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Affordability Guide

Is Curio Cove Childcare Eligible for BC's $10-a-Day Program?

If you're searching for childcare in Castlegar, BC, you've probably heard about the province's $10 a Day ChildCareBC program.

For many families, the program can make a significant difference in monthly childcare costs. But there's an important distinction to understand:

Being a licensed childcare provider does not automatically mean a centre is a $10-a-day childcare provider.

The $10-a-day program is a specific government-funded program for approved childcare spaces. Providers must be selected and funded to participate.

So, is Curio Cove Childcare currently part of the $10-a-day program?

Based on the information currently published on Curio Cove Childcare's website, the centre provides licensed childcare and offers infant, toddler, preschool, and early-learning programs in Castlegar. However, its website does not currently state that Curio Cove is a participating $10-a-Day ChildCareBC centre.

That means families should not assume that Curio Cove's regular childcare fees are capped at $10 per day.

The best way to confirm the current funding status and applicable fees is to contact Curio Cove directly.

Program Overview

What Is the $10-a-Day ChildCareBC Program?

The $10 a Day ChildCareBC program is a provincial affordability program designed to reduce the amount families pay for eligible childcare spaces.

At participating centres, the government provides operating funding that allows parent fees to be significantly reduced.

B.C. has described the program as reducing the average cost of full-time, centre-based care from approximately $1,120 per month to $200 per month, or about $10 per day, for participating spaces.

However, the name can sometimes create confusion.

"$10 a day" does not mean that every daycare in British Columbia costs $10 per day.

It refers specifically to childcare spaces that are part of the government-funded program.

Daycare Eligibility

Does Every Licensed Daycare Qualify for $10-a-Day Childcare?

No.

This is one of the most important things parents should understand when comparing childcare centres.

A childcare centre can be licensed and still not be part of the $10-a-day program.

B.C. has separate affordability programs, including the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI), which helps participating licensed providers reduce monthly parent fees. The province reported that 97% of eligible licensed centres were participating in CCFRI as of 2026.

The $10-a-day program is different.

It involves specific spaces at approved participating providers.

So when you're looking for daycare in Castlegar, ask whether the centre participates in:

  • $10 a Day ChildCareBC
  • Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative
  • Affordable Child Care Benefit
  • Other applicable childcare affordability programs

These programs can have very different eligibility rules and effects on your final childcare costs.

How It Works

What Does "Eligible" Mean for a Childcare Centre?

It's important to distinguish between family eligibility and provider eligibility.

Provider Eligibility

A childcare provider must be approved to participate in the relevant government program. The $10-a-day model provides operating funding to participating childcare facilities, allowing them to offer designated spaces at significantly reduced parent fees.

Family Eligibility

For $10-a-day spaces, the program itself is not income-tested. B.C. states that families using $10-a-day sites can access those spaces regardless of their financial circumstances.

Families may also qualify for additional assistance through other programs, depending on their circumstances.

This means: A family can be eligible to attend a $10-a-day centre, but that does not mean every childcare centre the family considers is automatically a $10-a-day centre.

Local Availability

What Does the $10-a-Day Program Mean for Castlegar Families?

The program is particularly important for families trying to manage the cost of childcare in smaller communities.

Castlegar already has childcare providers participating in the $10-a-day program.

In March 2025, B.C. announced additional $10-a-day spaces in Castlegar through Kootenay Family Place's Castlegar & District Kids' Club, which received 25 additional $10-a-day spaces.

That means families in Castlegar may have access to $10-a-day childcare depending on the provider, program, age group, and available spaces.

But availability matters.

A centre may participate in a government affordability program and still have a waitlist.

Our Programs

What About Curio Cove Childcare?

Curio Cove Childcare is a childcare centre in Castlegar, BC, serving children through its infant, toddler, preschool, and early-learning programs. The centre describes its approach around safe, nurturing care, qualified educators, learning through play, indoor and outdoor experiences, creative activities, and age-appropriate development.

Infant & Toddler Care

Curio Cove provides care for young children from infancy through the toddler years, with programs designed around routines, responsive care, exploration, communication, movement, and early development.

Preschool

The preschool program is designed for children aged 3–5 years and focuses on confidence, communication, independence, creativity, early learning, and school readiness.

Early Learning Activities

Children participate in experiences such as:

  • Storytelling
  • Circle time
  • Music
  • Movement
  • Sensory activities
  • Creative projects
  • Group participation
  • Indoor learning
  • Outdoor exploration

These experiences are designed to support children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

Current Status

Is Curio Cove Currently a $10-a-Day Daycare?

Curio Cove's current website does not publicly identify the centre as a $10-a-day ChildCareBC provider.

