Your Guide to Choosing Childcare in British Columbia
Navigating the world of childcare can be a daunting task for any parent. Every family is unique, and their childcare needs vary accordingly. Whether you're a working parent, a stay-at-home mom, or somewhere in between, finding the right childcare solution is a significant decision.
There's no one-size-fits-all option. The childcare spectrum offers an array of options, each catering to different family dynamics.
In this blog, we will explore the diverse landscape of childcare choices in British Columbia and the various factors that set them apart. So, if you don't know where to start when looking for childcare, keep reading to find which childcare option is right for you.
Types of Childcare
There are four different types of childcare in British Columbia:
Licensed care
Registered licence-not-required
Licence-not-required
In-child’s-own-home
We'll go through each type and examples of each.
Licensed Care
Licensed care involves childcare facilities that are regularly monitored and inspected by health authorities. These include group childcare options such as daycare centers and schools.
Licensed care is a good option for parents who want their children to socialize with others in a structured environment. It’s one of the default options for new parents, but they also have long waitlists. In Vancouver, the average waitlist time is around 16 months. There are good alternatives though, read on to find out more!
Registered License-Not-Required
Registered licence-not-required (LNR) caregivers are unlicensed childcare professionals registered with a Child Care Resource and Referral Centre (CCRR). These caregivers take care of children in the provider's own home, providing a daycare-like experience for up to two children or a sibling group. Additionally, they can only care for children up to the age of twelve.
Here are some of the requirements for registered LNR caregivers to register:
Criminal record checks
Character references
A home safety assessment
First aid training
Childcare training courses or workshops (at least 20 hours)
At least 19 years of age
Relevant job experience
While not subject to regular health and safety inspections, registered LNR providers gain access to support training, resources, and group liability insurance.
Registered licence-not-required childcare is great for parents seeking individualized care for their children outside of their home while ensuring the caregivers are pre-vetted.
Licence-Not-Required
Licence-not-required (LNR) providers, like registered LNR professionals, care for children in their own homes. Again, this would be a daycare-like situation for up to two children or a sibling group, however, LNR providers can care for children of any age.
Unlike registered providers, these LNR providers don't have any specific qualification requirements. They also aren't required to have regular safety inspections. Parents and guardians are responsible for overseeing the childcare and safety of their children.
Licence-not-required childcare is suitable for parents who prefer individualized care outside their home and are comfortable screening caregivers themselves.
In-Child’s-Own-Home
In-child's-own-home caregivers provide childcare services from the comfort of the child's home. Examples of this arrangement would be hiring a nanny, au pair, or babysitter. In-home childcare offers personalized care within the comfort of the child's home and often includes activities like playtime, educational support, and light housekeeping.
In-child's-own-home care is not subject to monitoring and has no specific qualifications for the childcare providers. It is up to the parents or guardians to screen and hire childcare professionals.
That's where AmbiMi comes in...
How AmbiMi Helps
AmbiMi simplifies the hiring process by helping you find in-child's-own-home caregivers through our app. Our platform empowers parents to take control of the hiring process, giving you the tools and resources you need to make an informed decision.
All AmbiMi's caregivers are pre-vetted, undergoing an initial screening call, in-person interview, resume and document review, and reference checks. We review work permits, experience, CPR, and first aid. This helps you navigate the screening process with ease so you can find a caregiver who aligns with your family's values.
We're here to make your childcare journey as smooth as possible, providing you peace of mind while choosing the right caregiver for your family.