Childcare in Coquitlam in 2026 looks significantly different from 2021 — BC’s $10-a-day childcare system has progressed through CCFRI and ACCB, the ECE sector has seen wage improvements, and the Tri-Cities continue to see population growth that keeps demand for licensed spots high. This guide covers the 2026 state of childcare in Coquitlam: costs, availability, subsidy access, and how Smiling Kids serves families this year. Main guide: daycare Coquitlam. Call 604-600-4393.
For information on BC childcare subsidies and licensed daycare regulations, visit the Government of BC Childcare Resources. Smiling Kids Childcare Centre is a licensed childcare facility meeting all BC childcare regulations.
Childcare in Coquitlam 2026 — What’s Changed
- CCFRI has reduced Coquitlam infant fees by ~$700-900/month at participating centres — automatic, no application for families
- ACCB maximum ~$1,250/month for families under $45K household income — application required via ChildCareBC.ca
- Result: most Coquitlam families pay $0-400/month for full-time licensed infant care at CCFRI + ACCB eligible centres in 2026
- ECE wages have increased — improving recruitment and retention at quality centres, which directly benefits child development outcomes (more stable, experienced educator teams)
- New licensed spaces have been added across the Tri-Cities through BC’s New Spaces Fund, but demand continues to outpace supply in growing areas like Burke Mountain and Westwood Plateau
Childcare Availability in Coquitlam 2026
Despite new spaces, infant and toddler licensed care in Coquitlam remains in high demand in 2026:
- Infant waitlists (under 18 months): 3-12 months at established licensed centres
- Toddler spots (18 months–3 years): Slightly more available, especially for part-time
- Preschool-age (3-5 years): More options available; shorter waitlists
- Strategy: Add your name to waitlists during pregnancy. Apply to 6-8 centres simultaneously. BC childcare waitlist guide
Coquitlam Childcare Cost 2026 — Realistic Estimates
After CCFRI and ACCB at a participating centre:
- Under $45K household income: $0-200/month for full-time infant care
- $45K-90K household income: $150-600/month for full-time infant care
- Over $111K household income: Full gross fee minus CCFRI reduction (typically $800-1,400/month gross)
Full subsidy eligibility: BC childcare subsidy eligibility 2026 | affordable daycare Coquitlam.
Smiling Kids Childcare Centre — Coquitlam 2026
Smiling Kids serves North Coquitlam families with licensed infant care (3 months+), toddler care (18 months–3 years), and preschool programming in 2026. We are CCFRI-participating, ACCB-accepting, and Fraser Health licensed. Our ITE-certified educator team has been strengthened by BC’s ECE wage improvements — we have stable, experienced staff. Call 604-600-4393 to enquire about current availability or to add your name to our waitlist.
