Happy ECE Appreciation Day!

A message from the AECEO on ECE Appreciation Day 2024

Today is the 24th Early Childhood Educator & Child Care Worker Appreciation Day. This day is organized each year by the Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care (OCBCC) and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) to recognize the ones who make early childhood education and care possible - the early years workforce

Appreciation Day is an opportunity to raise public awareness about the importance of ECE and the issues facing the sector. Beyond that, it is a chance for children and families to celebrate educators and show gratitude for the vital role they play in communities everywhere. 

The past few years have been especially challenging for ECE professionals in our province. We commend and appreciate ECEs' resilience and strength, and stay committed to fighting for the recognition, respect and remuneration our profession deserves. We know ECEs and Child Care Workers are worth MORE!

Through our policy, advocacy and community work, the AECEO team connects with educators across the Ontario early years sector and while we know it takes a very special kind of human to work with young children and their families, we find ourselves constantly in awe of the care, dedication, passion and heart we see in Ontario ECE community. 

Whether your role is directly with children in school boards, child care or family support, or indirectly through teaching in post-secondary programs, educating and caring for young children is very hard work. It is more important than ever that ECEs lift one another up and celebrate their own selves and their peers. On this Appreciation Day we are reminded of this quote from Mr. Rogers: 

“Anyone who does anything to help a child in their life is a hero.”

Early childhood educators dedicate their days to creating safe spaces for children to learn, grow and play. Today, we hope you are able to take a few moments to treat yourselves like the heroes you are every day! Happy ECE & Child Care Worker Appreciation Day! 

Connect with the AECEO via FacebookInstagram & TikTok and tell us about how you marked Appreciation Day 2024!


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