Question 1

How can I reach you?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us by phone during business hours (Mon–Fri 7:00 AM–6:00 PM), by email anytime, or by filling out the contact form above. We aim to respond within 24 hours.

Question 2

How do I book a tour?

Accepted Answer

Use the contact form above, call us at 604.945.8504, or email friendship.care@live.ca. We'll confirm your tour time by phone or email.

Question 3

What is included in the monthly tuition?

Accepted Answer

Monthly tuition includes all Montessori materials and learning resources, nutritious morning and afternoon snacks, outdoor play time, art supplies, and regular communication with families through our daily reports.

Question 4

Do I need to pay for months my child is absent?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tuition is required for all enrolled months to hold your child's spot, regardless of absences due to vacation, illness, or holidays. This ensures we maintain appropriate staffing ratios and can keep your child's place secured.

Question 5

Is there a waitlist deposit?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no fee to join our waitlist. However, once a spot becomes available and you accept, the $200 registration fee is due within 48 hours to secure your child's enrollment.

Question 6

What is your refund policy?

Accepted Answer

We require 30 days written notice for withdrawal. Registration fees are non-refundable. Tuition paid for the notice period is non-refundable, but your child may continue to attend during this time.

Question 7

Can I switch from part-time to full-time?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Schedule changes are subject to availability. Please provide at least 2 weeks notice for any schedule changes. We'll do our best to accommodate your family's needs.

Question 8

When does enrollment open?

Accepted Answer

We accept applications year-round. However, our primary enrollment period is in September for the new school year. We recommend applying 3-6 months in advance to secure a spot.

Question 9

Is there a waitlist?

Accepted Answer

Yes, due to our small class sizes and high demand, we maintain a waitlist for each age group. You can submit a waitlist application at any time, and we'll contact you when a spot becomes available.

Question 10

What documents do I need to enroll?

Accepted Answer

Required documents include: completed application form, child's birth certificate, immunization records, recent photo, emergency contact information, and physician's contact details. We'll provide a complete checklist during the application process.

Question 11

What is the minimum age for enrollment?

Accepted Answer

We accept children starting at 30 months (2.5 years) old. Children must be able to walk independently and show readiness for group care.

Question 12

Do you offer part-time options?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer both full-time (5 days/week) and part-time (2-3 days/week) programs. Part-time schedules are subject to availability and are typically available for preschool and pre-kindergarten groups.

Question 13

Can I tour the facility before enrolling?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We highly encourage parents to schedule a tour. You can book a tour online through our enrollment page or call us at 604.945.8504. Tours are available Monday-Friday by appointment.

Question 14

What is the Montessori method?

Accepted Answer

The Montessori method is a child-centered educational approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. It emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activity, and collaborative play. Children work with specially designed materials at their own pace, fostering independence, concentration, and a love of learning.

Question 15

Do you teach academics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but in a developmentally appropriate way. Montessori materials introduce academic concepts naturally through hands-on exploration. Children learn pre-math skills, pre-reading, writing, science, and practical life skills through engaging materials and activities.

Question 16

How do you incorporate biblical values?

Accepted Answer

Each week, we share gentle Bible stories that teach character values like kindness, honesty, sharing, and respect. These stories are age-appropriate and focus on universal values. We respect all families' beliefs and welcome children from all backgrounds.

Question 17

What is your approach to potty training?

Accepted Answer

We support families through the potty training process with patience and consistency. For our toddler program, children don't need to be fully potty trained. For preschool and pre-K, we prefer children to be potty trained but will work with families who are in the process.

Question 18

How do you handle different learning paces?

Accepted Answer

This is a strength of Montessori education! Children work at their own pace with individualized learning plans. Teachers observe each child and present materials when they're ready. Fast learners can progress quickly, while those needing more time receive additional support.

Question 19

Do you prepare children for kindergarten?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our pre-kindergarten program specifically focuses on school readiness. Children develop academic skills, social-emotional competencies, independence, and the ability to follow routines. Many of our graduates exceed kindergarten expectations.

Question 20

What are your hours of operation?

Accepted Answer

We're open Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We're closed on statutory holidays and for two weeks during the winter holiday season (typically the last week of December and first week of January).

Question 21

What should my child bring daily?

Accepted Answer

Please send: a change of clothes (including underwear and socks), indoor shoes, a water bottle (labeled), any comfort items, and sunscreen/hat in summer. We provide morning and afternoon snacks. If your child has specific dietary needs, please discuss with us.

Question 22

Do you provide meals?

Accepted Answer

We provide morning and afternoon snacks. Parents are responsible for packing a nutritious lunch. We encourage healthy, balanced meals and can provide suggestions. We are a nut-free facility to protect children with allergies.

Question 23

What is your late pick-up policy?

