Child care, IMO, should be on a needs basis. first in first served is not appropriate.

there are many services that are based on needs, not who got in first - this is just another that should be based on needs. i don't think it's appropriate to have to anticipate changes in your circumstances. right now, i have no need for CC, so my DD isn't on any list. if something happened to DH tomorrow though, i would have a need to have her in care so that i can continue working. why should my not having her on a list ahead of my SIL (who uses after school care just because there is a place and her kids like going) prevent me from accessing a place i NEED?

it's not appropriate to assume first in means most 'deserving', most 'in need' of the places


but i do agree, i deal with people daily that cannot find a child care position as there aren't enough of them where they are needed...

i don't envy whoever it is that has to work out licensing etc for child care centres.