In Canada, ECE is primarily the responsibility of provincial and territorial governments, meaning that the benefits and subsidies can vary significantly across the country. There is no single, unified national system for ECE.

Canada

Canada’s Bill C-35 (the Canada Early Learning and Child Care Act) was introduced to improve the quality, affordability, and accessibility of early childhood education and care. The bill aims to build a universal and affordable childcare system by investing in ECE programs and supporting workforce development. This law strengthens the role of the federal government in coordinating childcare policy, building upon agreements with provincial and territorial governments.

Comparisons

Sweden:

• Sweden’s system is publicly funded, and fees are capped based on income.
• Sweden also has universal subsidized daycare for children aged 1-5.
• The country has launched a groundbreaking new law that allows grandparents to get paid parental leave. The law means grandparents will get paid while taking care of their grandchildren for up to three months of a child’s first year.

Finland:

• Finland’s Act on Early Childhood Education and Care focuses on high-quality, publicly funded early childhood education that is both affordable and accessible for all families.
• The country has a particular focus on providing quality education services to children with disabilities.

References