October 21, 2025, marks the 25th Annual Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day – a day to recognize the dedication, skill, and compassion of Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) and staff who nurture and educate our youngest learners every day.

At the YMCA we deeply value our early childhood educators who are committed providing high-quality care for children and supporting families. Let’s recognize and support these dedicated professionals, today and every day.

The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce and Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board (BGCDSB) are excited to announce that the renovations at St. Anthony’s Catholic School are complete, and the new YMCA Child Care – Kincardine is ready to open. The current Kincardine YMCA Child Care facility, which is now 18 years old, will be relocating to the newly renovated school on November 1, 2023.

This day recognizes the commitment, skills and hard work of Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) and staff who work with young children. Each year, the day is proclaimed by the Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care (OCBCC), the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), municipalities and school boards across Ontario, and is marked by hundreds of child care centres, unions, and allies.