BC'S CHILDCARE SYSTEM
PRESENTATION 2024
Join us as we explore the essential elements of child care in British Columbia. This presentation serves as a guide to valuable resources and links, empowering you to navigate the child care system effectively on your own.
Who I Am – Pioneer of the Child Care System in BC
Founder & CEO of Wundoroo Academy
Olesya Wyman
Over 15 years of experience in child care, working with CCD, Reach, RMCAL.
Pioneer in child care in BC, with a focus on inclusivity and community involvement.
Opening of Surrey (2010 yr.) and Maple Ridge (2023 yr.) locations, expanding services to meet the needs of diverse families
Introduction to BC's Childcare System
Agenda for Today’s Workshop
Funding and Support for Families
Inclusive Practices
Q&A Session
Types of Child Care Services
Health and Safety Standards
6
Educational Aspect
What Will We Talk About Today?
Role of Health Authorities in Inspections
2
1
Overview of Child Care Licensing Regulations (CCLR)
Health Policies and Safety Standards
4
3
Available Childcare Funding
5
Daily Routines, Entry Process, and More
What is CCLR?
Health and safety standards
Staffing qualifications
Facility requirements
The Child Care Licensing Regulation (CCLR) provides rules and regulations for the operation of licensed child care facilities. Key Focus: Ensuring the safety and well-being of children in care.
Service Type | Age Group | Staff-to-Child Ratio | Description |
Group Care (Under 36 Months) | Children under 36 months | 1 staff member per 4 children | Structured care in a center for infants and toddlers. |
Group Care (3-5 Years) | Children aged 3 to 5 years | 1 staff member per 8 children | Structured care in a center for preschool-aged children. |
Family Child Care | Mixed age groups (under 12 years) | 1 staff member per 7 children | Child care provided in a home setting, serving a mix of ages. |
Multi-Age Care | Mixed age groups (under 12 years) | 1 staff member per 8 children | Care for children of various ages in a single setting, offering more flexibility. |
In-Home Multi-Age Care | Mixed age groups (under 12 years) | 1 staff member per 8 children | Similar to family child care but within the caregiver’s home, serving multiple ages. |
Preschool | Children aged 30 months to school age | 1 staff member per 10 children | Early learning-focused program, typically part-day, preparing children for school. |
Nanny Services
Parent Participation Preschools
What Other Childcare Options Are Available for Families?
Unlicensed Child Care
Unlicensed child care providers (LNR). Encouraged - but not required - to register with their local Child Care Resource and Referral Program (CCRR). Limited to two children or one sibling group.
Increased Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB) rates.
Families can hire nannies or babysitters for in-home care. Nannies offer personalized attention and flexible hours but may not follow formal childcare regulations.
Parents volunteer in the classroom, supporting teachers and daily operations. Promotes involvement and strengthens learning through community.
Role of Health Authorities:
Inspections:
Licensing, inspections, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
Routine inspections ensure that facilities remain compliant with regulations.
Role of Fraser Health and Coastal Health Authorities
Link to All Facilities Licensed by Fraser Health
Link to All Facilities Licensed by Coastal Health
Overview
Programs
Child care in BC is subsidized for both parents and providers through multiple funding programs, making it more affordable.
Funding for Child Care – Available for Parents and Providers
Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI) is a program designed to help make child care more affordable for families across British Columbia by lowering monthly fees for parents. Licensed child care providers who participate in the initiative pass these savings directly to families. Link: CCFRI Details
What is CCFRI?
Income Level (CAD) | Maximum Monthly Benefit (per child) |
$0 - $45,000 | Up to $1,250 |
$45,001 - $65,000 | Up to $950 |
$65,001 - $80,000 | Up to $700 |
$80,001 - $100,000 | Up to $450 |
Above $100,000 | Up to $150 |
What is ACCB and Access Amounts?
The ACCB is a financial assistance program designed to help families cover the cost of child care in British Columbia. The amount a family receives depends on their income level, the number of children, and the type of care they need.
How to Apply for Child Care Benefits
Gather Required Documents
2
1
Check Eligibility
Submit the Application Online
4
3
Complete the Child Care Arrangements Form
5
Wait for Approval
6
Receive Your Benefit
Immunization – Mandatory or Not?
No, immunization is not mandatory for children in child care facilities in BC. However, facilities are required to track immunization records to ensure the safety and health of all children. Link
Why Track Immunizations?
Parents who decide not to immunize their children can submit an Immunization Waiver to the child care facility. This waiver allows them to opt out of the vaccination requirements while ensuring that the facility still tracks the child's health status for safety purposes.
