Licensed daycare spots are hard to come by in BC. Many families turn to unlicensed care while waiting for openings. Choosing an unlicensed provider doesn’t mean unsafe but parents need to ask the right questions. Licensed programs follow strict regulations under the BC Child Care Licensing Regulation, but unlicensed providers do not. That means it’s up to you to have open conversations and build trust.

BC Fact Check

• Unlicensed providers in BC can only care for up to 2 children (not including their own).

• Licensed providers are inspected by their local health authority’s licensing office.

• Many trusted family caregivers operate unlicensed because they want small groups not because they’re unsafe.

Key Questions Parents Should Ask Unlicensed Providers

1. How many children are in your care each day?
   – Helps ensure they’re following BC’s legal limit.
   
   

2. What happens if you’re sick or unavailable?
   – Licensed providers must have backup staff. Ask what their backup plan looks like.
   
   

3. How do you handle emergencies?
   – Ask about first aid training, fire drills, and evacuation plans.
   
   

4. What safety measures do you follow?
   – Examples: safe sleep practices, secured outdoor spaces, locked entry.

When families and providers communicate openly, everyone benefits. It creates stronger trust and better relationships from the start.

Unlicensed care is a reality in BC, especially with the long waitlists. Asking clear, respectful questions doesn’t just protect your child it helps you and your provider build a relationship based on trust.

With Totsee, you can see whether a provider is licensed or unlicensed, and know the right questions to ask. Click here to be the first to know when we launch.