She's been recognized across the country as a leader in the field of Early Childhood Education, and she's dedicated much of her life to children and families in B.C.

Today at Douglas College in New Westminster, Susan Fraser was presented with a Child Care Award of Excellence for Lifetime Achievement by the Ministry of Children and Family Development. The awards recognize the valuable contributions that are made in support of early learning and child care in British Columbia.

After moving to Canada from Africa, Fraser operated a preschool in West Vancouver for more than 20 years (1965-1988) and, to this day, children and families still approach her in the community to express their appreciation for the preschool's positive influence in their lives. She also spent 18 years (1981-1999) as an instructor at Douglas College in the faculty of child, family and community studies.

In 1992, Fraser became the editor of Canadian Children, and in 1993 she became one of the first Canadian delegates to visit the now world-famous preschools of Reggio Emilia, Italy. Her book, Authentic Childhood: Experiencing Reggio Emilia in the Classroom, is used in early childhood teacher preparation programs across Canada and the U.S.

May is Child Care Month in B.C., a time to recognize the extraordinary work of child care providers throughout the province.

Quotes:

Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development -

"It's an honour to present Susan with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her vision, her dedication to children, and her outstanding work in the field of Early Childhood Education. I can't thank her enough for everything she has done to support the healthy development of our youngest citizens."

Dr. Scott McAlpine, president of Douglas College -

"Susan Fraser shaped not only the early childhood education curriculum at Douglas College, she provided leadership and mentoring to early childhood practitioners across Canada and influenced the development of progressive early childhood education in the United States, Taiwan, China and the United Arab Emirates. We are honoured to have had her as a member of Douglas College for 18 years."

Learn More:

Parents looking for child care or early childhood development programs can search two online maps that offer names, addresses, contact information and details about services offered in communities throughout the province: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/

If you are a child-care operator and would like more information on funding and services offered through the government, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/providers.htm

Contact:

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639