Child Care Services

The Toronto District School Board recognizes that child care programs in schools are an integral component of the education system. Our commitment to a strong partnership is reflected in our Child Care in Schools policy adopted October 28, 1998.

The  TDSB believes that welcoming school-based child care programs gives families the advantage to access seamless learning and care for their children within one location.  For kindergarten children, child care is often the first introduction to the school environment and the transition from child care to school is made easier with the school connection.

The Board also values the early learning contributions that child care programs offer. Research has shown that high quality, licensed child care supports the development of cognitive and social skills in the early years and can enhance school readiness.

The Board currently houses over 300  child care sites in our schools offering services to  children from infants to school age. The child care centres are licensed legal Corporations that operate under the Provincial Day Nurseries Act  (Ministry of Children and Youth Services Services) and further regulated and monitored by Toronto Public Health and Children’s Services departments. Most of the child care centres can offer spaces subsidized by the City of Toronto.

Children with special needs and their families have access to child care and appropriate supports in the neighbourhood where they live. To support the inclusion of children with special needs, the Children's Services Special Services Unit provides resourcing supports to licensed child care programs in Toronto. 

To find a child care program located within a school use the Child Care Finder or you can use Search to locate a child care centre by name.

For information on how to apply for child care subsidy, quality ratings and other child care related issues please visit the Children's Services website at: http://www.toronto.ca/children/ or phone the Children's Services KIDSLINE at 416-392-KIDS(5437).

If you have questions regarding child care space availability, fees, program or registration, please contact child care centres directly for information.

Please keep in mind that school enrolment is based on your residence not on proximity to a child care centre. If the child care program of your choice does not serve your home school,  you should ask whether the local school is open to Optional Attendance .

For information about the TDSB kindergarten program and what you'll need to register for kindergarten, click here. To determine what school corresponds to your home address click here.

If you would like to speak with a Child Care Manager for the Toronto District School Board please call or e-mail:

May Jolliffe,  (East) 416-394-2072
Fidelia Torres (West) 416-394-7369