That is an important distinction.

We recommend that families contact Curio Cove directly for the current fee structure and applicable government funding information rather than assuming the $10-a-day rate applies.

Curio Cove's website provides a direct contact option and invites families to join the waitlist or book a tour.

This is especially important because government childcare programs and funding arrangements can change over time.

Policy Updates

A Major 2026 Update: New $10-a-Day Providers Are Currently Paused

If you're reading older articles about B.C.'s $10-a-day program, you may see information saying that licensed childcare providers can apply to become $10-a-day providers.

That information may now be outdated.

In Budget 2026, the Province announced a stabilization period during which it is pausing enrolment of new providers into the $10-a-Day ChildCareBC program.

The Province also stated that families and providers already participating in the $10-a-day program will see no changes.

This matters when searching for information about a childcare centre's eligibility.

A provider that is already participating can continue under the program, while a provider that is not currently participating cannot simply assume it can enroll as a new provider during the pause.

Alternative Savings

Does That Mean Curio Cove Cannot Offer Affordable Childcare?

No.

The $10-a-day program is only one part of B.C.'s childcare affordability system.

The Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI) provides funding to participating licensed childcare providers to reduce parent fees.

B.C. reported that CCFRI participation covered 97% of eligible licensed centres and that the program has helped families save billions in childcare fees since its introduction.

Families may also qualify for the Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB).

Depending on a family's circumstances, ACCB support can provide additional assistance with childcare costs.

In other words: Not being a $10-a-day space does not automatically mean a childcare centre is unaffordable. Parents should look at the actual fee after applicable reductions and benefits. For more details on budgeting, check out our guide on daycare costs in Castlegar.

Program Comparisons

$10-a-Day vs. Fee Reduction Programs: What's the Difference?

It's easy to confuse these programs because both are designed to make childcare more affordable.

$10-a-Day ChildCareBC

This is a specific funding model for approved participating childcare spaces. Families at participating sites pay no more than the applicable capped parent fee for eligible care arrangements. B.C.'s public information describes full-time regular-hours care at participating sites as up to $200 per month per child.

Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative

CCFRI reduces the regular parent fee at participating licensed childcare providers. The amount of the reduction depends on the type of care and other program factors.

Affordable Child Care Benefit

ACCB is additional financial assistance for eligible families. Unlike $10-a-day spaces, ACCB eligibility is based on factors such as household circumstances and income.

These programs can interact, so families should determine which supports apply to their situation.

Tour Questions

What Should You Ask Curio Cove About Childcare Fees?

If you're considering Curio Cove Childcare, don't hesitate to ask specific questions about affordability.

Here are some useful questions to bring to a tour or phone call:

  1. What is the current monthly fee for my child's age group?
    Infant, toddler, and preschool fees may differ.
  2. Does Curio Cove participate in CCFRI?
    If so, ask how the applicable reduction is reflected in your parent fee.
  3. Is Curio Cove currently a $10-a-Day ChildCareBC provider?
    Ask specifically about the current status rather than relying on older online information.
  4. Are there any additional fees?
    Ask about registration, supplies, meals, extended hours, or other potential charges.
  5. Does my family qualify for ACCB?
    The centre may be able to direct you to the appropriate provincial information, although families are responsible for determining their own eligibility.
  6. Is there currently a space available?
    A childcare centre can have an affordable fee structure but still have limited availability.

Curio Cove currently provides a waitlist form where families can indicate the program they need, preferred start date, days of care, and preferred schedule.

Search Guidance

What If You're Looking for $10-a-Day Childcare in Castlegar?

If your priority is specifically finding a $10-a-day daycare in Castlegar, don't limit your search to the phrase "daycare."

Instead, look for centres that are specifically identified as $10 a Day ChildCareBC providers.

You can then contact those centres directly to ask:

  • Which age groups have funded spaces?
  • How many $10-a-day spaces are available?
  • Is there a waitlist?
  • What are the hours?
  • Is the space full-time or part-time?
  • What happens when my child changes age groups?
  • Are there additional fees?

The provincial program has a limited number of designated spaces, so finding a $10-a-day centre does not necessarily mean a space is immediately available.

Beyond Price

How Can Curio Cove Help Families?

Even when comparing childcare costs, families should consider the overall experience their child will receive.

Curio Cove focuses on creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn, play, explore, build confidence, and develop independence.

The centre's programs include:

  • Infant care
  • Toddler care
  • Preschool
  • Early learning activities
  • Creative arts and sensory play
  • Indoor and outdoor exploration
  • Music and movement
  • Storytelling
  • Group learning
  • Guided play

This means parents can evaluate Curio Cove based not only on the monthly fee, but also on the quality, structure, learning experiences, environment, and support provided throughout the day.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Curio Cove Childcare a $10-a-day daycare?

