Children’s early experiences

A Vision for Ontario’s Early Years

Children’s early experiences last a lifetime.

During our first years of life, the brain develops at an astounding
rate. Scientists now know this process is not just genetic but is
dramatically influenced by our early experiences with people and
our surroundings.

1. National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, n.d.
   While a child’s principal sources for supportive relationships
   and learning experiences are at home, many Ontario children
   also attend child care and child and family programs. Early
   years programs play an important role in supporting children’s
   learning, development, health, and well-being. Evidence from
   diverse fields of study tells us that children grow in programs
   where adults are caring and responsive. Children succeed in
   programs that focus on active learning through exploration, play,
   and inquiry. Children thrive in programs where they and their
   families are valued as active participants and contributors.
   
2. In January 2013, the
   Ontario government released
   the Ontario Early Years Policy
   Framework, which articulates the
   following vision for early years programs:
   “Ontario’s children and families are well
   supported by a system of responsive, high-quality, accessible,
   and increasingly integrated early years programs and services that
   contribute to healthy child development today and a stronger future
   tomorrow.”
3. Ministry of Education, Ontario, 2013, p. 2.
   How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years,
   2014 builds on this policy framework and is a key component
   of Ontario’s vision for the early years. It demonstrates our
   commitment to strengthening the quality of early years
   programs by ensuring these programs are centred on the child
   and the family.
4. 
   There is perhaps no relationship that holds greater responsibility
   or reward than the relationships we develop with children.
   As educators, as family members, as policy makers, or as
   administrators, we all know that the stronger our partnerships
   and the deeper and more valuable our connections, the greater
   the benefit. It’s an investment that allows us all to grow.