The Challenge of Finding Daycare Space

By Michelle Cyr-Whiting

Prince George, B.C. -  The Child Care Resource and Referral Centre has a number of busy periods throughout the year, but heading into September is generally one of the busiest.

Coordinator Jacquie Ennik-Laquerre says, "We've definitely seen an increase in the number of people contacting the centre over the last little while."  The CCRR is located in the Family Y building and Ennik-Laquerre says city residents requiring assistance in finding childcare can either email, phone, or come into the office. (click here for website)

She says it's difficult to pinpoint the exact number of daycare spaces available in the city at any given time because the centre relies on licenced providers to update the office with their vacancies. 

Ennik-Laquerre says there are a number of vacancies out there right now, but does say finding infant and toddler care is often more challenging because licencing regulations limit most providers to just a few spots for younger-aged kids.

Delayne Gascon is one such licenced provider.  She runs 'Sunflower Patch Daycare' out of her home and says she receives quite a few calls from parents looking for care for their one- and two-year-olds, but says she just doesn't have space. 

"I've talked to a number of Moms who are struggling to find a space for their one-year-old, after having a year off on maternity leave."

Gascon opened her daycare in the fall of 2006 and was at capacity by the spring of 2007. 

Her limits have changed slightly over the years, as her own children have grown because they must be included in the mix.  Right now, Gascon can provide care to seven children: 

2 spots for ages 12-24 months

2 spots for agest 24-48 months

3 spots for 48mos to 12 years

Her sons, Gabriel and Jarrett, account for one spot each in the first two categories.  And, as of September, Gascon will have three full-time spots available -- all in the upper age category.

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