Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo is inviting families to share their experiences and ideas to help guide the future of child care and early years programs.  

A new survey is open for parents and caregivers who live in Waterloo Region and have at least one child aged 12 years or younger. 

Feedback will help inform a new Early Years and Child Care Service System Plan for 2027–2031. Region of Waterloo Children’s Services develops the plan every five years to set direction for how the early years and child care sector should grow, improve and respond to community needs. 

The survey can be completed online and is open until June 30, 2026. For more information, visit www.engagewr.ca/childrens-services-systems-plan.  

“Early learning and child care are an important part of a healthy, caring community,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “Hearing from families gives us a better understanding of what children and parents need so we can work with our community partners to shape services that give children the best possible start.” 

Region of Waterloo’s Children’s Services works with community partners to deliver early years and child care programs and services. This includes planning and oversight for local early years and licensed child care programs, inclusion supports, child care fee subsidy, and OneList Waterloo Region. There are over 25,400 licensed child care spaces for children ages 0-12 across Waterloo Region. 

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