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There are two basic kinds of child care in Ontario, licenced and unlicenced.
Under provincial law, the Health Unit is only required to inspect licenced child care centres. These licensed facilities are inspected to make sure the operators are complying with regulations for food safety and infection prevention. |
Click on the links below to learn more:
What types of child care centres need a licence?
Whether or not a child care program needs a licence depends on how many children a caregiver is looking after. In Ontario, caregivers can look after up to five unrelated children under the age of 10 without needing a licence.
Licensed child care programs have to meet and maintain specific provincial standards set out in the Day Nurseries Act. These standards include staff/child ratios, program and staff qualifications, safety, behavior management and nutrition. The standards help protect the health, safety and well-being of the children. Licences have to be renewed at least every year.
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What is unlicenced child care?
In Ontario, caregivers who look after five or fewer unrelated children under the age of 10 do not have to be licensed. This type of child care is considered to be a private arrangement made between the parents and the caregiver.
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Where can I get more information about licenced and unlicenced child care?
For more information on child care in Ontario, click here.
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What do the public health inspectors look for when they inspect a licenced child care facility?
The public health inspectors ensure that the facility is following general food safety guidelines for the storage, preparation and handling of food that is served to the children.
In addition, they make sure that the facility is following infection guidelines; cleaning, diapering, hand washing.
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What steps should I take when looking for child care?
Click here for a list of four steps to help you find the type of care that is best for your child.
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Where can I call if I have concerns about a child care centre?
If you have any concerns regarding any child care centre, licenced or unlicenced, please contact the Health Unit at 625-8318 or toll-free at 1-888-294-6630 and speak with a public health inspector.
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