Abstract

Inequalities that emerged during COVID-19 pandemic highlight the need to examine parent constraints in their decision-making around work and early childhood education and care (ECEC). This paper draws on conjoint survey data from a representative sample of 976 parents from the four largest Canadian provinces to examine the trade-offs parents made regarding their child’s care during the pandemic. Demographic differences in parental income, employment status, and having a child with special needs shaped childcare preferences in different ways. Our analysis finds that the most important factor in parent decision-making was type of ECEC (with a strong preference for licensed arrangements), followed by choices related to health and safety during the pandemic. The conclusion considers policy implications, including the need for more targeted and inclusive approaches that address the varying needs and circumstances of parents to enhance the overall quality and accessibility of care services post-pandemic and beyond.