Early Learning and Child Care

Durham Region is celebrating early learning professionals on October 21, 2021 for Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day! This day recognizes the commitment, dedication and influence of child care workers and early childhood educators, and the valuable contributions that they make in our communities. Thank you to early learning professionals for all that you do to support #DurhamRegion families. #ECEappreciation.

The Children's Services Division is the system manager for early learning and child care in Durham Region. We are committed to supporting the reopening of licensed child care and EarlyOn Child and Family Centres in a way that ensures programs are safe places that support healthy development. To support licensed child care operators during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have provided the following:

• Sample health and safety policies and PPE application
• Special edition COVID-19 Early Learning Updates
• Financial supports during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Reopening toolkit for licensed child care

Parents are encouraged to view our frequently asked questions web page for information about the enhanced health and safety measures  in licensed child care centres and homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan: 2018-2022

English version  French version

Find early learning programs and child care in your neighbourhood

On June 10, 2009 , The Durham Regional Council approved the Durham Region Child and Youth Charter – Children’s Charter. In partnership with the Durham Best Start Committee, children and youth came together in 2009 to review the rights of children and describe what they mean to them, using their own words. In 2020, we invite children and youth across Durham Region to gather, once again, and consider the meaning of these rights. 

The Children's Services Division strives to meet the diverse needs of children, families and the people who work with them. We support:

• Families who need help with the daily cost of child care.
• Children with special concerns and needs in licensed child care.
• Educators and child care operators.
• Families looking for licensed child care in the community or in our Regional Early Learning and Child Care Centres.
• Families looking for EarlyON programs.