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New Parent: Prepare for the first days of daycare

Parents Corner

Holiday Closures 2026

In BC, licensed daycares closures generally fall into three categories: Statutory Holidays, Scheduled Breaks, and Professional Development (Pro-D) Days.

Tuition: Monthly fees are not prorated for holiday closures.

3. Professional Development (Pro-D) & Admin Days 2026

  • Our Pro D days Closure: None

1. 2026 Statutory Holidays (Standard Closures)

Westwood Park Daycare and Most licensed daycares in BC close for all provincial and federal statutory holidays. If a holiday falls on a weekend, daycares usually close on the following Monday in lieu.

New Year’s Day Thursday, January 1. Family Day Monday, February 16. Good Friday Friday, April 3. Easter Monday Monday, April 6. Victoria Day Monday, May 18. Canada Day Wednesday, July 1. B.C. Day Monday, August 3. Labour Day Monday, September 7. Truth & Reconciliation Day Wednesday, September 30. Thanksgiving Day Monday, October 12. Remembrance Day Wednesday, November 11. Christmas Day Friday, December 25

2. Common Seasonal Breaks 2026

Beyond single holidays, Westwood Park Daycare and many BC centers schedule longer closures for maintenance or staff vacations.

  • Our Summer Break: July 13 to July 24

  • Our Winter Break: Dec 14 to Dec 25

  • Our Spring Break: None

No Nuts Policy

All daycare centres in B.C. enforce a strict no-peanut (and often no-nut) policy to protect children with severe, life-threatening allergies.

Parents are generally asked to ensure all packed lunches and snacks are 100% nut-free. Daycares, along with schools, are required to have allergy-safe policies in place.

Parents Board

Prepare for the first days of daycare?

Logistics & Packing

  • Label Everything: Use labels for bottles, clothes, shoes, bags, blankets, and comfort items.

  • Essential Items: Pack diapers, wipes, diaper cream, at least 2-3 changes of clothes, and socks.

  • Comfort Object: Bring a familiar item like a special stuffed animal or blanket.

  • Feeding Gear: If needed, pack labeled bottles/sippy cups and breastmilk or formula.

  • Prepare Gear: Pack the bag the night before to avoid rushed mornings.

Routine & Transition

  • Adjust Schedules: Start shifting nap times and meal times to align with the daycare schedule about 3-5 days before starting.

  • Practice Goodbyes: Practice short separations at home to build comfort.

  • Create a Ritual: Keep the final drop-off calm and consistent—a quick hug, high-five, and a cheerful "see you later".

Communication & Emotional Prep

  • Share Information: Tell educators about your child’s routines, soothing techniques, and likes/dislikes.

  • Discuss Separation: Talk to children about what to expect, using positive language.

  • Manage Your Emotions: Keep goodbyes brief and confident; it is normal for children to cry, and these feelings usually pass as they build trust.

Health & Safety

  • Vaccinations: Ensure all vaccinations are up to date and documentation is provided.

  • Medication/Allergies: Inform staff of any allergies or medical needs.

  • Prepare for Illness: Be prepared for the child to pick up new germs in the first few weeks.

Parent to Daycare Message

For urgent matters, please contact manager at 604-723-0432