Veronica Pacini-Ketchabaw’s article, Embedded Within Childcare Regulations: a historical analysis, states that Ontario childcare in the early-to-mid twentieth century was primarily seen as an act of charity (Pacini-Ketchabaw, 2005, p. 42). The government believed high infant mortality rates were the problem of the lower class. This was first attributed to poor hygiene and nutrition and later to mothers ignorant of proper parenting practices. In establishing childcare, the government was essentially trying to save children from what was perceived as incompetent parenting. Meanwhile, doctors came to believe that the childcare programs themselves were detrimental to children’s health (Pacini-Ketchabaw, 2005, p. 44).
Despite roots in acts of charity, the first two historical discourses (“the need for medical supervision” and “the relationships with ‘families in need’”) are still useful for regulating childcare today. Regulation of childcare helps ensure that minimum standards are being met at all facilities and gives a course of action for when they are not met. Current government policies, much like the original goals of regulation, help ensure that children’s medical needs are met and help prevent neglect. …show more content…
3). Contrary to the historical discourse of “the need to follow strict programming and behavioural guidelines”, the Parents’ Guide clarifies that childcare is not one size fits all. For parents seeking childcare there are many factors to consider including: the child’s age, the parents’ schedule, proximity to home/work/school, ideals of childcare, and the availability and cost of childcare (MCFD, 2009, p.