The childcare section is one of the most popular with parents but is also one of the few that we can't even attempt to make comprehensive. In fact, there could be a whole book which does nothing but list licenced and unlicenced day care centres and providers in Toronto. We decided to focus this section mostly on larger companies which have multiple centres around the city, as well as organized (larger) homecare providers. There are a few registries as well as websites set up to connect parents with various types of childcare, from nannies to daycare. It is also worth calling Toronto Children's Services at 392-5437 or online at www.Toronto.ca/children for their list of subsidized day care.
Sometimes, if you have more than one child, it is actually more cost-effective to have a nanny. Nannies are also good if you have childcare needs that don't fit into a standard daycare's structure or hours. There are also several services which offer emergency or temporary in-home child care- a great idea for unexpected childcare needs like sick kids, respite, school strikes or even just a weekend getaway. We also have listings for baby nurses who can be an amazing help to parents during the first weeks when they come home from the hospital. Parents should ALWAYS ask for references with all of these services.
