Licensed home child care programs

These child care programs are overseen by a licensed home child care agency.

If you are a program provider registered with an agency, your program can have a maximum of 6 children under 13 years old. In this maximum of 6 children:

  • no more than 3 children can be under the age of 2
  • you must count your own children under the age of 4

Licensed child care agencies must consider the following when placing a child in your home child care program:

  • the age of the other children in the group
  • the child’s ability to evacuate (leave an area) independently in an emergency
  • your experience and qualifications as a child care provider
  • the physical environment of your home
  • considerations for special needs or medical needs

Unlicensed child care programs

If you are an unlicensed child care program provider, you can have a maximum of 5 children under 13 years old. In this maximum of 5 children:

  • no more than 3 children can be under the age of 2
  • you must count your own children under the age of 4

You must inform parents/guardians that you are an unlicensed provider in writing, stating: “This child care program is not licensed by the Government of Ontario.” You must keep a copy of your written notification on file for 2 years.

Disclaimer

If you require this information in an alternative format, please contact information.met@ontario.ca. We will:

  • acknowledge your request within three business days
  • provide you with the content within 15 business days