For Parents
Ontario Parent's Daycare Checklist
Choosing the right daycare can feel overwhelming. Use this simple guide to compare options, ask the right questions, and choose confidently.
1Types of Child Care in Ontario
Licensed Centers
Regulated by the Ministry of Education, inspected regularly.
Licensed Home Care
Smaller groups in a caregiver's home, overseen by an agency.
Unlicensed Home Care
Legal but not inspected; maximum of 5 unrelated children.
Find Local Options
Use our search tool to filter by neighborhood, program type, and age group.
2Costs & Support
Average Monthly Fees (2025)
Infant
$1,200 - $2,200
0 - 18 months
Toddler
$1,000 - $1,800
18 - 30 months
Preschool
$800 - $1,500
2.5 - 4 years
CWELCC program
Many licensed centers participate in this subsidy program.
Fee Subsidy
Apply early through your municipality, even before confirming a spot.
3Questions to Ask on a Tour
?
Do you participate in the $10/day CWELCC program??
What is your educator-to-child ratio??
How do staff support emotional needs??
How often do children go outside??
What meals and snacks are provided??
How do you update parents daily??
What is your sick policy and procedure?Green Flags
Warm, welcoming interactions
Safe, clean, childproofed environment
Diverse toys, books, and activities
Qualified Early Childhood Educators
Happy, engaged children
Open communication policy
Red Flags
Staff seem rushed or disengaged
Overcrowded or chaotic classrooms
No evidence of outdoor playtime
Vague answers about safety or fees
High staff turnover mentioned
Unsafe equipment or hazards
Your Action Plan
Before Applying
Search local centres
Check subsidy eligibility
Determine your budget
During Tour
Verify license status
Observe staff interactions
Check safety & cleanliness
Ask about daily routine
After Visiting
Compare commute times
Rank your top choices
Submit waitlist applications