McMaster University researchers have undertaken the initial nationwide examination of early childhood anxiety in Canada. Their findings reveal that almost three percent of children in kindergarten exhibit behaviours linked to anxiety. (Image source: Pexels)


January 25, 2024

In a recent announcement, Ontario's Education Minister, Stephen Lecce, unveiled plans to revamp the kindergarten school curriculum, sparking a mixed reaction among experts. The proposed changes aim to strike a balance between hands-on and play-based learning, emphasizing reading, writing, and math skills.

Lecce highlighted the importance of aligning the kindergarten curriculum with the content taught in later elementary and secondary education. The focus on foundational skills, particularly in reading, intends to address potential learning challenges early on. Clinical psychologist Todd Cunningham praised the initiative, stressing the significance of early intervention in reading difficulties.

Despite the positive reception, concerns have emerged about the potential impact on the existing world-renowned kindergarten program in Ontario. Annie Kidder, executive director of People for Education, expressed apprehension about adding mandatory expectations, emphasizing the importance of preserving foundational life skills that foster problem-solving, collaboration, and communication.

The announcement left educators with lingering questions, as the province is yet to release the official curriculum. The government has committed to consulting with teachers, education experts, and stakeholders to address these concerns in the coming months.

The proposed changes imply designated time for daily literacy and math skill development. Early reading screening for students from Year 2 of Kindergarten to Grade 2 is also part of the strategy to identify those in need of additional support.

Cunningham emphasized that the new curriculum aims to "re-engage" with scientifically backed teaching methods rather than a regression to outdated practices. He hopes to see explicit expectations for activities promoting phonemic awareness, such as rhymes and singing, to enhance students' early developmental processes.

Kate Winn, a kindergarten teacher, supported the need for explicit instruction in key academic areas alongside play-based learning. She stressed the importance of finding a balance that allows children to be children while setting them up for academic success.

However, concerns have been raised by Karen Brown, the president of the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO). Brown expressed disappointment that the curriculum changes were announced before consulting key stakeholders. She emphasized the need for professional development, training, and guidance for teachers regarding assessments and support for students requiring additional help.

The proposed curriculum changes are set to launch in the fall of 2025, with the province's education community awaiting further details on implementation and assessment methods.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Senate Votes To End Trump-Era Canada Tariffs With Bipartisan Support

Several Republican senators joined Democrats to stop Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canada. The vote, held in the Senate, was a....

Webb Telescope Captures Images Of Asteroid Once Seen As A Threat

The Webb Space Telescope has captured images of asteroid 2024 YR4, which once sparked concern when scientists thought it might....

Liberals Hold 8-Point Lead Over Conservatives In New Nanos Poll

The federal Liberals continue to hold an eight-point lead over the Conservatives as the election campaign reaches its 11th day.....

Carney Reconsiders Buying U.S. F-35 Fighter Jets

Prime Minister Mark Carney is reviewing Canada’s decision to buy 88 F-35 fighter jets, each costing $85 million. The government....

Canada Vows Strong Response To Trump Tariffs, Says Carney

U.S. President Donald Trump declared a major tariff plan on what he called “Liberation Day” on Wednesday. The new policy....

Toronto Police Union Calls For Action After Stabbing Suspect Released On Bail

Toronto’s police union is raising concerns after learning that the suspect in three recent random stabbings had previously been released....

Conservatives Drop Montreal Candidate Over Social Media Posts

A Conservative Party candidate in Montreal has been removed after posts he made on social media. Stefan Marquis, who was....

Man Shot And Killed In Car At Busy Brampton Plaza, Police Say

A man lost his life after being shot while sitting in a vehicle at a crowded Brampton plaza on Tuesday....

Cory Booker Sets Record With 25-Hour Senate Speech Criticizing Trump

Senator Cory Booker made history with a 25-hour speech in the Senate, setting a new record while speaking against former....

Poilievre Faces Backlash For Comments On 'Biological Clocks'

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is facing criticism for comments about young people struggling to buy homes before their "biological clocks"....

Susan Crawford Wins Wisconsin Supreme Court Race Despite Musk’s Push

Susan Crawford has won a 10-year term on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, securing a key victory for liberals. She defeated....

Windsor-Essex May See Up To 50mm Of Rainfall Soon, Flood Watch Issued

Environment Canada has issued a warning about heavy rain expected this week. Forecasters say rainfall could reach 30 to 50....