Childcare Options in Victoria
Families in Greater Victoria use a mix of licensed centres, home-based care, and private arrangements. Each comes with its own pros, cons, and price tags.
Daycares & Preschools
Licensed group childcare centres (sometimes called daycares or preschools) are regulated by Island Health and must meet staff-to-child ratios, safety standards, and curriculum requirements. Some offer full-day care, others run shorter preschool-style programs (e.g. mornings only).
Examples in Victoria:
- Fernwood NRG Childcare – a well-loved non-profit offering infant/toddler and 3–5 care.
- Parklane Preschool – licensed preschool offering full and half day options with a nature program.
- Kids & Company (Downtown Victoria) – part of a national chain, offering flexible schedules.
- Victoria Montessori – preschool programs with a Montessori philosophy.
Licensed Family Child Care
These are smaller, home-based providers licensed through Island Health. Many families like the cozy feel and smaller group sizes. For example, you’ll find family daycares in neighbourhoods from Saanich to Langford that are licensed and still benefit from government funding programs.
Registered Licence-Not-Required (LNR)
Registered LNRs can care for up to two unrelated children (or a sibling group) in their own home. They are not licensed, but they register through the local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR), complete background checks, and take training. Many operate quietly in neighbourhoods across the city.
Note: Unregistered home providers can also care for up to two unrelated children, but without oversight. This option can be affordable and flexible, but due diligence is important. Ask for references, tour the home, and make sure you feel confident.
Nannies & Nanny-Shares
Hiring a nanny means bringing care into your own home. Some families split the cost with another household in a nanny-share arrangement. This option provides one-on-one attention and flexibility with hours, but comes with added responsibilities (payroll, contracts, backup care).
Websites like NannyServices.ca or Canadian Nanny are commonly used in Victoria to connect with caregivers. Families also post in local Facebook groups when looking to form a nanny-share.
Funding & Subsidy Programs
Childcare is expensive, but BC has several programs to help offset costs.
- Affordable Child Care Benefit: Monthly support for eligible families, based on income, family size, and type of care.
- Fee Reduction Initiative: Many licensed centres opt into this program, reducing fees by up to ~$900/month per child.
- $10-a-Day ChildCareBC Sites: Victoria has a handful of $10/day centres, including Fairfield Gonzales Community Association Childcare and Burnside Gorge Childcare. These spaces are highly sought after, but it’s worth applying.
- ECE Wage Enhancement & Operating Funding: These programs flow to providers to help pay staff and keep fees down.
Always ask providers if they participate in these programs because it can make a huge difference in your monthly budget.
Where to Find a Spot in Victoria
Finding childcare here isn’t just about choosing the right model — it’s about knowing where to look and casting a wide net.
- Go Direct: Reach out to centres near home or work. Many, like Oak Bay Preschool, Fernwood NRG, and Pacific Montessori, have their own waitlist forms.
- Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR): Victoria CCRR (childcarevictoria.org) offers free referrals and can connect you with licensed and registered LNR providers.
- Facebook Groups: Popular groups like Childcare in Greater Victoria, BC 2.0 often share open spots, nanny-share opportunities, or home daycare availability.
- Online Directories: The BC government’s Childcare Map lists licensed providers. Websites like MovingToVictoria.com also maintain childcare lists.
- NannyServices.ca & CanadianNanny.com: Helpful for nannies, babysitters, and household help.
- Word of Mouth: In Victoria’s tight-knit communities, asking other parents at the playground or Strong Start programs often yields leads you won’t find online.
Pro tip: Many families get on multiple waitlists before their child turns one. Some even apply while pregnant!
What to Look For
When touring a centre or meeting a provider, ask:
- Do you participate in the Fee Reduction or $10-a-Day program?
- What’s your caregiver-to-child ratio?
- What’s your daily schedule (meals, naps, outdoor play)?
- How do you handle illness, holidays, or staff absences?
- What’s the waitlist process and typical timelines?
And trust your instincts. The vibe of the space and how staff interact with kids is just as important as policies.
Final Thoughts
Childcare in Victoria is tough, but remember: it doesn’t have to be perfect, just safe and supportive for your little one. Stay persistent, keep talking to other parents, and remember that sometimes the “temporary solution” ends up being the best fit of all.
