Through the Early Learning and Care Policy, the TDSB recognizes the Early Years as being critically important in supporting children’s holistic development and in attaining and supporting the mission and values of the Board. As required under the Education Act, the TDSB supports more than 350 fee-based Before-and After-School Programs serving students in Kindergarten to Grade 6 in schools where sufficient demand and viability has been demonstrated.
The TDSB assesses demand for Before- and After-School Programs annually to determine if there is sufficient interest and viability to develop a new program, thereby creating greater opportunities for access to students and their families. The TDSB has used data as well as local knowledge to assess demand and viability.
TDSB Before- and After-School Programs for 2020-21
If there is already a Before- and After-School Program at a school, it is recommended that parents/guardians connect directly with the program for more information, including details about registration, days and hours of operation, as well as program fees. Before- and After-School program fees are generally in the range of $29-$38 per day.
Families accessing a fee subsidy through the City of Toronto will be able to apply this at Extended Day Programs and most school-based licensed child cares. For more information about fee subsidies, please visit the City of Toronto website or call 311.
If your school does not offer a Before- and After-School Program, please refer to the City of Toronto’s Child Care & Before-After School Program Locator for community-based programs.
Types of Before- and After-School Programs
Authorized Recreational and Skill Building Programs
Authorized Recreational and Skill Building Programs provide care and programming for children from Kindergarten to Grade 6 at the end of the school day. These programs provide activities that promote recreational, artistic, musical, or athletic skills. Authorized Recreational and Skill Building Programs operate in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act.
Extended Day Programs (EDP)
Extended Day Programs (EDP) are TDSB directly operated programs that provide seamless learning for children from Kindergarten to Grade 6 who require care before school starts and at the end of the school day. Children develop skills such as collaboration, responsibility, problem-solving, creativity, citizenship and leadership through interesting activities. Extended Day Programs are delivered by TDSB staff, including a Designated Early Childhood Educator, and operate in accordance with the Education Act.
Licensed Child Care
Licensed Child Care provides early learning and care programs for children from Kindergarten to Grade 6 who require care before school starts and at the end of the school day. These play-based programs complement the regular school day with a mix of exploration, guided independent activities, quiet time and outdoor learning. Licensed Child Care programs operate in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act and Child Care Licensing Standards.