This paper explores the relationship between income inequality, equality of opportunity, and universal childcare. After providing a succinct overview of Canada's childcare system, the paper explores how universal childcare facilitates equality of opportunity, which helps alleviate income inequality. Next, the paper reviews universal childcare models in Quebec, Sweden, and Australia to extract lessons for Canada. Finally, the paper discusses what the Government of Canada should consider if it decides to pursue a universal childcare system, namely confronting the difficulties of navigating and reforming Canada's fragmented approach. Alongside explaining how universal childcare can equalize opportunities, this paper will demonstrate the necessity of strong federal leadership moving forward. (author abstract)