Curio Cove's current website does not publicly state that it is a participating $10-a-Day ChildCareBC provider. Families should contact Curio Cove directly to confirm its current funding status and applicable childcare fees.

What is $10-a-day childcare in BC?

$10 a Day ChildCareBC is a government-funded program that provides significantly reduced parent fees at approved participating childcare spaces. B.C. describes full-time regular-hours care at participating sites as costing no more than $200 per month per child.

Is every licensed daycare in BC a $10-a-day daycare?

No. Licensing and $10-a-day participation are different. A centre can be licensed without being part of the $10-a-day program.

Can private childcare centres participate in the $10-a-day program?

Yes. B.C. has previously stated that licensed providers, including private, non-profit, public, and Indigenous-led providers, could apply under the relevant program intake. However, current program enrolment rules and pauses need to be considered.

Can I receive childcare assistance if my daycare is not $10-a-day?

Potentially, yes. B.C. has other affordability programs, including the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative and the Affordable Child Care Benefit, subject to the applicable requirements.

Does the $10-a-day program depend on family income?

The $10-a-day program itself is not income-tested. B.C. states that participating sites are open to families regardless of finances. Additional programs, such as ACCB, have their own eligibility requirements.

Are there $10-a-day childcare spaces in Castlegar?

Yes. B.C. has announced $10-a-day spaces in Castlegar, including additional spaces at Castlegar & District Kids' Club through Kootenay Family Place.

Is Curio Cove Childcare licensed?

Curio Cove's website describes its educators and childcare services as licensed and qualified, and its programs include infant, toddler, and preschool care.

How do I find out Curio Cove's current childcare fees?

The most reliable option is to contact Curio Cove directly with your child's age, preferred start date, and required schedule. The centre can provide the current fee information for the appropriate program and explain the enrollment process.

Take Action

Looking for Affordable Childcare in Castlegar?

Choosing childcare is about more than finding the lowest advertised price.

You want a place where your child can feel safe, supported, valued, and encouraged to learn while your family has confidence in the care they're receiving.

Curio Cove Childcare provides infant, toddler, and preschool programs in Castlegar, with a focus on nurturing relationships, play-based learning, creative exploration, and age-appropriate development.

If you're considering Curio Cove for your child, the next step is simple.

Contact us to ask about current fees, program availability, applicable childcare funding, and enrollment options.

Book a Tour

Come see the environment, meet the educators, and ask your questions in person. Book a tour today.

Join Our Waitlist

If you're not ready to enroll yet, you can submit your childcare requirements and preferred start date through the Curio Cove waitlist.

Suggested Internal Links Checklist:
  • Infant Care → /programs/
  • Toddler Program → /programs/
  • Preschool Program → /programs/
  • Enrollment → /enrollment/
  • Join Our Waitlist → /join-our-waitlist-2/
  • Contact Us → /contact-us/
  • About Curio Cove Childcare → /about-us/
  • Daycare Cost in Castlegar → /how-much-does-daycare-cost-in-castlegar-bc/
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Indoor & Outdoor Learning (All Age Groups)

A Balanced Approach to Active Learning and Exploration

At Curio Cove Childcare, our Indoor & Outdoor Learning program is designed for all age groups, offering a balanced environment where children move between structured indoor activities and active outdoor play. This approach supports physical development, curiosity, and everyday learning in a natural and engaging way.

Inside the classroom, children participate in calm, focused activities such as puzzles, reading corners, building blocks, and group learning sessions. These experiences help develop concentration, patience, early problem-solving skills, and cognitive development in a supportive indoor setting.

Outside, the learning environment becomes more active and dynamic. Children are encouraged to run, climb, explore, and interact with their surroundings. Outdoor play supports coordination, balance, strength, and social interaction, while also giving children a healthy outlet for movement, energy, and self-expression.

We believe that learning should not be limited to a specific space or time. Instead of separating “learning time” and “play time,” we integrate both into a natural rhythm that helps children understand that learning can happen anywhere—in structured activities, open play, and everyday experiences.

The goal of our program is to support the whole child by encouraging physical growth, social development, emotional confidence, and cognitive learning through a healthy balance of indoor structure and outdoor freedom.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • Structured indoor activities such as puzzles, blocks, and learning centers

  • Reading corners that support early literacy and quiet focus

  • Group activities that encourage communication and cooperation

  • Outdoor play that builds strength, coordination, and balance

  • Opportunities for exploration, movement, and physical development

  • Social interaction with peers in both indoor and outdoor settings

  • A balanced routine of structured learning and free play

  • Safe and supervised environments for all activities

  • Encouragement from educators in every learning space

  • A holistic approach that supports the whole child

Ready to Give Your Little One the Best Start?

