Full day learning realizes Early Years Study vision says author

TORONTO , Oct. 27 /CNW Telbec/ - The Ontario government's commitment to transform early childhood and education programs into a child and family service system realizes the call of the ground-breaking Early Year's Study says one of its authors, the Hon. Margaret Norrie McCain.

The government is wise to follow through on the recommendations of the Premier's early learning advisor says Mrs. McCain . Full day learning for four and five year olds is the catalyst to turn elementary schools into community centres for education, child care, health, family supports, recreation and cultural supports. "Rather than operating for 188 days out of the year our schools will become full time/full year centres, providing the supports that modern families need," she said.

Mrs. McCain credited the Premier for moving forward despite the province's economic circumstances. "Early learning and care is one of the most effective economic stimulants there are. It creates good jobs today as it prepares the workforce of tomorrow.

"This is an area where scientists and economists agree," she added. "The evidence is irrefutable, no other program can match the kinds of dividends that early learning delivers."

Mrs. McCain heads the Margaret and Wallace McCain Family Foundation. The Foundation is working with provincial governments in Atlantic Canada to share Ontario's experience using neighbourhood schools more intensely to provide families with a continuum of supports from the prenatal period to high school.

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