When childcare is affordable and accessible, it doesn’t just support children — it strengthens families, communities, and the economy.
But in Squamish and across the Sea to Sky Corridor, access to licensed childcare remains a major challenge. According to the Squamish Child Care Action Plan, there is just one licensed childcare space for every five children under 12, and only 20% of infants and toddlers have access to licensed care.
We’re working to change that and we recently opened the new Mén̓mens ta smánit childcare centre at Valleycliffe.
‘$10 a Day’ Childcare Is Changing Lives
One of the most impactful aspects of SSCS’s childcare offerings is affordability.
Due to our participation in the $10 a Day ChildCareBC program, 180 of our 236 licensed spaces offer care at just $10 per day — a game-changer for working families in our region.
Affordable care means:
- Parents can return to work without financial strain
- Children access early learning that sets them up for success
- Families can thrive, not just get by.
“Absolutely amazing! We feel lucky to be part of this program!” — Parent in one of our $10 A Day ChildCareBC centre
Learn more about this initiative on our blog here.
“It Feels Like an Extension of Our Family”
Childcare at SSCS is more than just supervision. It’s relational, responsive, and rooted in our communities.
“The SSCS childcare staff are like an extension of our family that the children absolutely adore. The staff pour their heart and souls into the program and we are so grateful,” says one parent with children in our childcare program.
Families consistently describe our caregivers as compassionate, trustworthy, and deeply invested in their children’s development. That trust is built through:
- Emotional support and individualized care
- Familiar routines and warm relationships
- Fun, play-based learning that inspires joy
“My daughter never wants to leave. They really understand how to help a child who’s having a tough day. It’s the most special program,” says another parent.
More Than Play: Lifelong Skills in the Making
Behind the fun is a foundation of learning.
A recent parent survey showed that 97% of families agree or strongly agree that SSCS childcare has had a positive impact on their child’s development.
Based on BC’s Early Learning Framework our childcare programming builds:
- Problem-solving and emotional regulation
- Confidence and independence
- Social skills and conflict resolution
- School readiness and curiosity
“My son loves the program and it has built his confidence. I never worry when he’s there.”
Families Love It — but your support can help us fill in some gaps.
While parents are overwhelmingly happy with the care, we’re hearing clear requests for growth — and your support can help make it possible.
Your donation will help us keep up with the exponential demand on childcare services in the Corridor:
- Earlier drop-off (as early as 7:30am)
- Later pick-up (after 5pm)
- More spaces, to reduce waitlists
- More science, arts, music, and field trips
- Expanded summer and Pro-D day camps
- Better outdoor play structures
- More tools for parents to stay updated on their child’s development
“More spots so more families can enjoy your services.”
Childcare Is Community Care
Childcare is not just a family issue, it’s core infrastructure for a healthy, resilient community. When families have access to reliable care, they can:
- Return to work and support local businesses
- Reduce stress and improve mental well-being
- Build connections with other parents and caregivers
- Set their children up for long-term success
Help Us Support the Future of our Communities — One Child at a Time
We believe that every child deserves access to care that’s safe, affordable, and full of heart. That’s how we build Healthy Futures and Healthy Communities, together.
With your help, we can expand our programs, open more spaces, and make these dreams a reality for even more families.