Searching for childcare? Here’s why a home daycare may be the best choice
If you’re a parent to young children, chances are you have been on more daycare waitlists than you can count. And if you are still waiting, you are not alone. With Canada’s childcare crisis deepening, licensed daycare centre waitlists have more than doubled in some regions. According to CityNews, this leaves many families waiting up to six years for a spot. Home daycare providers are quietly filling this gap, making up nearly 60 per cent of Canada’s childcare market, while offering flexible and accessible options for families.
This blog breaks down why home daycares are often misunderstood, what parents should know about their options, and why more families are turning to it as a high-quality, reliable solution.
First, Let’s Address The Stigma of Home-Based Childcare
Somewhere along the way, a stigma formed around home childcare. It comes from misconceptions and the idea that bigger means better. The reality looks very different.
Many home daycare providers are highly skilled, deeply committed early childhood professionals who create safe, nurturing, and developmentally rich environments for children, and are known for:
- Building strong, trusting relationships
- Offering small group sizes with individualized attention
- Creating warm, home-based spaces where children feel safe and seen
- Planning thoughtful, play-based learning experiences
- Communicating closely with families
- Supporting emotional development with consistency and care
They are early learning professionals (not babysitters) in a setting designed for connection, comfort, and growth.
The Difference Between Licensed vs. Unlicensed Home Childcare (in Ontario specifically)
One of the biggest sources of confusion comes from understanding the difference between licensed and unlicensed childcare.
Here is a simple breakdown:
Licensed Home Childcare
Licensed home childcare is overseen by a licensed agency. This includes:
- Regular inspections
- Established health and safety standards
- Training and support for providers
- Ongoing monitoring and access to resources
Licensed homes can care for up to six children, with specific rules around age groupings.
Unlicensed Home Childcare
Unlicensed does not mean unsafe or unqualified. It is legal, and simply means the provider operates independently rather than through an agency. Providers must follow provincial regulations, including:
- Caring for no more than five children under age 13, including their own under age four
- Meeting health and safety expectations
- Following all provincial guidelines
Many unlicensed home daycare providers are experienced, trained, and incredibly dedicated. Some choose to remain independent for flexibility, autonomy, or to run their daycare in a way that reflects their values and approach.
There are exceptional home daycare providers in both licensed and unlicensed settings. What matters most is the quality of care, not just the label.
Why More Families Are Choosing Home Childcare
With large centres facing staffing shortages, long waitlists, and limited capacity, more families are exploring home daycares as a reliable and high-quality option.
Home childcare offers:
Smaller Groups
Children benefit from being known, understood, and supported by a consistent caregiver in a close-knit environment.
Flexible Routines and Schedules
Home daycares can adapt to children’s needs and interests, and also to parent’s schedules (for example, shift workers) in ways that larger settings often cannot.
Strong Relationships
Children spend their days with one primary provider, building trust and consistency over time.
Real-Life Learning
From cooking and gardening to outdoor play and mixed-age interaction, learning happens through everyday experiences.
A Sense of Belonging
For many families, home childcare feels like an extension of home. It can feel less intimidating compared to a large centre.
The People Behind Home Childcare
Behind every home daycare is someone doing deeply meaningful, often invisible work.
They are planning days that balance learning and play, supporting developmental milestones, guiding behaviour, preparing meals, communicating with families, and creating environments where children feel safe, confident, and cared for.
They are also small business owners who manage enrolment, finances, scheduling, and operations, all while showing up every day with patience, consistency, and care.
What makes home daycare providers unique is the level of connection they bring to their work. They get to know each child deeply, notice the small changes, celebrate the milestones, and build relationships that often last for years.
They are a critical part of the childcare system and a powerful part of many families’ support systems.
Connect With A Home Daycare Provider Today
While childcare centres can be an incredible option for families, there is another path you can take if you’re feeling stuck or unsure of your options.
Many families exploring home daycares in Canada quickly realize they are not settling. They are choosing a personal, flexible childcare experience that truly fits their needs. Download Her Yes Club from the App Store or Google Play Store today to connect with trusted home daycare providers and find care that works for your family!
