Yellowknife, N.W.T. - Wednesday was theme day at the Legislative Assembly and several MLAs stood to talk about the need for an early childhood development strategy in the NWT.

Each statement focused on such things as developing a new kindergarten curriculum, increased programs for kids from birth to age eight and better collaboration between all stakeholders in the NWT, which is the route Range Lake MLA Daryl Dolynny took.

Dolynny said an increased sharing of information needs to be more than just the flavour of the month.

"We cannot put too much emphasis on ensuring that our children are properly nurtured, encouraged, and protected, especially during those early years, zero to three years of age, which serves as a critical foundation for lifelong development and success."

Frame Lake MLA Wendy Bisaro said action is needed now because it will be too late if problems aren't addressed at an early stage.

"If we wait to start early intervention until preschool or kindergarten we've missed a huge opportunity to address any health or learning issues at an age when intervention can really make a difference."

Inuvik Boot Lake MLA Alfred Moses introduced a motion calling on the departments of Education, Culture and Employment, and Health and Social Services to submit proposals on early childhood development programming within the next 120 days.

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