Accepted Answer

Our closing time is 6:00 PM sharp. If you're running late, please call us immediately. Late pick-ups incur a fee of $1 per minute after 6:00 PM. Repeated late pick-ups may result in additional consequences as outlined in our parent handbook.

Question 24

How do you communicate with parents?

Accepted Answer

We use multiple channels: daily verbal updates at pick-up, written notes for important information, monthly newsletters, parent-teacher meetings twice a year, and our monthly journal on the website. For urgent matters, we call or email directly.

Question 25

Can I visit during the day?

Accepted Answer

Parents are always welcome! However, we recommend calling ahead for drop-in visits so we can ensure it's a good time. Scheduled parent observation sessions allow you to watch your child in action without disruption. We maintain an open-door policy within reason.

Question 26

When should I keep my child home?

Accepted Answer

Please keep your child home if they have: fever over 100°F (within last 24 hours), vomiting or diarrhea (within last 24 hours), unexplained rash, contagious illness, or severe cold symptoms. Children must be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning.

Question 27

What if my child gets sick at daycare?

Accepted Answer

We'll call you immediately if your child develops a fever, vomits, or shows signs of illness. You'll need to pick up your child within one hour. We have a comfortable quiet area where ill children can rest until pick-up.

Question 28

How do you handle food allergies?

Accepted Answer

We take allergies very seriously. We're a nut-free facility. For children with specific allergies, we create individualized care plans, post allergy alerts, and ensure all staff are trained. Parents must provide complete allergy information and emergency medications (like EpiPens).

Question 29

Are staff trained in first aid?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All staff members are certified in Pediatric First Aid and CPR. We maintain current certifications and conduct regular safety drills. We have first aid kits in each classroom and outdoors.

Question 30

What are your emergency procedures?

Accepted Answer

We have comprehensive emergency plans for fire, earthquake, lockdown, and medical emergencies. We conduct monthly fire drills and quarterly earthquake drills. In case of evacuation, our meeting point is clearly marked. Parents will be notified immediately in any emergency.

Question 31

Is your facility licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are a licensed Group Daycare facility regulated by BC's Community Care and Assisted Living Act. We undergo regular inspections and maintain all required standards for health, safety, and programming.

Question 32

What is your staff-to-child ratio?

Accepted Answer

We maintain a 1:8 staff-to-child ratio, meeting or exceeding BC licensing requirements. This allows our educators to provide individual attention and support each child's development.

Question 33

How much does tuition cost?

Accepted Answer

Our tuition varies by program and schedule. Contact us for detailed rates. Full-time rates range from $1,150-$1,200/month depending on the age group. Part-time options are also available.

Question 34

When is tuition due?

Accepted Answer

Tuition is due on the first of each month. We offer several payment methods including post-dated checks, automatic bank transfers, and e-transfers. Late payments may incur a $25 fee after the 5th of the month.

Question 35

Do you accept government subsidies?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We accept the BC Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative and the Affordable Child Care Benefit. These subsidies can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. We can help you understand and apply for available subsidies.

Question 36

Are there sibling discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer a 10% discount on tuition for the second child when two or more siblings are enrolled simultaneously. The discount applies to the lower tuition rate.

Question 37

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept post-dated checks, e-transfers (to friendship.care@live.ca), and direct bank transfers. Cash payments are accepted but not encouraged. We do not currently accept credit cards.

Question 38

What if I need to withdraw my child?

Accepted Answer

We require one full month's written notice for withdrawal. If less notice is given, you'll be responsible for the full month's tuition. Registration fees are non-refundable. Please refer to your enrollment agreement for complete details.

Question 39

Are there additional fees?

Accepted Answer

Tuition includes daily snacks, materials, and regular field trips. Additional costs may include: registration fee ($200 annually), supply fee ($100 annually), special events or field trips with extra costs, and late pick-up fees.

Question 40

How can I get involved?

Accepted Answer

We welcome parent involvement! Opportunities include: volunteering for special events, sharing your profession or hobby with the class, joining our parent committee, participating in fundraisers, and attending parent education evenings.

Question 41

Do you have parent-teacher conferences?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we hold formal parent-teacher conferences twice a year (fall and spring). However, teachers are always available for informal check-ins at drop-off or pick-up. You can also schedule a meeting anytime if you have concerns or questions.

Question 42

Can I celebrate my child's birthday?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We love celebrating birthdays. You can bring a simple treat (nut-free, please) or we can do a special activity. We also do a special birthday ritual in the Montessori tradition. Please coordinate with your child's teacher in advance.

Get in Touch With Us

Schedule a tour, ask questions, or start enrollment today

Email: friendship.care@live.ca

Send us a Message

Get in Touch

Phone

Location

Hours

Email

Frequently Asked Questions

Visit Our Location

Our Location