Early Learning Framework
The British Columbia Early Learning Framework 
[1.15MB] describes the vision, pedagogical principles, and key areas of learning for children birth to five years (before school entry). The framework was developed in partnership with the Ministries of Children and Family Development, Health and Education.
The document was designed to be applicable to all early learning environments, including child care, StrongStart BC programs, and any other pre-school and early childhood development or child health program. The framework helps programs build on their strengths and encourages in depth reflection on their practices and the development of children. Broadly speaking, the intended purposes of the framework are to:
- Support dialogue and reflection on the critical importance of development and learning of young children.
- Serve as a tool for reflecting on and guiding early learning programs and activities.
- Support discussion with and between families about their children’s early learning.
- Guide professional development activities and investments.
- Serve as a basis for discussion among community partners with respect to the early years.
- Create a shared image of the child that can guide efforts to promote early learning at the local and provincial levels.
The framework may also be of interest for families with young children as a complement to other resources available, such as Baby’s Best Chance, Toddler’s First Steps and the parent booklet Ready, Set, Learn: helping your preschooler get ready for school.
The framework complements and builds on the BC Program Standards for Early Childhood Settings and the Child Care Licensing Regulations that requires child care facilities to provide a comprehensive program of activities that address all areas of child development
Three post-secondary institutions (the University of Victoria, Selkirk College, and Northern Lights College) have partnered with government to create and deliver professional development to implement the framework. This training will be provided to various early years’ audiences, including early childhood educators (ECEs), staff in ECE training institutions, and other service providers beginning in the fall 2008.
Information about training sessions will be posted shortly on the Ministry of Education’s Early Learning Website
Copies of the framework are being distributed to all early years and early learning partners. Additional copies of British Columbia Early Learning Framework may be purchased from:
Queen's Printer Publication Services
563 Superior Street
Victoria, BC, V8W 9V7
Telephone (250) 387-6409
Fax (250) 387-1120
Toll free 1-800-663-6105
Please quote catalogue # RB0195 when ordering.
The price is $2.45 + GST.
For more on early learning, go the ministry’s
Early Learning home page.
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