The research shows that expansion without workforce planning only exacerbates existing instability. A key goal of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement was to increase childcare spots in Ontario; however, a gap was identified between policy ambition and workforce realities. The system was already experiencing shortages that were intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. CWELCC fee reductions have created a growth in demand that far outpaces workforce planning, creating significant, widespread workforce shortages and long parent waitlists. Staff and directors often struggle to manage ongoing shortages, frequently needing to hire less-qualified staff. Many report feeling guilty about taking sick days, while directors often spend their days on the floor to maintain staff-to-child ratios, leaving administrative responsibilities neglected. This instability may result in room closures from understaffing, further staff exits, and decreased quality of care. (1)