In Ontario, individuals can care for a maximum of five children under the age of 13 years of age and no more than three children under 2 - in addition to their own children under the age of 4 - if in their own home. This applies regardless of the number of adults present at the location. Unlicensed child care arrangements are made between the parents and the child care provider.
What is the ministry's role?
In Ontario, parents should be aware that unlicensed child care providers are not monitored by the Ministry of Education. However, the Ministry of Education does investigate all complaints from the public regarding child care providers who may be operating illegally. It is up to parents to research, choose and monitor their child care arrangements.
What information can I find in the registry of child care violations?
The registry provides information on violations under the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014, including where unlicensed child care providers have been found to be:
- providing care to more than five children under 13 years of age
and/or
- providing child care at more than one private residence without a licence.
Please note: only violations that have been verified by the ministry will be found in this registry. It is up to parents to research further about their child care options.
How does the registry work?
The registry will allow you to search for violations that have been verified by the ministry through the:
- Provider's name
- Provider's business name and/or
- Provider's address
How to report a complaint or inquire about a violation?
To report a complaint about unlicensed child care, please contact us:
Telephone: 1-844-516-6263
Email: information.met@ontario.ca
