My partner and I have tried to work less in order to spend more time with our kids, but out of economic necessity we’ve had to rely more on the services of child care professionals. Every month we pay over $1,000 for child care and after school care, one of our largest monthly expenses.
It costs us a pretty penny, but no one is getting rich from us - the child care workers are loving and professional, the spaces are bright and cheerful. We are fortunate to be able to afford this quality care, which isn’t the case for many Canadians.
Child care is an essential service, but it isn’t treated like one.
Since 1970 when the Royal Commission on the Status of Women proposed a national child care program. Successive Liberal and Conservative governments have talked about child care but have done absolutely nothing to create more accessible and quality child care in this country.
Parents who are worried about the rising cost of child care should take note of the NDP’s $15-a-day proposal and vote for change.
Nicole Yurkoski
Marsh Lake