Description:

Is Canada ready for a universal childcare system? If so, what does ‘universal' look like?

Canada's current childcare system is a fragmented and patchwork landscape that has been recognized internationally as a serious human development concern.

Set against the backdrop of increased media and policy attention to social mobility, Canada 2020′s Analytical Commentary No. 6 focuses on the relationship between income inequality, equality of opportunity and universal childcare.

Indeed, despite extensive research on the topic, Canadian policymakers have struggled to develop a cohesive approach to reducing income disparities. While some advocate a more progressive tax system, or a broader income redistribution scheme, there are other, more concrete, non-tax based policy solutions available that can enhance equality of opportunity in Canada.

A large body of research suggests that few policy approaches offer greater returns in this area than a high-quality, universal childcare system.