The National Child Day Parade will take place in Charlottetown on November 20. For a complete list of activities, visit the Early Childhood Development Association website at www.earlychildhooddevelopment.ca.

Government is pleased to work with the Early Childhood Development Association to enhance the quality of programs and services for children, families and communities. “Most recently we have worked collaboratively with the Early Childhood Development Association to promote the value of learning through play and the role early childhood educators have in the learning and development of our youngest children through a campaign called Start With Play,” said Minister McIsaac.

The Government of Prince Edward Island is committed to building a stronger education system, which begins with early learning and child care. Over the past five years, it has demonstrated this commitment by making significant investments in a provincial early learning and child care system. Prince Edward Island’s Preschool Excellence Initiative is one of the most progressive transformations in the country as recently recognized in the Globe and Mail.