June 13, 2018
Edmonton businesses can now sign up through Child Friendly Edmonton to be recognized as a welcoming space for children and their families.
The Child Friendly Business Recognition Program encourages businesses to be intentionally welcoming to children, families and caregivers through the program’s “Triple A” categories: attitude, amenities and activities.
“We want to share this new program with the city and highlight the current successes of local businesses who have become more child-friendly,” said Councillor Bev Esslinger. “With more than 20 per cent of the population being under 18, it’s very important that kids feel welcomed and included in their city.”
There are a number of simple improvements businesses can make to become more child-friendly, including providing appropriate seating for children, activity/colouring sheets and washrooms that can be used by all genders.
Councillors Bev Esslinger and Aaron Paquette were on hand to help launch the program, which is now accepting applications for the growing list of over 30 child-friendly businesses in Edmonton.
“Our vision is to create a vibrant, safe and welcoming city for all children and families,” said Councillor Aaron Paquette. “When more spaces become available for them to be included and contribute, their sense of ownership, pride and voice in their community grows.”
The Downtown Business Association shared its support of the program, encouraging members to explore ways to be more welcoming to families, such as posting hours where children are welcome.
“The Downtown Business Association has been working hard to ensure that we continue to make downtown more inclusive, eclectic and inviting,” said Ian O’Donnell, Executive Director of the Downtown Business Association. “We want to improve the family-friendly nature of downtown and continue to work with our member businesses towards a downtown for everyone.”
Parents can also nominate and share feedback on businesses through social media using the hashtag #ChildFriendlyYEG.
