What's CWELCC and why does it mean I only pay $22/day?+
CWELCC (Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care) is a federal program that funds licensed childcare providers so they can charge less. In Ontario, providers who enrol in the agreement receive a government subsidy that brings the cost down to $22 per child per day - for every qualifying family, no income test required. You don't apply separately. You just enrol with a participating provider and that's your rate.
Are these home daycares independent businesses or employees of the agency?+
Each home daycare on BradfordKids.com is an independent business. The provider owns and operates their own home daycare - they set their own routines, manage their own parent communications, and handle their own day-to-day operations. The Best 4 Kids Home Daycare Agency supports them with compliance, policies, and CWELCC enrollment, but the provider is the business owner. You are entering into a care relationship directly with them.
Who do I contact if I have a question - the agency or the provider?+
For day-to-day matters - drop-off times, meals, your child's day, schedule changes - you communicate directly with your provider. They manage all parent relations themselves. The agency is there in the background for policy questions, compliance, CWELCC administration, or if a serious concern arises that your provider can't resolve. Think of the agency as the professional framework that keeps everything running correctly, while the provider is your primary contact.
Is the provider insured?+
Yes. Each registered home daycare provider carries their own liability insurance as a requirement of operating under the agency. This protects both the provider and the families in their care. Insurance is the provider's responsibility as an independent business owner - it is verified by The Best 4 Kids Agency as part of the registration process. Visit
www.thebest4kids.ca for more details.
Why does it matter that daycares are registered under an agency?+
An independent home daycare operating on its own has no oversight. When a provider is registered under The Best 4 Kids Agency, they operate under Ontario's Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA), they've been background-checked, their home has been inspected, their policies meet Ministry of Education standards, and the agency conducts regular visits. You get the warmth of a home setting with the structure and accountability of a licensed operation.
How many kids are in the home at one time?+
Ontario law caps it at 6 children total - including the provider's own children under 13. Of those 6, no more than 3 can be under age 2. That's the maximum. Your child is never one of 20 - that small group size is one of the biggest advantages of home daycare.
What ages do these home daycares accept?+
Our registered providers accept children from as young as 6 weeks through to 6 years of age - up to the end of Senior Kindergarten. Different providers specialize in different age ranges. Browse the daycares page to find the right match for your child's age.
Do I sign a contract with the provider or the agency?+
Both. You will sign a care agreement directly with your provider covering hours, fees, notice periods, and daily expectations - because they are the business owner providing the care. The agency provides the standard contract template that meets CCEYA requirements and also handles the CWELCC enrollment paperwork. Everything is documented and both sides are protected.
Do they feed my child, or do I pack a lunch?+
Most providers include all meals - breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack - as part of the $22/day. A few may ask you to send food for very young infants on specific formulas. Confirm meal arrangements directly with your provider when you meet. Most parents don't need to pack anything.
How long does it take to get a spot?+
The agency typically responds within 1-2 business days of your application. Once you've met the provider and both sides are happy, most children start within a week or two. Some providers have spots available immediately. Include your ideal start date in your application - it helps us match you faster.
What happens if my provider is sick?+
If the provider is ill, the home closes for the day - this is one of the honest trade-offs of home daycare compared to a centre. Most providers give as much advance notice as possible. It's worth having a backup plan if you have a strict work schedule. The agency can assist with finding temporary alternatives where available.
Can I visit the home before committing?+
Absolutely - and you should. The agency will connect you with the provider so you can arrange a visit, see the space, and get a feel for the environment. Most families know within the first visit whether it's the right fit. There is no pressure to commit on the spot.
