The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario has long been an advocate of full-day Kindergarten. We actively promote play-based learning in Kindergarten and beyond — are proud of the work done by the team of Kindergarten professionals and parents to support the learning of our youngest students.

Research has shown the benefits — students in full-day Kindergarten:

• are more ready to move up to Grade one

• read better in later grades

• demonstrate greater skills in oral language and artistic expression

• stay in school longer

• are more confident and willing to take risks.

From a broader educational perspective, full-day Kindergarten:

• narrows the gap in achie vement among students from different socio-economic groups

• leads to better integration of Kindergarten into the elementary school community, making children feel more comfortable with school

• provides more opportunities for DECEs (designated early childhood educator) and teachers to work individually with students and incorporate play and social activities into the curriculum.