If you’re stuck on a daycare waitlist in Vancouver, you’re not alone. Families often wait months or even years for a spot. The process can feel unfair and confusing but understanding how waitlists really work can help you take back some control and even move faster.

Why Waitlists Exist

• Childcare shortage across BC.

• More families need care than there are spaces.

• Providers keep lists so they can fill openings quickly.

How Spots Are Offered

• First come, first served but not always.

• Priority rules: siblings of current children, staff priority, employer-partner priority

• Age grouping: an infant spot doesn’t help if you have a preschooler.

Common Myths

• “If I applied early, I’ll get in first.” → Not always; sibling or staff families may get priority.

• “Waitlists are always updated.” → Many aren’t. Some families stay listed even after finding care, and worst by the time you hear back, your then 2 year old is now in Kindergarden.

• “There’s nothing I can do to speed it up.” → There are other ways, and it really depends on the childcare provider.

What You Can Do

1. Apply to multiple programs (licensed centers, RLNRs).

2. Check in politely, a short email every month keeps your name fresh specially for unlicensed childcare facilities.

3. Ask about part-time, drop-in, or other openings.

4. Check Westcoast CCRR or the City of Vancouver Child Care Registry centralized systems to see what's available.

5. Stay open to smaller settings family child care homes often have shorter lists or immediate openings.

Waitlists are stressful, but they don’t have to feel hopeless. Subscribe to our newsletter to hear about weekly daycare openings.

Totsee is building real-time waitlist tracking so parents and providers can stop guessing and start planning with confidence.

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