Contact Us

Creative Arts & Sensory Play (2–5 Years)

Exploring Creativity Through Hands-On Learning

At Curio Cove Childcare, our Creative Arts & Sensory Play program is designed for children aged 2 to 5 years, offering a relaxed, hands-on environment where children can explore colours, textures, sounds, and materials to support creativity, curiosity, and early sensory development.

We understand that young children often learn best through touch, movement, and sensory experiences before fully expressing ideas through words. That’s why our program focuses on open-ended exploration that encourages children to engage with the world in a natural and meaningful way.

Children are invited to explore freely using a variety of safe, age-appropriate materials such as paints, clay, paper, fabrics, water play, and sensory objects. There is no pressure to create something “perfect.” Instead, the focus is on expression, discovery, and the process of learning itself.

Some children enjoy painting quietly and carefully, while others prefer mixing colours, experimenting with textures, or exploring materials in their own unique way. We support each child at their own pace, helping them build confidence, independence, and creative thinking skills.

Yes, things can get a little messy at times—but that is often a sign of meaningful, hands-on learning taking place in its most natural form.

Our goal is not to produce artwork for display, but to give children the freedom to express themselves, develop curiosity, and enjoy the process of creating something with their own hands in a safe and supportive environment.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • Hands-on art activities using paint, clay, paper, and mixed materials

  • Sensory play experiences that support early brain development

  • Opportunities for open-ended creativity without pressure or expectations

  • Activities that encourage curiosity, imagination, and exploration

  • Exploration of different textures, colours, sounds, and materials

  • Freedom to create at their own pace and comfort level

  • Development of fine motor skills through creative activities

  • A safe, relaxed environment where mess is part of learning

  • Encouragement from educators to support self-expression

  • A fun and engaging space for discovery and creativity

Ready to Give Your Little One the Best Start?

Contact Us

Early Learning Activities (All Age Groups)

Building Confidence Through Everyday Group Learning

At Curio Cove Childcare, our Early Learning Activities are designed for all age groups, providing daily opportunities for children to build communication skills, confidence, and positive social connections through structured group participation.

We understand that every child learns differently. Some children learn best by listening, others through movement, repetition, or observation before actively joining in. Our program is designed to support all learning styles in a calm, inclusive, and encouraging environment where every child feels comfortable and valued.

Each day includes a balanced mix of structured group experiences such as circle time, music, movement, storytelling, and simple interactive discussions. These activities help children become comfortable expressing themselves, listening to others, and participating in group settings at their own pace, without pressure.

A strong focus is placed on routine and consistency. Over time, children begin to understand when it is time to listen, when it is time to share, and when it is time to participate. These small but important patterns help build confidence, self-regulation, and early learning habits that support long-term development.

Our goal is to create a positive foundation where children feel safe, included, and encouraged to take part. Through daily shared experiences, they gradually develop stronger communication skills, social awareness, and the confidence needed for future learning in school and everyday life.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • Daily circle time that encourages listening and participation

  • Music and movement activities that support coordination and expression

  • Storytelling sessions that build language and imagination

  • Group discussions that develop communication and confidence

  • Opportunities to learn turn-taking, sharing, and cooperation

  • Activities designed for different learning styles and abilities

  • A calm, inclusive environment that supports every child

  • Consistent routines that build structure and security

  • Encouragement from educators to support active participation

  • A safe space to build early social and learning skills

Ready to Give Your Little One the Best Start?

Contact Us

Preschool Program (3–5 Years)

Building Confidence, Creativity, and School Readiness

At Curio Cove Childcare, our Preschool Program is designed for children aged 3 to 5 years, providing a structured and engaging learning environment that encourages curiosity, independence, and a love of learning. During these important years, children begin developing the skills and confidence they need to successfully transition into kindergarten and beyond.

Our program balances guided learning with hands-on exploration, allowing children to build foundational academic, social, and emotional skills through meaningful everyday experiences. We create opportunities for children to ask questions, solve problems, express ideas, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Throughout the day, children participate in a variety of age-appropriate activities that support early literacy, numeracy, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Through storytelling, group discussions, hands-on projects, music, art, and interactive learning experiences, children are encouraged to develop essential skills while remaining actively engaged and motivated.

