How much does childcare cost in Victoria?
The cost of childcare in BC ranges from $200 to $1,870 per month for full-time care of infants to 5-year-olds, depending on the provider. Full-time childcare refers to 5 days a week for 8-9 hours per day.
Childcare providers in BC are not required to publicly post their pricing. In terms of licensing, childcare providers do not need a license to operate legally in BC. There are two types of childcare available: licensed and “license-not-required” (LNR). An individual ECE (Early Childhood Educator), nanny, or babysitter typically falls under LNR. LNR providers can only care for up to two non-related children, in addition to their own.
How do I enroll my child in daycare in Victoria?
Getting a spot in a childcare centre in Canada and Victoria, BC can be challenging due to a shortage of available openings. Many parents put their child’s name on multiple waiting lists at different centres. Each daycare has its own acceptance policy, which they use to decide who gets priority when a spot opens up. Some daycare centres offer a waiting list through their website, email or phone. If a centre has a waiting list, they decide who gets priority, which may include families with existing children at the centre or those who have been in contact with them while on the waiting list. If a centre does not have a waiting list, parents can improve their chances of securing a spot by staying in touch with the centre through email, phone, or visits to show their interest. Additionally, a guide is available for families who are expecting a baby in Victoria.