Nine licensed child-care providers in the Nechako Lakes region will share a bonus payment of $8,413.46 this Spring thanks to a one-time funding boost for licensed group child-care (30 months to school-age) providers that receive funding under the Child Care Operating Funding program.
This funding is to help child-care providers during the transition period associated with the implementation of full-day kindergarten. It is anticipated that this license category may be impacted by a lower enrolment in their child-care facilities as a result of more five year olds attending full-day kindergarten in September 2011.
Providers can use this funding to assist with the cost of providing quality child-care services to purchase items that enhance developmental opportunities for younger learners. This may include purchasing books, toys, arts and crafts supplies, and other educational items, as well as minor capital enhancements to improve the quality of the facility (e.g., equipment or furniture). The funds may also be used for professional development and training.