The lesson is that struggling preschool staff want a fair wage

Parents are paying the equivalent of a second mortgage on childcare because state investment is 10% of what is internationally recommended, says Marian Quinn

EARLY childhood education and care will be in the spotlight tomorrow. Childhood professionals across the country will stage a “walk-off” to express their frustration with a lack of government investment in their sector. They will call for a significant change in thinking and resourcing.

As the economy moves towards full employment, parents are in dismay that while they are at work they pay the equivalent of a second mortgage to ensure that their children are well looked after.

Children’s success is grounded in their early experiences. Young children need strong, trusting relationships with the people who provide their early learning and care.

When parents register with an early childhood education-and-care centre, they are trusting that the people working with their child will provide the best experience for them — that it will be fun, stimulating, and safe.

They also require that it is accessible and affordable.

However, providing high-quality early childhood education and care is expensive.

Statutory regulations and good practice require specific ratios of adults to children, which means that provision is labour-intensive. Add to this rising insurance costs, regulatory requirements, utility, and rental costs.

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