The Government of Saskatchewan has declared May as Early Childhood Education Month, with May 14 designated as Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day, to recognize the contributions of early learning professionals across the province.
The announcement highlights the important role early childhood educators (ECEs) play in supporting the physical, emotional and intellectual development of young children in Saskatchewan. Officials say the month is an opportunity to thank the thousands of professionals who design and deliver child care programming.
As part of the province’s recognition efforts, the government has introduced changes aimed at enhancing professional development for those in the field.
All regulated child care facilities will now receive two days per licensing year for professional development, according to updates made to the province’s Child Care Licensee’s Manual.
In addition, changes to The Child Care (Grants) Amendment Regulations, 2025 will require all staff in licensed child care centres to complete at least six hours of professional development annually, aligning with existing requirements for family and group home operators.
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"I am proud to proclaim May as Early Childhood Education month and May 14th as Early Childhood Educators Appreciation Day to celebrate and recognize all that they do for Saskatchewan families," Education Minister Everrett Hindley said. "We have heard from the sector that there is limited time for staff to carry out planning and learning together. In support of our ECE's, these additional two days for professional development will further provide Saskatchewan ECEs opportunities to build their knowledge and to stay on top of best practices that support children's growth and development."
Ashley Elgert, interim executive director of the Saskatchewan Early Childhood Association, welcomed the changes, calling them a “meaningful step forward.”
"Early childhood educators are the heart of our child care system," Elgert said. "Every day, they show up with care, creativity and deep commitment to the children and families they support. We are pleased to see the ministry respond to what we and others in the sector have long advocated for — dedicated time for professional development. These changes are a meaningful step forward in valuing ECEs and investing in their continued growth, while recognizing the essential role they play in Saskatchewan communities."
Early childhood educators in Saskatchewan work in regulated centres and homes, Prekindergarten classrooms, Early Years Family Resource Centres, and programs such as the Early Childhood Intervention Program.
The province also plans to launch a public awareness campaign in the coming weeks to promote careers in early childhood education and highlight the impact ECEs have on children’s early development.