Memo to Media from NCDHHS: ​Shifting Language From Day Care to Child Care | Eastern North Carolina Now

Press Release:

    Are you still using "day care" or "daycare" in news articles and headlines about early childhood education or child care? If so, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services asks journalists to update their language. For purposes of brevity, child care is the common term used, although early care and learning, early childhood education and early learning are also widely used.

    "Day care" is an antiquated term that does not define what children experience or what early childhood teachers provide. At best, it's inaccurate - nobody cares for days - and at worst, it ignores the science of healthy development at the expense of young children, their families and early childhood teachers.

    Research has conclusively shown the importance of children's earliest years and the value of quality early childhood education provided by skilled teachers. The brain is developing more rapidly during children's early years of life than at any other time. The experiences they have in their first five years build the foundation for future health, behavior and learning. Children who receive quality childhood education are better prepared to learn, experience fewer special education placements and decreased grade retention and are more likely to read by the fourth grade, graduate school, go on to college and be employed than peers who do not participate in such programs.

    Updating language to reflect new knowledge and social norms is common. Rehabilitation centers were once called "convalescent homes." Schools for the deaf and hard of hearing were once called "schools for the deaf and dumb." Academic support programs were once called "remedial classes." Children's homes were once called "orphanages." These updated terms have helped to reduce stigma, have a positive impact on well-being, provide clearer and contemporary understanding and promote dignity and respect.

    Given the science of early brain development and the trained early childhood teachers who advance child development, it is imperative the words used to describe what children experience - and need to experience - are accurate and informative. "Day care" does not meet that standard.

• NC Department of Health and Human Services
• 2001 Mail Service Center
• Raleigh, NC 27699-2001
• Ph: (919) 855-4840
• news@dhhs.nc.gov