“By investing in our kids when they’re younger, we’ll be reducing the number of youth protection referrals later on, helping more of them do well at school and increasing their chances of graduating with a high school diploma. By investing in our kids, we can put an end to social inequalities by taking action to support them as soon as they come into the world.”

“Fourth time’s a charm, as they say! Once again this year, I’m glad to be an ambassador for Early Childhood Week, which is an extremely important event in terms of advocating for young children. For the past six years, the Passe-Partout television show has been reaching out to tots and toddlers in their homes. I’m very proud to be involved in something that has such a tremendous impact on young minds. I feel strongly that educating our children should be top on our list of societal priorities. If you agree, please join me in supporting Early Childhood Week and in speaking up on their behalf.”

Good lifestyle habits are the first step to better health. Early childhood is when the foundations of healthy development are laid. It’s our responsibility, as caring members of society, to pass on these values to our little ones and, most importantly, give them the chance to discover, experience and embrace the joys of being physically active every day.

Every child has a right to be an individual person. But that takes enlightenment, and enlightenment takes education.

“All children, regardless of background or living situation, are entitled to a good education. Education is essential to supporting healthy growth and development. Education also has the power to break the cycle of poverty for vulnerable children.”

“Young children are people with rights just like anyone else. They are entitled to be loved, to be treated with consideration, to be kept safe, to develop connections with others and to learn. They deserve a guiding hand to show them the way, lift them up and give them the tools they need to thrive. What children get from us today will be bundled up inside them and drawn on for the rest of their lives. Why shouldn’t we provide them with a strong, stable and secure foundation that lets them grow up confidently in the knowledge that they are worthy of love, respect and kindness? It’s the best gift they could ever receive and one that will last a lifetime.”

“In today’s world, children are exposed to inequalities and challenges every single day. We have to make sure they all have what they need to get into the boxing ring of life and win their round, so they can raise their arms in victory and feel a sense of accomplishment.   That’s why it’s important to join in this movement and help every child find where they belong. They say that no two stars shine alike. So let’s help children shine in their own way as they grow and develop, and put the right conditions in place for them to stay hopeful and emerge victorious!”

Language is one aspect that defines who we are, where are roots are grounded, and how we identify ourselves. So many cultures come to Canada speaking their languages from different parts of the world, but in Canada, our First Nations are in danger of losing our languages due to the laws put in place by the provincial and federal governments. It is vital that parents have sufficient knowledge and support to speak to their children, starting at birth, in their Native language first and foremost. It is vital they are taught their own language, culture, and ceremonies right from the beginning of their lives. This is how we will remain as Indigenous People. To do this, investment, support, and legislation must be put in place to ensure these rights are able to be upheld.

I’m very happy to once again be teaming up with Early Childhood Week. The right to a good education is so important, both to children’s ability to thrive and to our collective prosperity. It needs to be a commitment we all embrace. We have a duty to make sure every child is equipped to reach their full potential.