Early Learning and Child Care
The Children's Services Division is the system manager for early learning and child care in Durham Region. The Children's Services Division is responsible for managing a coordinated and responsive early learning and child care system that supports children and their families in reaching their best potential.
New Licensee Canada Wide Child Care and Early Learning system expansion
As announced in December, the Ministry of Education is committing funds to support the expansion of child care across the province as part of the federal / provincial Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) agreement.
The Ministry of Education has provided Municipalities with guidance and targets for expansion, with a regional expansion plan to be submitted in late January 2023.
The Region of Durham, as the Child Care and Early Years Service System Manager for Durham Region is currently finalizing our expansion plan and will be ready to provide direction to current and potential licensees once the plan is finalized and approved.
Please watch our web site for updates. Thank you for your interest in opening a child care centre in the Region of Durham.
Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan: 2018-2022
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.
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.
Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator appreciation
Share your appreciation for the amazing work and dedication of child care professionals, as well as the positive difference they make in our community, by submitting a Note of Recognition.
Send a Note of Recognition for child care educators
Consent: By submitting this form, you consent to this information being used in local child care centres, durham.ca and communications materials to help celebrate child care professionals in Durham Region. We may use quotes from your note, but we will not identify you, your child, or names of any staff in any external communications. We may share your submission with staff.
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