Immunization Waiver
Submit records to the facility
IMMUNIZATION
DO
DON’T
Submit a waiver.
Health Policy and Meals
Meal Policies: Facilities may offer hot lunches or require packed meals.
Child care facilities in BC are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure that meals meet the province's health standards for children. These standards promote balanced nutrition and safety.
Child care facilities are required to provide a rest or nap period for young children during the day. Rest is essential for children's development, helping them recharge both mentally and physically.
Sleep Schedule and Arrangements
Visit # | Day | Duration of Stay | Babyroos/Toddleroos Description (Link) | Wundoroos Description (Link) |
1 | Day 1 | 9 am to 11 am | Visit with a parent; child becomes familiar with the environment. Parents share daily schedule details. | Child visits for a short period to familiarize with the environment. |
2 | Day 2 | 8:30 am to 11 am | Child stays without a parent for a short period; learns that parents will return. | Child stays for a slightly longer period. |
3 | Day 3 | 8:30 am to 4 pm latest | Slightly longer stay to reinforce the experience of Visit 2. | Gradually extends the child's time at the center. |
4 | Not Applicable | Not Applicable | Child stays for lunch and nap; reinforces trust and routine upon waking (8:30 am to approx. 2:30 pm). | Not applicable |
Subsequent Visits | Varies | Pick up no later than 4 pm | Gradually increase time at the center. | Gradually increase time at the center. |
Gradual entry is a phased transition designed to help children ease into the child care environment. This process allows children to gradually get accustomed to their new surroundings, caregivers, and routines, reducing separation anxiety and ensuring a smoother adjustment.
Gradual Entry
Educational Aspect
Play-Based Learning
1
Curriculum and Early Learning Framework
2
Educational Aspect
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
3
The responsibility for child care was transferred from the Ministry of Child and Family Development to the newly created Ministry of Education and Child Care (MECC) in April 20221.
This change was part of a broader effort to integrate child care more closely with the education system and to provide a more cohesive approach to early learning and child care in British Columbia.
VISITING THE FACILITY – OPEN-DOOR POLICY
At our child care facility, we welcome and encourage parents to visit anytime during operating hours. This policy fosters transparency and trust, ensuring parents feel confident in their child’s care.
Responsibilities of Parties – Contract at Registration
During registration, both the facility and parents sign a child care contract that outlines the responsibilities of both parties. This document ensures clear expectations and a mutual understanding of the care arrangement.
Facility Responsibilities
Clear terms
Parent Responsibilities
Conflict resolution
Registration Fee vs Refundable Deposit
Understanding the Difference
When enrolling in our child care facility, families may encounter two types of payments: the registration fee and the refundable deposit. It's important to know how each works.
Registration or Waitlist Fee:
Refundable Deposit:
Our child care facility uses Closed-Circuit Television (CTV) to enhance security and safety for children. However, all CTV systems are operated in strict compliance with the BC Privacy Act to safeguard the privacy and personal information of both children and families.
CTV and Privacy Act
Inclusiveness
Partnerships with families and specialists ensure every child feels valued and understood. Autism BC.
Community Integration
Facilities partner with Reach, CCD, and Ridge Meadowes Centre to support children with unique needs.
Specialized Support
Programs support children of all abilities with individualized care for inclusive participation.
Inclusive Practices
Child care facilities are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child is welcomed, regardless of their abilities or needs.
Child Care Resource and Referral Program (CCRR)
The CCRR program is designed to assist families in many different ways, including finding licensed child care that meets their specific needs and preferences, comepleting ACCB forms and much more.
Dispute Resolution and Reporting System
Filing Complaints
Families can file complaints related to licensing, safety, and quality of care directly with Fraser Health or Vancouver Coastal Health.
Support from Licensing Officers
Licensed professionals are available to assist families in navigating the complaint process, ensuring their concerns are addressed effectively.
Ensuring Quality Care
The system is designed to uphold high standards in child care facilities, promoting accountability and continuous improvement.
Families have access to a formal dispute resolution and reporting system to address any concerns regarding child care services.
Wundoroo Academy Website and Resources
Explore a wealth of resources, policies, and additional support available to families on our website.
Resource Library:
Support Services:
Updates and News:
GET IN TOUCH
778-886-0393
www.wundoroo.com
wundoroo.academy@gmail.com
OFFER: Consultation and childcare support.
Founder & CEO of Wundoroo Academy
Olesya Wyman