New Child-Care Spaces Open in B.C. Schools, Benefiting Families

A new initiative aimed at expanding child-care options in British Columbia schools was celebrated on Thursday at the Ta’talu Child Care Centre in South Surrey. Local politicians and dignitaries gathered to discuss the introduction of 640 new child-care spaces across the province, which are designed to enhance access to quality care for young children and their families.

Investment in Child Care

The event began with a blessing from Semiahmoo First Nation Chief Harley Chappell, who bestowed the SENĆOŦEN-language name Ta’Talu, meaning “little arms,” upon the centre before it opened last year. During the gathering, Lisa Beare, British Columbia’s Minister of Education and Child Care, highlighted the significance of the new spaces, stating that they reflect strong partnerships between the province and local school districts. “We now have 156,000 spaces that are provincially funded,” Beare noted. “When we formed government, child care fees were $47 a day. Now, on average, families pay $19 a day.”

Beare emphasized the province’s commitment to creating more child-care opportunities, ensuring families have a convenient option for drop-off and pick-up while knowing their children are in a safe environment. The spaces are operated by Alex House, a community organization focused on child care.

Community Impact

Parent Adriana Arango, whose child attends the Ta’talu Child Care Centre, expressed her appreciation for the new services. “This isn’t good only for parents but for our whole school community, as children will become more familiar with their local school even before they start kindergarten,” she said. This sentiment reflects the growing recognition of the importance of early childhood education and its impact on families.

South Surrey-White Rock MP Ernie Klassen also addressed the crowd, stating that access to affordable, high-quality child care is a necessity for families across Canada. He pointed out that the new spaces are part of a broader initiative that has seen more than 41,000 new spaces funded in British Columbia since 2018, benefiting nearly 900,000 children nationwide. “Families are saving thousands of dollars each year while communities and our economy grow stronger,” he said. “When we invest in children, we invest in the future of Canada.”

According to a provincial government release, more than $23.5 million in ChildCareBC New Spaces funding has been allocated to school districts to facilitate the creation of these new child-care spaces. Gary Tymoschuk, chair of the Surrey school board, praised the efforts of school staff and child-care providers, noting their dedication to creating warm, welcoming, and safe environments for children.

Additionally, Anna Gainey, federal Secretary of State for Children and Youth, remarked that this investment will help alleviate wait lists and save parents significant amounts in fees. “When children have the best start in life, families thrive and all Canadians benefit,” she stated, highlighting the societal advantages of investing in early childhood education.

The Ta’talu Child Care Centre and the newly established spaces represent a significant step forward in addressing the child-care needs of families in British Columbia, fostering a supportive community environment that prioritizes the well-being of children and their families.