YELLOWKNIFE (March 31, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories invites parents or primary caregivers of babies born between April 2014 and April 2015 to apply to participate in the testing phase of the iPad Mini for New Parents project being launched by Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) today.
Between early April and end of May 2015, 100 iPad Minis will be distributed across the NWT as part of a project to support early childhood development by providing new parents and primary caregivers with innovative tools and information, one of the actions identified in Right from the Start, the NWT framework and action plan for early childhood development.
“The NWT children are the future of our territory, and we want to work with new parents to provide the best opportunities and foundation right from the start,” said Minister of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Jackson Lafferty.
All information provided on the iPad Minis has been recommended by Northern Elders, leaders, parents and families, and early childhood consultants, and has been verified by experts.
Feedback from pilot project participants will be used to measure the usefulness of the apps, resources, and functionality of the iPad as a tool for new parents. The full distribution phase of the project will be launched in early fall after pilot phase evaluation.
“These iPad Minis are a helpful information tool for new parents and primary caregivers, offering practical information and innovative apps,” stated Minister Lafferty. “With this tool, we are able to provide access to information about parenting using a familiar medium, at the time it is needed.”
In 2013-14, the Departments of Health and Social Services and Education, Culture and Employment tabled the Right from the Start: A Framework and Action Plan for Early Childhood Development in the Northwest Territories. These documents include commitments and areas for action, aimed at providing innovative outreach programs and services for families and children; to ensure that no one is left behind.
For detailed information please visit: www.ece.gov.nt.ca or www.rightfromthestart.ca.
Media inquiries:
Jacqueline McKinnon
Education, Culture and Employment
Tel: 867-920-6222