A Game-Changer for Working Families and Young Children
Affordable, high-quality childcare just got a major boost in Parksville and Qualicum Beach. As part of the $10-a-Day ChildCareBC initiative, families in these communities will now have access to significantly more affordable child care options — a welcome relief for many households juggling work and parenting. This new $10-a-Day Childcare program is set to benefit many families.
What’s New in Parksville and Qualicum?
The Parksville Child and Family Centre is transitioning 111 existing child care spaces to the $10-a-day model. Meanwhile, Qualicum Beach Elementary will soon add 75 new spaces thanks to support from the New Spaces Fund. Both centers are integral to the $10-a-Day Childcare initiative.
These efforts are part of a broader expansion across British Columbia, with 770 new spaces being added across 22 centres. This steady rollout reflects the provincial government’s goal of providing accessible, affordable, and inclusive child care for every family. Learn more about the ChildCareBC goals and milestones.
Why This Matters for Local Families
Child care in B.C. has traditionally cost families around $1,115 per month for full-time, center-based care for children under five. With the $10-a-Day Childcare program, that cost drops to approximately $200 per month — a $915 monthly savings per child.
Since 2018, the ChildCareBC plan has led to over 40,000 new spaces, with more than 16,000 already operating at the $10-a-day rate. It’s a move that’s not just economic — it’s transformational for young families benefiting from the $10-a-Day Childcare initiative.
For more tips on navigating parent support services in BC, visit the Family and Social Supports Portal.
How Families Can Benefit Today
- Check Eligibility: Contact the Parksville Child and Family Centre or your local school district to inquire about current space availability.
- Apply Early: Demand is expected to grow, so check out the ChildCareBC application process for guidance.
- Use Available Tools: Parents can explore child care fee reduction programs and access subsidies based on income to further reduce costs.
As B.C. moves toward a more inclusive and family-friendly future, programs like this one serve as key stepping stones. The $10-a-Day Childcare initiative isn’t just a funding update — it’s a commitment to equity, opportunity, and long-term child development in communities like Parksville and Qualicum.
