Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) and Child Care Assistants (CCAs) are responsible for shaping the foundation of children’s education and emotional well-being. Despite this, they face:

 • Low Wages: ECEs in Canada earn $17-$21/hour on average, while CCAs earn around $15.80-$17/hour—far below the salaries of teachers who earn $28-$50/hour.

 • No Relief or Breaks: Unlike teachers, daycare staff often work long hours without structured breaks, substitutes, or preparation time.

 • Heavy Workload: Childcare workers juggle early education, supervision, safety, behavior management, cleaning, and meal preparation—all without sufficient resources or recognition.

 

Comparison to Teachers
Teachers and ECEs share similar duties in educating children. However:

 • Teachers benefit from structured hours, prep time, and substitute teachers during absences.

 • Teachers are recognized as essential professionals and compensated accordingly.

 • ECEs are left undervalued, overworked, and underpaid despite managing the critical formative years of a child’s development.

 

What We Demand

We call on the Government of Canada to:

 1. Raise Wages for Childcare Workers: Align their pay with teachers to reflect their critical roles.

 2. Improve Working Conditions: Mandate breaks, preparation time, and substitute support for daycare staff.

 3. Increase Funding: Provide childcare centres with the resources needed to improve wages and reduce staff shortages.

 4. Recognize Childcare Workers as Professionals: Elevate their status within the education sector.

 

Why This Matters

By supporting childcare workers, we invest in our children’s future. Fair wages and better working conditions will attract and retain skilled professionals, ensuring high-quality childcare and early education across Canada.

 

Take Action Now

Sign this petition to demand justice for childcare workers in Canada. Let’s create a brighter future for our children and those who care for them.