The 2025 Canadian Federal Election is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal elections in our country’s history. We at the CCCF firmly believe that electing a political party that prioritizes quality, affordable child care is essential to building a stronger, more equitable, and prosperous Canada. Child care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. It affects educators, families, communities, and the economy in profound and lasting ways. When a government takes bold action to make quality child care affordable and accessible, it transforms lives.
Quality child care is crucial for early childhood development. The early years are a pivotal time in a child’s life, establishing the groundwork for lifelong learning and better behavioral and health outcomes. A society that invests in early learning acknowledges that education starts long before kindergarten and that every child, regardless of their background or income, deserves the best possible start.
We also believe that affordable quality child care is a cornerstone of gender equality. Across Canada, women—especially mothers—continue to bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities. Without access to reliable and affordable child care, many are forced to choose between pursuing careers and staying home. This limits their earning potential, career advancement, and overall economic independence. Electing a government that prioritizes child care helps ensure that women are not penalized for having families, and it paves the way for true gender equity in the workforce. Let’s also not forget that our sector is over 90% women, a sector that continues to struggle for fair compensation and recognition.
From an economic perspective, the argument for public investment in child care is compelling. Accessible child care allows more parents—especially mothers—to enter the workforce, driving economic growth, increasing tax revenues, and reducing dependence on social assistance. Research indicates that for every dollar invested in child care, the broader economy sees significant returns. Investing in child care is not only the right choice; it’s also a smart one.
Moreover, a political commitment to child care must extend to supporting the workforce that provides it. Early childhood educators are the backbone of the system, yet they are often undervalued and undercompensated. A party that genuinely prioritizes child care must ensure fair wages, training, and professional recognition for these essential workers. Only then can we establish a stable, high-quality system that benefits everyone.
