MPP Sylvia Jones’ Statement on Teddy Bear Playschool

“I would, however, like to raise a concern about a program called Teddy Bear Playschool, operating out of the Orangeville District Secondary School for almost 30 years, that is being forced to close because of recent changes announced by this government. Teddy Bear Playschool is a preschool program that runs for five hours a week and matches grade 11 and 12 students with a preschooler. Students have an opportunity to learn skills that will serve them well in teaching, education or possibly even becoming an early childhood educator. In fact, many of the ODSS students who were part of this class went on to become an ECE.

We all know the importance of ensuring childhood safety; however, I am concerned that we have cast the net too wide. It is exceptional programs like Teddy Bear which we need to ensure have the opportunity to continue. Why are you forcing it to close, Minister?

The people of Dufferin–Caledon are frustrated, and they want to see it stay open. In less than a week, about 300 people have signed a petition opposing the closure of Teddy Bear Playschool. People are saying things like, “All three of my children attended Teddy Bear and thrived because of it!” Another resident said, “Teddy Bear Playschool is the reason I became an ECE.” Without action, for the first time in 30 years, the students of ODSS will have to learn about child care work from a textbook.

It is important to recognize the work that child workers and ECEs do to shape the growth of our children. My Progressive Conservative colleagues and I appreciate the work of child care workers and early childhood educators, and their commitment to our province’s children. I urge the minister to save Teddy Bear Playschool and allow students at ODSS the opportunity to have hands-on, first-hand experience in child care so they can be inspired to become tomorrow’s ECEs.” – Sylvia Jones, MPP (October 26, 2016)