We believe our collective well-being depends on children being supported to grow into their full potential.
Under the Oak Programs
Programs for every stage of growth.
$10 a day.
12-36 months
Monday - Thursday
8:45 am - 3:15 pm
Catkin Program
Building connections and strong relationships. Daily neighbourhood adventures.
Acorn Program
30 months - school aged
Monday - Thursday
8:45 am - 3:15 pm
Fostering learning through child-lead play. Outdoor time, rain or shine.
Adventure School
4-6 years
Fridays, September - June
9:30 am - 2:30 pm
Weekly explorations of Hornby Island. Providing confidence, curiosity and connection to place.
Raven Summer School
A fun, dynamic Summer Program to support working families.
Like the Raven, children are natural explorers and problem-solvers.
Raven School nurtures imagination, creativity, and critical thinking through connection to story and place.
For children who have completed grades 1-3
Monday - Thursday
8:45 am - 3:15 pm
July 6 - August 20
Our History
Hornby Island Daycare Society was established in 1973 by Shelagh Johnston and Diane Smith, who shared a deep commitment to children’s learning through play and exploration.
They found that this value of creativity and self-expression was shared by many families across the island, and set out to build a place to support and inspire the next generation.
Archival Photo by Bob Cain.
Quality care for $10 a day.
Hornby Island Daycare is proud to be part of BC’s $10 a Day ChildCareBC program, offering high-quality, childcare at an accessible rate. Licensed by Island Health for families on Hornby Island.
As a non-profit society, our focus remains on creating a nurturing, play-based environment where children can grow, connect, and thrive.
Illustration by Rae Mate.
Mission Statement
To be a place of connection, belonging, and growth for families and children in our diverse island community. To provide a high level of licensed care and progressive opportunities for early learners.
Guiding Principles
Illustration by Rae Mate.
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Every child has the right to feel welcome, valued, and included. We create space for each child’s unique experiences, identities, and ways of being.
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We honour our island home through daily outdoor play, exploration, and learning that reflects the rhythms of the natural world. We recognize Indigenous peoples as original knowledge keepers and continue to learn from and with the land.
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Children are at the centre of the learning journey. Through play, curiosity, and exploration, we support the development of language, relationships, and independence.
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Families and educators work together to support each child. We value open communication and strong partnerships within our community, and with partner organizations.
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We support children in building respectful relationships, understanding their emotions, and caring for each other and the world around them.
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We support ongoing professional growth, work to be exemplary employers, and grow to meet the ongoing needs of our community.