Where Little Hearts Learn and Grow
Welcome to Hilltop Daycare, a home-based childcare nestled in the heart of beautiful Bowen Island. Founded by Lauren Cotter, we provide a nurturing, play-based environment where children explore, discover, and thrive surrounded by nature and love.
At Hilltop, we believe that every child deserves a childhood filled with wonder, curiosity, and the freedom to learn at their own pace in a safe, caring environment.
Lauren Cotter, Owner & Lead Educator
Creating magical moments since 2015
Nurturing Tomorrow's Curious Minds Today
At Hilltop Daycare, our mission is to provide exceptional early childhood education in a warm, home-like environment. We believe that children learn best through play, exploration, and authentic connections with caring adults who understand their unique developmental needs.
Grow
Supporting each child's individual development journey
Explore
Encouraging curiosity through hands-on learning experiences
Thrive
Creating a safe space where every child feels valued and loved
What Makes Hilltop Special
Our values guide everything we do, from daily interactions to long-term planning. They reflect our commitment to providing the best possible start for every child.
Safe & Nurturing
Your child's safety and emotional wellbeing are our top priorities. Our licensed facility and experienced care create a secure environment where children feel protected and loved.
Nature-Based Learning
Living on Bowen Island, we embrace outdoor education. Children spend time exploring natural materials, discovering wildlife, and developing a deep connection with the environment.
Play-Based Curriculum
We believe play is the highest form of research. Our emergent curriculum follows children's interests, allowing them to learn through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
Family Partnership
Strong family connections are essential. We work closely with parents to understand each child's unique needs and ensure consistency between home and daycare.
Positive Environment
We foster a warm, inclusive atmosphere where children develop confidence, resilience, and a love for learning that will serve them throughout their lives.
Individual Attention
With small group sizes, we provide personalized care that honors each child's developmental timeline, learning style, and unique personality.
The Heart Behind Hilltop
Our dedicated team brings years of experience, genuine passion for early childhood education, and a deep commitment to nurturing each child's unique potential.
Lauren Cotter
Owner & Lead Educator
Lauren is a passionate early childhood educator with over 10 years of experience. As a mother and lifelong learner, she understands the profound impact of quality childcare on a child's development. Her play-based, nature-focused approach creates an environment where children feel safe to explore, question, and discover.
Qualifications
Our Story
From a dream to a thriving community of learners
The Beginning
Growing up, Lauren always knew she wanted to work with children. After becoming a mother herself and moving to the beautiful Bowen Island, she recognized an opportunity to create something special - a place where children could learn and grow in a home-like environment, surrounded by the natural beauty of the island.
Creating a Home Away From Home
Hilltop Daycare is located on the ground floor of Lauren's family home on Bowen Island. With a separate entrance and dedicated outdoor space, it provides all the comfort of home with the structure and resources of a professional childcare facility. The warm, inviting space has been thoughtfully designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and learning.
Nature as Our Classroom
Living on Bowen Island provides incredible access to nature. Lauren embraces an outdoor-focused approach, spending much of the day outside in warmer months. Children explore natural materials, ask endless "why?" questions, and let their curiosity guide their learning adventures. This connection to nature has been transformative for the children in her care.
Today and Tomorrow
Today, Hilltop Daycare is a thriving community where families trust us with their most precious treasures. We continue to grow and evolve, always staying true to our core values of play-based learning, nature connection, and individualized care. We're excited about the future and look forward to welcoming new families into our Hilltop family.
Ready to Join Our Family?
We'd love to welcome you and your child to Hilltop Daycare. Join our waitlist today or reach out to schedule a visit and see our loving environment firsthand.