Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework announced

The Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Métis National Council and the Government of Canada have a co-developed Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework, released September 17, 2018.

Based on extensive consultations with Indigenous parents and communities, the Framework reflects the unique cultures, aspirations and needs of First Nations, Inuit and Métis children across Canada and captures the views and recommendations of the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Métis National Council.

The Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework establishes overarching principles and sets a vision for:

• happy and safe Indigenous children and families
• strong cultural identity
• a comprehensive and coordinated system led by Indigenous peoples with accessible, flexible and fully inclusive Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) for all Indigenous children, families and communities regardless of where they live.

In support of the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework, the federal government is committing $1.7 billion over 10 years to strengthen ELCC programs and services for Indigenous children and families starting in 2018–19. This is part of the commitment of $7.5 billion over 11 years the Government made in 2017 to support and create more child care across the country.

Read the full background document from the Government of Canada.