Social and emotional development is equally important during the preschool years. Our educators guide children as they learn to cooperate with others, build friendships, follow routines, express emotions appropriately, and develop confidence in group settings. These experiences help create a strong foundation for future success both inside and outside the classroom.

We understand that every child learns differently. Our educators provide individualized support and encouragement, helping children progress at a pace that feels comfortable while celebrating their unique strengths and interests. By fostering a positive and supportive environment, we help children develop confidence in their abilities and enthusiasm for learning.

By the time children complete our Preschool Program, they have developed important academic foundations, social skills, independence, and school-readiness abilities that prepare them for their next educational journey.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • Early literacy and language development activities

  • Introduction to basic numeracy and problem-solving concepts

  • Storytelling, group discussions, and interactive learning experiences

  • Creative arts, music, and imaginative play

  • Activities that encourage critical thinking and curiosity

  • Opportunities to build friendships and social confidence

  • Structured routines that support independence and responsibility

  • Hands-on projects that encourage exploration and discovery

  • Supportive educators who nurture each child’s individual growth

  • A safe, engaging, and school-readiness-focused learning environment

Ready to Give Your Little One the Best Start?

Contact Us

Toddler Program (18 Months – 3 Years)

Encouraging Independence, Discovery, and Early Learning

At Curio Cove Childcare, our Toddler Program is designed for children aged 18 months to 3 years, a stage filled with curiosity, exploration, and rapid development. During these important years, toddlers begin building independence, developing communication skills, and learning how to interact with the world around them.

Our nurturing and engaging environment encourages children to explore, communicate, and grow through hands-on learning experiences. We recognize that every child develops at their own pace, and our educators provide guidance, encouragement, and support tailored to each child’s unique needs and interests.

Throughout the day, toddlers participate in a variety of age-appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Through circle time, storytelling, music, movement, sensory play, creative arts, and guided exploration, children are encouraged to discover new skills while having fun.

As children begin developing relationships with peers, our educators help them learn important social and emotional skills such as sharing, taking turns, expressing feelings, following routines, and building positive friendships. These everyday interactions help children gain confidence and develop a strong sense of belonging.

Our thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor learning spaces provide opportunities for active play, exploration, and discovery. Whether climbing, creating, investigating, or engaging in imaginative play, toddlers are encouraged to make choices, solve problems, and develop independence in a safe and supportive environment.

By maintaining open communication with families and providing consistent care, we create a positive learning experience that supports each child’s growth, confidence, and readiness for future learning.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • Opportunities to build independence and self-confidence

  • Language-rich activities that support communication development

  • Circle time, storytelling, songs, and music experiences

  • Sensory play and hands-on learning opportunities

  • Creative arts and imaginative play activities

  • Social experiences that encourage sharing and cooperation

  • Indoor and outdoor exploration designed for active learning

  • Supportive routines that promote emotional security and growth

  • Caring educators who encourage curiosity and discovery

  • A safe, engaging, and nurturing learning environment

Ready to Give Your Little One the Best Start?

Contact Us

Infant Care (0–18 Months)

Nurturing Care for Your Baby’s Earliest Years

At Curio Cove Childcare, our Infant Care program provides a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where babies aged 0–18 months receive individualized attention and responsive care throughout the day. We understand that the earliest months of life are a time of rapid growth, discovery, and development, which is why we focus on creating a calm and comforting space where infants can thrive.

Every child develops at their own pace, and our educators work closely with families to understand each infant’s unique needs, routines, and milestones. We strive to maintain familiar feeding, sleeping, and caregiving schedules to ensure consistency between home and childcare, helping babies feel secure, comfortable, and supported.

Our program encourages early development through age-appropriate experiences that stimulate curiosity, sensory exploration, communication, and movement. Through activities such as tummy time, music and songs, storytelling, guided play, and one-on-one interactions, infants are given opportunities to learn, explore, and build confidence in a caring environment.

Our thoughtfully designed infant classrooms provide a clean, welcoming, and secure setting where children can safely explore under attentive supervision. We place a strong emphasis on building trusting relationships with both children and families, ensuring open communication about daily routines, feedings, naps, activities, and developmental progress.

At Curio Cove Childcare, we are committed to providing the loving care, comfort, and support that help infants develop strong foundations for future learning and growth.

What Your Child Will Experience

  • Individualized care tailored to their unique needs and routines

  • Consistent feeding, sleeping, and caregiving schedules

  • Sensory-rich activities that support early development

  • Music, stories, tummy time, and guided play experiences

  • Safe opportunities for movement and exploration

  • Warm, responsive interactions with caring educators

  • Daily communication and updates for families

  • A secure, clean, and nurturing learning environment

Ready to Give Your Little One the Best Start?

Contact Us