Understanding the Types of Child Care in B.C.

Understanding the Types of Child Care in B.C.

Choosing the right type of child care is one of the most important decisions for families in North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and across Metro Vancouver. British Columbia offers various child care options to suit the diverse needs of parents, guardians, and children. Whether you're looking for full-time licensed child care, part-time preschool programs, or occasional drop-in services, it's essential to understand what’s available and what fits your family best.

At StartCan Business Consulting, we support entrepreneurs starting and growing child care businesses, and we often get questions from families and business owners alike about the types of care permitted in B.C. This guide provides an overview of each child care type recognized in British Columbia.

1. Licensed Child Care in B.C.

Licensed child care facilities are monitored and regularly inspected by local health authorities and must follow strict regulations for safety, staffing, programming, and child-to-staff ratios. These centres are ideal for families seeking structured care in a regulated environment.

Licensed care options include:

• Group Child Care (Under 3 years) – Maximum of 12 children with qualified Infant Toddler Educators and Early Childhood Educators (ECEs).

• Group Child Care (30 months to school age) – Up to 25 children; staff must have ECE and/or ECE Assistant certification.

• School-Age Care (Before and After School) – Offered at community centres or school grounds; requires responsible adults with first aid and child care-related training.

• Preschool Programs (30 months to school age) – Often part-day and follow the school calendar.

• Occasional Child Care – Drop-in care for up to 8 hours a day and no more than 40 hours/month.

• Multi-Age and In-Home Multi-Age Care – Care for children from birth to 12 years, provided by a licensed ECE in a facility or the provider’s residence.

• Family Child Care – In the provider’s home with a maximum of 7 children.

• Recreational Care – Supervised programs offered in parks or community centres with flexible group sizes.

Licensed child care is a popular choice in Burnaby, Coquitlam, and North Vancouver, where families prioritize safety and certified caregivers.

2. Registered Licence-Not-Required (RLNR) Child Care

This type of care is not licensed but providers are registered with a Child Care Resource and Referral Centre. To be registered, caregivers must pass safety assessments, criminal record checks, and complete child care training. These providers operate out of their homes and care for a limited number of children.

Why families in West Vancouver and Metro Vancouver choose RLNR care:

• More flexible and often more affordable

• Smaller group settings

• Some access to government subsidies

3. Licence-Not-Required (Unregistered) Child Care

These providers are legally allowed to care for up to two children (or a sibling group) who are not related to them, but they are not licensed or registered. There is no official oversight, so families must do their own due diligence.

This option is often used by parents who prefer informal or flexible care, but it requires careful vetting by the family to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

4. In-Home Child Care (Nannies or Babysitters)

This type of care is arranged directly by families who hire someone to care for their child in their own home. It’s suitable for parents who want one-on-one care or have non-traditional work schedules.

Important considerations for in-home care:

• You are the employer and responsible for payroll, taxes (CPP, EI), and WorkSafeBC registration

• No licensing or specific qualifications are required

• Ideal for families with infants or special needs

Helpful Links and Resources for Starting a Child Care Business in Metro Vancouver

If you're planning to start a licensed child care facility or in-home daycare in North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, or anywhere across Metro Vancouver, it's essential to understand provincial regulations and access the right tools. Review the Community Care and Assisted Living Act and the Child Care Licensing Regulation to ensure your business meets all legal requirements. You can also explore the official types of child care in B.C. to decide which model best fits your goals. To become a certified Early Childhood Educator, visit the ECE Registry, or find local training through BCCIE. Local support is available through child care resource centres such as Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre, North Shore CCRR, Burnaby CCRR, and Tri-Cities CCRR. If you're hiring a nanny or in-home caregiver, make sure to follow guidelines from WorkSafeBC.

Looking to Start a Child Care Business in Metro Vancouver?

With the rising demand for quality child care in North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, and Coquitlam, now is a great time to explore launching a child care centre or home-based service.

At StartCan Business Consulting, we help aspiring child care providers:

• Understand licensing requirements

• Write business plans tailored for child care

• Assess feasibility and market demand

• Apply for funding and small business loans

Whether you're starting a licensed facility in Burnaby, offering preschool programs in Coquitlam, or running in-home care in North Vancouver, we’re here to support your success.

Need Help Navigating Child Care Options or Starting Your Business?

Book your free 30-minute consultation with a StartCan advisor today. We serve clients across Metro Vancouver, including North and West Vancouver, Burnaby, and Coquitlam.