MPP Armstrong calls for real action to support Early Childhood Educators

QUEEN’S PARK – Shadow Minister with responsibility for Child Care and Pensions, MPP Teresa Armstrong (London—Fanshawe), marked the 25th annual Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day by pressing the Ford government in Question Period to back up its words with action.

“Today is a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who care for, protect, and help shape our most valuable asset — the next generation,” said Armstrong. “But words of appreciation fall short without action. We cannot simply say we appreciate childcare workers; we must show it.”

Nearly half of early childhood educators leave the profession within three years, and Ontario’s Auditor General has warned that 10,000 more Registered ECEs will be needed by 2026.

The Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care program is also set to expire in March 2026, with Ontario still not signed on to renew it. Over 300,000 families rely on the program, and more than 70,000 are still waiting for affordable spaces.

“In Question Period, I asked the Premier: if his government truly values child care workers, will he commit to a real plan that ensures fair wages, better working conditions, and career stability for this essential workforce — and will he get his ministers to the table to secure the future of affordable child care for Ontario families?”

Appreciation means action, and it is time this government acted accordingly.