News release

Funding Playground Safety at Child Care Centres

Community Services

Having fun while playing safe at licensed child-care centres will be easier thanks to a provincial government grant worth $4.9 million.

The Department of Community Services' Outdoor Play Space Grant encourages physical activity and healthy child development. The grant is available to full- and part-day licensed child-care centres, including school-age centres and family home agencies. The funding supports the costs associated with creating a safe environment for children to play.

"Outdoor play is an important part of a child's day," said Judy Streatch, Minister of Community Services. "This funding encourages healthy, active and safe play spaces and equipment for children in licensed child care."

The one-time grant can be used for expenses including landscaping, fencing and equipment. Large play equipment including climbers and swings must be professionally installed to CSA/ULC standards.

"It's important for children to develop healthy habits in their early years and this new grant will help by improving their outdoor play areas," said Debra Reimer, executive director of Apple Tree Landing Family Education Centre in Canning, Kings Co. "This funding will help us create a play space that encourages exploration outside of traditional slides and swings and get children interested in physical activity."

Applications must be received by the Department of Community Services by Friday, Aug. 31. Interested licensed child-care centres or family home day-care agencies must contact their regional early childhood development officer before submitting their application.

The funding is being provided under Nova Scotia's 10-year Early Learning and Child Care Plan. More information, including grant applications is available at www.gov.ns.ca/coms/families/elcc.html .