Abstract:
This paper investigates how early childhood education and care operators in Ontario navigated the early implementation (2021-2023) of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system. Drawing data from a mixed-methods survey and a political economy of care framework, the findings reveal widespread concern about the sustainability of the funding system, lack of workforce support, and implementation gaps. While affordability goals have largely been met for families, operators reported increased financial strains, staffing shortages, and unclear policy directives. The paper highlights a growing disconnect between federal policy goals and provincial execution, emphasizing the need for frontline-informed childcare reform.

Keywords:
Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC); Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC); Funding; Implementation Gaps; Operators; Ontario