Home Based Daycare

Posted on April 28, 2023  •  4 minutes  • 767 words

In Ontario, operating a home-based daycare is regulated by the Ministry of Education and governed by the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 (CCEYA).

The steps you need to take to legally launch a home-based daycare in Ontario:

1. Determine if you meet the requirements: To operate a home-based daycare in Ontario, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a criminal reference check, and have a home that meets safety and zoning requirements.
2. Attend an orientation session: Contact your local municipal licensing office to find out when the next orientation session for home-based daycare providers will be held. You will be required to attend this session, which provides information about the regulations, safety requirements, and other important aspects of operating a home-based daycare.
3. Obtain a license: After attending the orientation session, you will need to apply for a license to operate a home-based daycare. The licensing process involves submitting an application, providing references, and having your home inspected to ensure it meets safety requirements. You will also need to provide documentation, including proof of insurance and first aid certification.
4. Complete training: Before you can receive a license to operate a home-based daycare, you will need to complete an approved training course in early childhood education.
5. Open your daycare: Once you have received your license, you can start operating your home-based daycare. It is important to adhere to all regulations and safety requirements, including maintaining appropriate ratios of children to caregivers, keeping accurate records, and ensuring that your home is safe and clean. It’s worth noting that the process of opening a home-based daycare may vary depending on your specific location within Ontario. It’s always a good idea to check with your local municipal licensing office to ensure that you are following the correct procedures.

What is the process to get a home daycare license from weewatch agency?

Wee Watch is a licensed home childcare agency in Ontario that provides support and resources to home daycare providers. The steps to get a home daycare license from Wee Watch agency:

1. Contact Wee Watch: You can reach out to Wee Watch by phone or email to inquire about their licensing process. They will provide you with information about their requirements and answer any questions you may have.
2. Attend an information session: Wee Watch requires all prospective providers to attend an information session where they will learn more about the licensing process, Wee Watch policies and procedures, and the support they can expect to receive.
3. Submit an application: After attending the information session, you can submit an application to become a licensed Wee Watch home daycare provider. The application will ask for information about yourself, your home, and your experience working with children.
4. Interview and home inspection: Wee Watch will conduct an interview with you and conduct a home inspection to ensure that your home meets their safety requirements. This may include checking that you have working smoke detectors, adequate space for the children, and that your home is free of hazards.
5. Complete training: Wee Watch requires all providers to complete a training program in early childhood education. They offer training courses online and in-person.
6. Receive a license: Once you have completed the application process, interview, home inspection, and training, Wee Watch will issue you a license to operate a home daycare under their agency.

Startup costs

The startup costs for a home-based daycare in Ontario can vary based on a number of factors, including location, the size of the daycare, and the age range of the children being cared for. Here are some potential costs you may need to consider:

1. Licensing and Certification Fees: In Ontario, home-based daycare operators are required to obtain a license from the Ministry of Education. You may also need to obtain certification in First Aid and CPR. These fees can vary but typically range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
2. Safety Equipment and Supplies: You may need to purchase safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and safety gates. You may also need to purchase supplies such as toys, books, and educational materials. You can get most of the stuff from Mom groups on Facebook to keep the costs down.
3. Insurance: Home-based daycare operators in Ontario are required to carry liability insurance. The cost of insurance can vary based on the amount of coverage you need.
4. Marketing: You can avoid any marketing costs by advertising on Facebook mom groups and babysitting groups

Overall, the startup costs for a home-based daycare in Ontario can be a few thousand dollars, depending on your specific needs and the requirements in your area.