Released on May 30, 2018
Deputy Premier and Education Minister Gordon Wyant has proclaimed May 27 to June 2, as Early Childhood Intervention Program (ECIP) Week to recognize the valuable contribution ECIPs make in supporting children from birth to school age who experience disability, developmental delays or are at risk of delay.In 2018-19, the Ministry of Education is providing $3.95 million to ECIPs, who serve 1,200 children annually through 14 locations across the province.
“ECIP Week recognizes staff and the wide range of professionals working with families to support the developmental needs of children,” Wyant said. “The relationships ECIPs form with parents and children prepare students for their transition to school.”
ECIP staff work with families to enhance child development, use assessment tools to identify areas of delay and provide help to parents to be able to support their children. Staff serve as an important link in connecting families with other resources available in their community and give families the knowledge and confidence to meet the developmental needs of their children.
To learn more about the valuable services provided by Saskatchewan ECIPs, an informative video is available at www.ecip.ca.
“Early Childhood Intervention Programs across the province celebrate children and families every day,” Saskatoon Region ECIP Executive Director Arlene Trask said. “They promote child engagement and learning through play, connect families to their community and help build confidence in caregivers, so they can face challenges and celebrate successes. For one week each year in May, we recognize ECIP Week – a time for all of us to celebrate together. Each of the 14 ECIPs host events in their regions to increase awareness of the program and thank the communities for their support. Happy ECIP Week 2018!”
To celebrate ECIP week, local ECIPs across the province are hosting a variety of events. Here are a few of the events taking place:
- May 30 - Family Fun Day in Prince Albert;
- May 31 - Kinistin Treaty Day celebration barbeque and fireworks in Tisdale;
- June 1 - Annual Teddy Bear Clinic in North Battleford; and
- June 3 - Annual Family Social at the Science Centre in Regina.
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For more information, contact:
Chris Hodges
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: chris.hodges@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506