Decolonize policies and regulations in early childhood education to ensure access to culturally appropriate programming. This must include expanded access to land-based programming for Indigenous children.

First Light and AECENL collaborate to deliver training

As noted in Call for Change 2, over 100 early childhood educators have earned a certificate through the Roots of Knowledge course, developed by First Light in collaboration with AECENL.

Barrier: Transportation for Children

For children under five, access to off-site land-based programming is often limited by the availability of transportation equipped with appropriate car seats. Without this transportation, Early Learning staff must generally plan activities within walking distance.

The location of the First Light Childcare Centre provides access to the Rennie’s River trail, allowing children to participate in land-based programming near the river, as well as in the centre’s garden and outdoor play area. Other childcare centres and preschool programs may have fewer options, depending on their proximity to suitable green spaces and whether these spaces can be reached safely. Heavy traffic and inadequate winter maintenance of pedestrian routes can create additional barriers.