Alberta families are facing challenges in arranging care for their children as teachers gear up for a strike next week, with families of students with disabilities experiencing added difficulties. While after-school programs are extending their hours, the funding provided under Alberta’s Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) does not cover care during school hours. Parents of children receiving this funding are now seeking specialized childcare, which can cost around $25 per hour.
Keltie Marshall, co-founder of Hold My Hand Alberta, a group advocating for children with disabilities, emphasized the unique challenges faced by families in finding suitable care for their disabled children. Marshall and co-founder Shantel Mogos have expressed their concerns to the director of the FSCD program.
In response to the impending strike, the province has announced financial support for parents of children aged 12 and under at $30 per child per day. However, families of middle and high school students with disabilities requiring care during school hours are not covered by this support. The province has not committed to adjusting FSCD guidelines to assist these students.
While Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides has acknowledged the concerns of parents and pledged to minimize disruptions, specific plans to support children with disabilities during the strike remain unclear. The government is exploring ways to enhance assistance for families with children having complex needs. The Alberta Teachers’ Association is prepared to strike on October 6 if a settlement is not reached, with ongoing exploratory talks between the ATA and the government.
The potential strike poses challenges for families like Dave White’s, who have children with disabilities. White’s son, who attends an after-school program, may face gaps in care due to funding limitations. The situation highlights the strain on families who may need to take time off work to care for their children. Trish Bowman, CEO of Inclusion Alberta, expressed concerns about families’ job security if they are forced to stay home.
With the strike looming, families are anxious about the impact on their children, especially those with disabilities who rely on additional support. The uncertainty surrounding care arrangements during school hours is a major source of worry for parents like White, who fear the disruption to their child’s routine and social connections.
