By Pete McIntyre

Report cites ‘desperate’ need for more child care spaces

Mar 9, 2020 | 5:00 AM

Vernon council will be discussing ways to deal with the lack of child care spaces at its meeting this afternoon (March 9).

A new report based on information from community surveys — and over 450 responses — “painted a clear picture on the desperate need for additional child care spaces in Greater Vernon.”

The report, by GDH Solutions, said the lack of child care affects parents’ ability to work, to advance in their careers and their quality of life (mental, physical and social).

“It also affects children who may not have an opportunity for interaction with other children supporting the development of social skills and school readiness.”

The report, called The Child Care Space Action Plan, stated the number of children in Vernon 12 and under was 4,890 as of 2016, and there are currently 1,411 child care spaces although it admits not all families require child care.

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In Coldstream, there are 1,385 children 12 and under, with only 256 spaces.

The study recommends governments offer early education to all preschool aged children.

“Instead of a “place to go while mom works,” today’s early childhood education provides a first tier of education that is as important as those that follow,” said the report.

The study is viewed as a first step for Vernon and Coldstream to move forward to develop new child care spaces.

City staff is recommending council form an action team to look at ways to mitigate the shortage, to share the report with School District 22 and to request the Chamber of Commerce encourage large employers to provide child care at workplaces.

by Pete McIntyre

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