As we approach the end of 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on the journey we have shared this year. At Better Than Home, our dedication to providing exceptional home daycare services across Toronto, York Region, Peel Region, and Simcoe County has been unwavering. This year has presented its share of challenges, but together, we have navigated them with resilience and determination.
Overcoming Challenges Together
The landscape of early childhood education has been dynamic, requiring us to adapt and advocate for the needs of our families and providers. We have stood firm in supporting parents and caregivers, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs met. Our commitment to expanding access to quality home daycare has led to the growth of our network, now encompassing over 20 licensed home daycares. This expansion reflects our dedication to serving our communities, even in the face of adversity.
Transitioning to a New Funding Model
As we prepare for the new cost-based funding model under the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system, beginning January 1, 2025, we must acknowledge the significant challenges this transition brings. While the intent of the program—to make childcare more affordable for families—is commendable, the realities of its implementation present hurdles for providers, families, and agencies alike.
One of the key changes includes the capping of daily base fees at a maximum of $22 per day for children. This initiative is designed to make childcare more affordable for families across the province.
For licensed home daycares like those in our network, the changes in funding mechanisms mean adapting to an approach that may not fully account for the unique operating needs of small-scale providers. The cap on daily base fees, while beneficial for parents, limits the ability of providers to cover rising costs such as supplies, maintenance, and wages.
We are committed to weathering these changes while continuing to deliver the high-quality care that families rely on. Our focus is on supporting our providers through this transition, ensuring they have the resources, training, and guidance to adapt to the new economic conditions. This will not be an easy path, but together, we will find ways to navigate it without compromising the nurturing, enriching environments we provide for children.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Looking ahead, our mission remains clear: to provide nurturing, safe, and enriching environments for the children entrusted to our care. We are dedicated to enhancing the experiences of our providers, parents, and children by:
- Supporting Our Providers: We recognize the invaluable role that our providers play in the development of young minds. We are committed to offering ongoing professional development opportunities, resources, and support to ensure they can continue to deliver exceptional care.
- Empowering Parents: We understand that choosing the right childcare is a significant decision for families. Our goal is to provide transparent, accessible, and affordable options that meet the diverse needs of our communities.
- Enriching Children’s Lives: At the heart of our work are the children. We strive to create engaging, inclusive, and stimulating environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
A Message to Our Community
- To our providers: Your dedication and passion are the foundation of our success. We are grateful for your unwavering commitment to the children and families you serve. As we transition into the new funding model, we stand beside you, ready to support and advocate on your behalf.
- To the parents: Thank you for entrusting us with your children’s early education and care. Your partnership and feedback are invaluable as we strive to meet your expectations and support your family’s needs. We are here to assist you through the changes ahead, ensuring that quality care remains accessible and affordable.
- To the children: You are the inspiration behind all that we do. Your curiosity, joy, and growth motivate us to create the best possible environments for you to flourish. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, discovering new adventures and learning opportunities together.
Looking Forward to 2025
The upcoming year presents not just new beginnings but also new challenges for our agency and the families we serve. The updated funding model forces us to rethink how we sustain our network of licensed home daycares. While we cannot deny the difficulties, we also see this as an opportunity to innovate and advocate further for systemic improvements in the childcare sector.
Our commitment to our providers remains steadfast. They are the heart of our agency, and we recognize the immense pressure these changes place on them. We will continue to stand by their side, offering resources and advocating for fair and sustainable practices that reflect the realities of their work.
For families, we aim to maintain transparency and provide support as they navigate the impacts of these changes. We understand that affordable childcare is a lifeline for many, and we are determined to ensure that quality remains accessible despite the economic challenges.
While the road ahead is uncertain, our mission remains unchanged: to provide nurturing environments where children can thrive, families can feel supported, and providers can flourish. Together, we will adapt and grow, finding new ways to strengthen our community in the face of adversity.
Warm Wishes for the New Year
From all of us at Better Than Home, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and prosperous New Year. Let us face 2025 with courage, optimism, and a shared commitment to building a brighter future for our children. Thank you for being part of our community. We look forward to growing and thriving together in the year ahead.
Warm regards,
Ekaterina Gueletina
Owner and Director, Better Than Home Daycare Agency
