Adapting Childcare to Labour Force Needs: A Step Above Learning Society

Adapting Childcare to Labour Force Needs: A Step Above Learning Society

In Grande Prairie, Alberta, where the economy thrives on industries that don't conform to the traditional 9-to-5 workday, childcare solutions must be as adaptable as the community they serve. The city’s economic landscape includes a significant number of shift workers, single parents, and those seeking opportunities to further their education. 

Image

Facilities like A Step Above Learning Society, under the leadership of Christine Pasmore, are stepping up to meet these unique needs, ensuring that childcare options keep pace with the demands of a dynamic labour market.

Addressing a High Demand for Flexible Childcare

With the introduction of the $10-a-day childcare program, demand for affordable childcare in Grande Prairie skyrocketed. “The waitlist grew to over 900 kids,” says Pasmore, highlighting the desperate need for more spaces. The expansion of A Step Above Learning Society through grants has been instrumental in addressing this challenge, allowing them to create 241 licensed spaces, though the need still far outstrips availability.

Grande Prairie's childcare coverage rate is currently at 15.9 per cent, with 363 spots added. While this has improved year-over-year, Grande Prairie is still classified as a "high needs" area, a designation that allows for additional support and funding​. 

A Facility Designed for Shift Workers and Beyond

Recognizing that many residents work non-traditional hours, A Step Above Learning Society has tailored its services to accommodate the needs of shift workers. 

“We offer 15 extended hour spaces, available from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. or from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., as well as 10 overnight spaces,” Pasmore explains. 

This means the center is open 24/7, providing vital support for shift workers in industries like healthcare, retail, and oil and gas. This flexibility is especially valuable for single parents who might be pursuing education or working night shifts.

Image
Christine Pasmore, Director of A Step Above Learning Society

This flexibility has been especially impactful for single parents. Pasmore shared a story of a mother whose child, previously unable to thrive in traditional daycare settings, found a place in their overnight program. This tailored approach allowed the mother to maintain employment while her child received the support and care needed to flourish. 

“It’s stories like this that remind us why we do what we do,” she notes​.

Childcare as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

Affordable and accessible childcare isn’t just a benefit to families—it’s a critical component of economic development in the region. By providing care that aligns with diverse working hours, A Step Above Learning Society has enabled more parents to participate in the workforce and pursue further education. 

Pasmore observes, “We’re seeing a lot of moms going back to school. That’s been a huge positive knowing that affordable childcare allows them to get an education and build a better future for their families.”​

Households in Grande Prairie often rely on dual incomes, and access to these services has made a significant difference. It’s contributing to a stronger local workforce, as more parents can pursue jobs and training, filling gaps in key sectors.

Image

A Bright Future for Childcare in Grande Prairie

The future is promising for childcare in Grande Prairie. With a collaborative spirit among local organizations like the Grande Prairie Family Education Society and early learning programs, the community is working together to create a network of support for families. Events such as community mixers are helping build connections and ensure that local kids get the best start possible.

As Grande Prairie continues to grow, facilities like A Step Above Learning Society are at the forefront of this progress, showing how adapting to the needs of families can create a brighter future for everyone. With their innovative approach and commitment to the community, they’re proving that when childcare meets the needs of families, the whole city benefits.