Kamloops Child Development Centre Early Childhood Educator Emily Siegrist plays with children at the North Shore child care facility on Wednesday, Nov. 21.

(KAREN EDWARDS / iNFOnews.ca)

WEST KELOWNA - West Kelowna families in need of childcare will have new options by August.  

The provincial government announced today, May 21, a $250,000 investment in KinderHeart Montessori, creating 76 licensed child care spaces, including 24 for infants and toddlers, 32 for children aged three years to kindergarten and 20 for preschoolers. 

"Being a parent is a full-time job, but when it's not your only job, finding quality child care can make a big difference," said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Children and Family Development, in a press release. "It's clear that having access to child care is good for both families and the economy, and we are determined to provide parents with more options and opportunities to help create a better future for their children."

KinderHeart uses the Montessori method of education, which encourages children to think independently and follow their own interests. Children learn and develop new skills through experimentation, independence and exploring the natural world, while learning what it means to be part of a community. It will develop local roots by working with community partners to provide inclusive care for children with extra support needs. The school also works with Hope Immigration Consulting to sponsor and hire new immigrants to work at its centres.

Under the Childcare BC New Spaces Fund, child care providers can apply at any time throughout the year under a new continuous application process.

The Childcare BC New Spaces Fund is part of the Province's Childcare BC plan and supports its commitment to give B.C. families access to affordable, quality child care when they want or need it. Since July 2018, the Province has funded more than 4,300 new licensed child care spaces through Childcare BC. More new spaces will be announced as projects are approved.

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