For the first time in recent memory, a number of Calgary child care centres have found themselves with more vacancies than children.
A number of daycare operators are trying to find ways to keep their doors open in this difficult economy.
One owner-operator, Michele Serpanchy from Creative Tree Early Learning Centre, told Global News some families are not even waiting for their employment situation to change before they pull their children out of daycare.
Serpanchy said parents are keenly aware there are daycare vacancies all over the city, so they have many different options if they need to find child care.
This situation is not unique to smaller daycare facilities.
The Quarry Park Child Development Centre just opened and is only half full, even though it has the capacity to care for 348 children.
Some facilities confirmed with Global News they have already had to lay off staff in light of unprecedented vacancies.