Question 1

What is the difference between daycare and preschool?

Accepted Answer

Daycare provides full-day care year-round for infants through pre-kindergarten, combining supervision with early learning. Preschool is typically part-day (2–4 hours), focused on children aged 2.5–5, and often follows a school-year calendar. Both can be high quality — the right choice depends on your work schedule, your child's age, and the programs available near you.

Question 2

What types of childcare are common in BC?

Accepted Answer

Licensed options include: group child care centres (infant, toddler, preschool, or school-age), licensed family child care (in a provider's home, smaller groups), multi-age programs, preschools (part-day), and occasional care (short-term or drop-in). Unlicensed options like nannies and informal arrangements also exist but are not regulated. For peace of mind, licensed care is always recommended.

Question 3

What does "licensed" childcare mean in BC?

Accepted Answer

Licensed childcare in BC is regulated by the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) and must meet provincial standards for health and safety, staff qualifications and ratios, space and equipment, and record-keeping. Licensed facilities are inspected regularly and must display their licence. This creates accountability and a clear path to raise concerns if needed. Every daycare on raisin is licensed.

Question 4

Are there unlicensed daycares in BC?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some unlicensed care is technically legal in BC when caring for a small number of children (fewer than 3 unrelated children in some situations), but it is not routinely inspected, has no mandatory staff training requirements, and offers no regulatory oversight. raisin only lists licensed daycares for your family's safety.

Question 5

When should I start looking for daycare in BC?

Accepted Answer

In Metro Vancouver, families often start during pregnancy — especially for infant and toddler spots, which are the scarcest. Waitlists of 12–24 months are common for popular centres. A good rule of thumb: start as soon as you know your care start date, even if it feels too early. The earlier you apply, the more options you'll have.

Question 6

What is Montessori education?

Accepted Answer

Montessori is a child-led approach where educators prepare a carefully designed environment with hands-on materials. Children choose activities independently, build focus and self-regulation, and practice practical life skills. The quality of a Montessori program depends heavily on trained staff and consistent practice — not just the label. Look for trained AMI or AMS-certified educators.

Question 7

What is Reggio Emilia?

Accepted Answer

The Reggio Emilia approach is a child-centred, project-based philosophy that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Learning is documented through photos, notes, and portfolios. The environment is treated as a "third teacher." Programs vary significantly in how closely they follow this approach — ask specifically about their training and documentation practices.

Question 8

What is play-based learning?

Accepted Answer

Play-based learning uses play as the primary vehicle for children to explore the world, develop language, practice social skills, and build early literacy and numeracy. Strong programs blend free play with intentional educator guidance — the educator sets up rich environments, asks open questions, and extends children's thinking. Research consistently shows play-based approaches support healthy development for children under 6.

Question 9

What is the $10-a-Day ChildCareBC program?

Accepted Answer

The $10-a-Day ChildCareBC program is a provincial initiative where participating licensed childcare providers reduce their fees significantly — with a goal of $10/day for eligible families. Not all providers participate, and availability varies by area and age group. The program is expanding gradually. To find participating providers, use the "Subsidy accepted" filter in raisin search, or visit childcarebc.ca for the full list.

Question 10

Is $10-a-Day the same as subsidy?

Accepted Answer

No — they are two different programs that can sometimes be used together. The $10-a-Day program is a provider-side arrangement where participating centres charge lower fees. The Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB) is a separate income-tested benefit paid directly to eligible families each month to help offset childcare costs. To check your ACCB eligibility and estimate your benefit, visit gov.bc.ca/childcaresubsidy.

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