Getting to Know your International Contacts-Part 1

I have had the pleasure of learning about the early childhood field in Canada and in Hungary. 

Three of my sources work at Algonquin College in Canada.  One works in a private center. 

G. Reynolds stated that adequate funding is a major issue and that many are lobbying to have federal dollars to be used for high-quality programs.  She stated that many people simply cannot afford high-quality care for their children. 

J. Barton also works at Algonquin College.  She stated that availability and funding are major issues.  She stated that many parents work multiple jobs and have a difficult time finding a child care that meets their scheduling needs. 

J. Schultz stated that many parents are on a LONG wait list for high-quality programs, so many parents find an unlicensed child care center.  Some of the spots at her facility are subsidized and others are not.  She stated that there is current debate in Canada whether childcare should receive government funding.  Parents of early children get a $100 tax credit, but she says that it is just a "drop in the bucket".  She stated that some parents spend thousands of dollars for quality care.  The average family simply cannot afford this. 

E. Szatmari is from Hungary.  She stated that in some parts of Hungary.  There is very little money.  Schools currently are over populated and cannot fill the needs.  Where she is from, many people try to get loans from the school to try to pay for their child's care, but there is little money at the school.  She stated that many young children are being watched by grandparents in an over populated home. 

Poverty can impact anyone at anytime often without warning.  When Owen and Ella were 10 weeks old, my husband lost his job without warning.  Owen was in the hospital at the time and we had major medical bills piling up.  We also had two newborns going through a ton of diapers.  It was so scary.  Thankfully, Brian found a job a few months later, but it was a scary time.  It is important as an educator to know where the child is coming from and help meet their needs while at school.