Activities (What CCCF Does)

The CCCF fosters a collaborative community of early childhood educators and organizations across Canada. As a federation of provincial/territorial associations, it unites members in pursuit of quality child care

Advocacy & Policy Leadership

 

CCCF represents the voice of early childhood educators in national policy discussions, promoting quality, accessibility, and inclusion.

 

Example: In 2022, CCCF submitted feedback on Bill C-35 (An Act Respecting Early Learning and Child Care), urging that early childhood educators be placed at the centre of the newly forming Canada-wide ELCC system, including recommendations on workforce training, equitable compensation, and professional recognition.

Research and Best Practices

 

 

A key part of CCCF’s mandate is to serve as a knowledge hub. The organization supports and disseminates applied research, best practices, and standards for early childhood programs.

 

Example: In 2003, CCCF developed the original Occupational Standards for Child Care Practitioners, which later became the foundation for the updated Occupational Standards for Early Childhood Educators published in 2010 by CCHRSC. These documents provide national guidelines for educator skills, knowledge, and competencies.

 

Professional Learning and Training

 

CCCF provides workshops, courses, and webinars to strengthen ECE skills. It has expanded online learning so educators can train anywhere in Canada. Webinars cover topics from child development to inclusive practice, with recordings available on demand, while self-paced courses give access to current knowledge and practical strategies.

 

Example: In October 2022, CCCF hosted the webinar Getting Preschoolers Active, facilitated by nature play expert Margaret Fraser (Child and Nature Alliance of Canada). The session introduced tools such as the Risk Assessment Tool, outdoor first aid kit guidelines, and loose parts play resources, while encouraging educators to bring their programs outside. The recording is available on their site and youtube channel.

Community Building and Networking

 

As a federation, CCCF emphasizes building community among educators, directors, researchers, and families. It connects members “coast to coast to coast” through online forums, social media, and events, fostering peer support and dialogue with governments. This collective approach strengthens advocacy and helps ECEs share experiences to improve practice.

 

Example: CCCF works through its provincial affiliate organizations to host local workshops, meetings, and forums that connect educators, directors, and families in communities across Canada. For instance, affiliates present feedback at the Affiliate Member Council Representatives meetings and host regional education events to strengthen local networks.

Support to Affiliates

 

As a national umbrella organization, the Canadian Child Care Federation (CCCF) supports its provincial and territorial affiliate associations. These affiliates—such as provincial early childhood educator groups and child care associations—benefit from CCCF’s national perspective, shared resources, and advocacy tools.
Through collaboration, CCCF provides organizational development support, coordinates joint projects, and offers a platform to highlight local issues on a national stage.

 

Example: CCCF regularly convenes the Affiliate Member Council, where representatives from provincial associations meet to discuss shared priorities, policy updates, and strategies for improving early learning and care across Canada. This partnership strengthens both CCCF and local affiliates, ensuring children and families benefit from consistent, high-quality support nationwide.