With the increasing possibility of a teachers strike in Nova Scotia, many parents say they’re going to cross that bridge when they come to it.
"I've just been assuming that they'll work things out,” said Halifax parent Amanda Thurbide. “That's my hope. I’m sure that's everybody's hope."
The Nova Scotia Teachers Union and the provincial government have yet to come to an agreement on a potential work stoppage set to begin in early December.
"If one was to actually happen, absolutely it would be a problem," said Thurbide.
Teachers union president Liette Doucet told CTV News Tuesday night that parents may have a short window to make alternate plans for their child's care.
"We have to give a minimum of 48 hours’ notice,” said Doucet. “The provincial executive will come in, they will decide if we are going to give more notice or just 48 hours. So what I can tell you is if we take job action on Dec. 5, you will know by Friday the 2nd."
After school program directors and daycare owners are starting to receive phone calls from some concerned parents.
"It's just like bad snowy weather, right?” said daycare owner Eloise Baiet. “I think they're only going to be on strike for a couple of days before they're mandated back to work, so we can do anything for three days."
Parents say it's more than just class time that will be lost. The extra-curricular activities, such as Christmas concerts would be in jeopardy.
"From September to December (students) look forward to getting dressed up, singing the carols, the festivities – it's heartbreaking," said parent Amanda Colley.
Some parents say they’ve been communicating with other parents to take care of each other’s children should a strike occur – anything to make things easier for families.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Suzette Belliveau.
