Understanding the Early Years (UEY) was a national initiative, funded by Human Resources and Social Development Canada. UEY enables communities across Canada to better understand the needs of their young children and families so that they can determine the best programs and services to meet those needs. UEY also works to promote collaboration and the sharing of expertise, in and among communities, and provides a foundation on which to increase understanding. By communicating findings to a wide audience, UEY encourages dialogue and contributes to the pool of local, provincial and national knowledge.

The Understanding the Early Years projects in the Niagara region of Ontario have been completed. However, the reports, communiqu's, presentations and information on activities are still available. Visit the UEY website for full project information.