Children's Services    

How do I choose a Quality Child Care Provider? 

In Ontario, the Ministry of Education licenses Child Care centres. The standards set under the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 address such things as health, safety and developmental needs, staff/child ratios, physical environment such as outdoor and indoor space, bathrooms, etc. It also specifies staff qualifications and supervision; however the standards are minimum and do not address all aspects of a quality program.

It is important for parents to take time to visit and review the setting in which they place their child to be sure it meets their needs and specific concerns. For more information visit.

What is the difference between centre-based child care and home based child-care?

Both centre-based and home-based Child Care Services are licensed under Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014. When parents choose a quality licensed Child Care Provider they can expect:
• Staff is always present to help children develop and learn.
• Children are treated in a positive manner that enhances self-esteem and self-confidence.

Through the licensing process, the centres/homes are required to meet certain standards; some of which include the layout of physical space and setting, emergency and fire procedures, and approved food preparation standards.

Centre-Based Care offers:
• A separate facility, usually located in a school, community centre or other building.
• Professional staff with training in early childhood education.
• Activities that are created for children at different stages of development.
• An environment which is free from dangerous objects and materials.
• A setting which is designed for children.
• Nutritious meal planning and routines.
• Toys and playground equipment which are age-appropriate and chosen with the safety and enjoyment of children in mind.

Home-Based Child Care offers:
• A family-like setting in the caregiver's home for up to five children from infant to school-age.
• Children from the same family can be cared for together, often in their own neighbourhood, close to school and friends.
• Hours of care can be flexible and may be adapted to suit the needs of individual families (e.g. parents working shift work).
• Planned activities for children at different stages of development.
• An environment which is free from dangerous objects and materials.
• Nutritious meal planning and routines

Where do you find a licensed Child Care Provider?

Hastings County has 32 Licensed Child Care Service Providers for licensed centres and home based licensed child care across Hastings County. Check out your options here

Looking for free child care programs within Hastings County to attend? 

EarlyON Child and Family Centres offer high-quality, free drop-in programs for children 0-6 and their families where they can learn, grow and connect, together.

Hastings County has 3 EarlyON providers with 45 sites located across Hastings County, including indigenous-led programs and several outdoor programs. 

Find out more information on EarlyOn Programs
 

Looking for financial support to lower your child care fees? 

Hastings County may be able to assist you with lowering your child care fees through the following supports: 

1.  Child Care Fee Subsidy 

   Hastings County Children's Services provides child care fee subsidy to assist families in accessing quality child care. If parents qualify, costs for child care at licensed sites, both centre and home based, may be fully or partially subsidized, with parents having to pay a portion of their monthly child care costs. 

   Learn more about how to Apply for Child Care Fee Subsidy

2. CWELCC

   What does CWELCC mean for my family?
   CWELCC allows families lower child fees. Your child must be enrolled in a licensed child care centre or licensed home child care program that has opted in to participate in the CWELCC child care plan. 

   Starting on January 1, 2023, your fees will be 52.75% lower if you’re paying full fee for child care. If you receive Child Care Fee subsidy to pay for child care, your fee will drop by 50%.

   Learn more about CWELCC