A Special Event for Childminders in recognition of their role in early childhood development
Amongst other qualities, a childminder needs to, first, love children, be familiar with the theory of child development and must be committed to providing a safe, nurturing and learning environment for young children. Today’s working parents depend a lot on child care services to enable them to go out to work and contribute towards the economic development of the country. Childminders are not only essential service providers but also praiseworthy educators.
The 1st June is customarily a special occasion for children in Seychelles. This year was even more special and memorable to many Childminders as in recognition of their special role in the care and education of young children, the Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD) organised a special event for all Childminders on Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. The Vice President of the Republic, Mr. Danny Faure was the guest of honour at the event which took place at the Seychelles Institute of Teacher Education (SITE). The occasion was also attended by the Minister for Finance, Trade and Blue Economy, Mr. Jean-Paul Adam, Minister for Education, Mrs. Mac-Suzy Mondon, and other high government officials. The event began with a spiritual blessing for the work of all Childminders led by Reverend Alcindor. The highlight of the occasion was the speech by the Vice President, commending the Childminders for their role in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) pledging the Government’s commitment and support in raising the quality of Childminding Services across the country. The Vice President announced a number of incentives to support the Childminders to comply with the National Standards, once they are registered with IECD. The scheme include: a) financial assistance to employ an assistant, b) assistance upon registration with reasonable terms and conditions to access loans from the Small Business Financing Agency (SBFA) to carry out major refurbishment works at the premises. c) Increased government financial contribution to the ECCE Trust Fund.
