Discover Our Daily Adventures
Every day at Hilltop is filled with learning, laughter, and exploration
About Hilltop Daycare
Located on beautiful Bowen Island, Hilltop Daycare is a multi-aged licensed childcare facility dedicated to learning through play and exploration.
Click on any card to learn more about our facility
Welcome to Hilltop
Hours & Schedule
Our Location
Our Philosophy
Outdoor Learning
Daily Activities
Safe & Licensed
The Heart of Hilltop
Meet Lauren, the caring soul who makes every day special
Lauren Cotter
Owner & Lead Educator
Welcome to Hilltop! I'm Lauren, and I'm thrilled to open my home and heart to your family. As a mother and educator living on beautiful Bowen Island, I created Hilltop Daycare to be a place where children can explore, learn, and grow surrounded by nature and love.
Experience
Over 10 years of dedicated experience in early childhood education, with specialized training in play-based learning and child development.
Philosophy
Children learn best through play, exploration, and asking 'why?' Lauren creates an environment where curiosity leads to discovery.
Community
Living on Bowen Island, Lauren is deeply connected to the community and believes in raising children close to nature.
Lauren's Story
Why I Started Hilltop
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work with children. After becoming a mother myself and living on this beautiful island, I realized there was an opportunity to create something special - a place where children could learn and grow in a home-like environment, surrounded by nature.
Hilltop Daycare is located on the ground floor of my family home on Bowen Island. With a separate entrance and dedicated outdoor space, we've created a warm, safe environment that feels like a home away from home.
My Approach to Early Education
I believe that children learn best when they're given the freedom to explore, question, and discover. My approach is centered around play-based learning, where every moment becomes an opportunity for growth.
Living on Bowen Island, we have incredible access to nature. In the warmer months, we spend most of our day outside, exploring natural materials, asking "why?", and letting the children's curiosity guide our adventures. This outdoor-focused approach has been transformative for the children in my care.
Qualifications & Training
A Glimpse Into Our Days
Explore the magic moments that happen every day at Hilltop
A Day at Hilltop
Explore our vibrant learning environment where every moment is an opportunity to grow, play, and discover.
👆Drag the photos to explore our daily activities!
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Arts & Crafts Time
Creative expression and learning
Story Time
Building literacy skills
Outdoor Play
Active playtime in nature
Learning Together
Group activities & socialization
Music & Movement
Developing rhythm and coordination
Snack Time
Healthy meals and social time
Building & Play
STEM learning through play
Price Schedule
Monthly pricing for all age groups and attendance options. All prices include CCFRI reductions.
3-5 year olds
| Days per Week | Hilltop Fee | CCFRI Reduction | Parent Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 days | $1,339 | $500 | $839 |
| 4 days | $1,133 | $400 | $721 |
| 3 days | $927 | $300 | $627 |
| 2 days | $721 | $200 | $521 |
| 1 day | $500 | $100 | $400 |
18-36 month olds
| Days per Week | Hilltop Fee | CCFRI Reduction | Parent Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 days | $1,430 | $600 | $830 |
| 4 days | $1,215 | $480 | $735 |
| 3 days | $1,030 | $360 | $670 |
| 2 days | $845 | $240 | $605 |
| 1 day | $620 | $120 | $500 |
12-18 month olds
| Days per Week | Hilltop Fee | CCFRI Reduction | Parent Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 days | $1,442 | $600 | $842 |
| 4 days | $1,256 | $480 | $776 |
| 3 days | $1,082 | $360 | $722 |
| 2 days | $900 | $240 | $660 |
| 1 day | $670 | $120 | $550 |
Note: All prices are in CAD and are monthly fees. CCFRI (Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative) reductions are automatically applied. Parent fees shown are the final amount after CCFRI reductions.
Questions & Answers
We are here to help you with any questions you may have about Hilltop Daycare. If you don't find what you need, please contact us at hilltopdaycare1301@gmail.com
What are your hours of operation?
Hilltop Daycare offers full-time and part-time childcare Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. We provide flexible scheduling to accommodate your family's needs.
What is your educational philosophy?
Learning through playing and exploring all types of materials is our philosophy. Asking questions like 'why?' creates exciting explorations in our classroom and leads children on quests through playful learning. In warmer months, children play outside the majority of the day.
How do I enroll my child?
We operate on a waitlist system. You can join our waitlist by visiting our website and filling out the waitlist form. We'll contact you when a space becomes available that matches your family's needs.
What is your staff-to-child ratio?
We maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios that meet and exceed licensing requirements. Our small group sizes allow for personalized attention and care for each child.
What age groups do you care for?
We are a multi-aged licensed childcare facility that welcomes children from infancy through preschool age. Our mixed-age environment encourages mentorship and community building among children.
Do you provide meals and snacks?
Yes, we provide healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. We focus on nutritious, balanced options that support children's growth and development. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies.
What activities do children participate in?
From arts and crafts to music and movement, story time to outdoor adventures, every day at Hilltop is filled with engaging activities that promote learning through play, creativity, and social development.
How do you communicate with parents?
We believe in open communication with families. You'll receive regular updates about your child's day, milestones, and any important information. We're always available to discuss your child's progress and any concerns.
Where is Hilltop Daycare located?
We are located on the beautiful Bowen Island, BC. The daycare is on the ground floor of owner Lauren Cotter's family home, with its own separate entrance and dedicated outdoor play area. Contact us for more information about our location.
What safety measures do you have in place?
Hilltop Daycare is a fully licensed childcare facility. We maintain the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, and care. Our facility has proper security measures, emergency procedures, and all staff are trained in first aid and CPR.
Do you offer outdoor play time?
Absolutely! Our dedicated outdoor play area is inspired by nature and provides abundant space for exploration. Children spend the majority of their day outside during warmer months, engaging with natural materials and discovering the beauty of Bowen Island.
Do you accept children with special needs?
We welcome all children and work with families to ensure we can meet each child's individual needs. Please contact us to discuss your child's specific requirements and how we can support them.
Ready to get started with Hilltop Daycare?
Join our waitlist today and take the first step towards quality childcare in a nurturing environment.
"Hilltop Daycare has been a blessing for our family. The staff genuinely cares about each child's development and happiness. Our daughter loves going every day!"
Sarah Mitchell
Parent of Emma, Age 4