The B.C. government is partnering with the Kamloops-Thompson School District to create 42 new childcare spaces in Kamloops.

The spaces will be added to the Kamloops Child Development Centre on the North Shore, taking the total number of childcare spots to 159. The province says it will include 12 infant/toddler spaces, 17 spaces for children between three and five years of age, and 13 spaces for school-aged children.

“KCDC was relieved and excited for the funding with the creation of 42 more spaces,” said Helen Blair, director of education for the Kamloops Child Development Centre.

“The new spaces mean we will not have to ask parents to find new child care when they age up to the next age group. We will be able to place infants that have been on the wait-list. This announcement will give our parents peace of mind.”

She says The Kamloops Child Development Centre offers a nature-based program where children spend most of their time. They will be taught about Indigenous cultures as well as science, math, drama, music, arts and culture.

Supports are available for families who are new to Canada, as well as for Indigenous families and those with extra support needs, Blair noted.

“Our district is pleased to be able to continue to partner with the Ministry of Children and Family Development and the Kamloops Child Development Centre to provide much-needed daycare and after-school programming in our community,” said outgoing SD73 Superintendent Alison Sidow.

“The KCDC is a long-serving, well-respected provider of programs and services that ensure our most vulnerable children have continuity of care until they transition to district schools.”

The new spaces are expected to be ready by this summer.