Atkinson Centre for Society & Child Development
Atkinson Centre for Society and Child Development
Established in 2000, the Atkinson Centre for Society and Child Development strives to mobilize the best available evidence to strengthen the quality of early childhood practice and inform public policy and discourse. In partnership with George Brown College's School of Early Childhood, the Centre provides training in policy research to undergraduate and graduate students. The Centre is guided by an understanding of the reciprocal nature of research, policy and practice and works in collaboration with advocates and researchers across Canada.
Spotlight
The Atkinson Centre produces a weekly e-Newsletter, sharing Events, News Items, and Research & Resources related to Early Childhood Education and Family Support.
Summer Institute 2025: Empowering Educators: Strategies for a Sustainable Workforce
VIDEOS & PRESENTATIONS BEING POSTED!
The 21st Annual Summer Institute on Early Childhood Development was a dynamic gathering dedicated to strengthening the early childhood education (ECE) workforce. The conference brought together educators, administrators, policymakers, researchers, and advocates from across Canada to explore innovative strategies for fostering a sustainable ECE workforce while addressing critical issues of equity and access. Presentations and Videos now being posted!
A Better Together Podcast Series
Bright Beginnings: Insights into Early Childhood Education is a podcast series that explores key issues, innovations, and lived experiences shaping the early learning and child care sector in Canada. Across eight English-language episodes—and a ninth French-language episode in development—expert guests, including educators, researchers, and sector leaders, discuss topics ranging from the benefits of ECE for children, families, and society, to gender diversity, inclusion, and how the ECE system works in Ontario and beyond.
Each episode is accompanied by transcriptions and French translations, as well as supporting modules that include resources and reflective questions—making the series a valuable tool for learners, educators, and advocates alike. Bright Beginnings is both an accessible entry point and a deeper dive into the vital role of early childhood education in creating a more equitable future.
Most Recent Policy Monitor Updates
The Policy Monitor tracks Federal, Provincial and Territorial early childhood policy initiatives, developments and announcements.
Events
Belonging from the Start: Inclusion in the Early Years with Dr. David Philpott
NOVEMBER 18, 2025
Join us for an engaging conversation with Dr. David Philpott in our Beyond the Podcast series, as we explore the vital role of inclusion in early childhood programs. Dr. Philpott will discuss the importance of the environment as the “third teacher” and how children learn with, from, and about one another—when diversity itself becomes the curriculum.
This session will also highlight what makes strong public policy to ensure that all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Every Child Belongs: Gender Expansiveness and 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusion in the Early Years (Webinar)
JULY 23, 2025 | Video now posted!
In this virtual session Shailja Jain, Professor & Coordinator, School of Early Childhood, George Brown College, explored practical strategies and inclusive practices to support gender diversity and 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion in early childhood settings.
