Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Finding quality daycare in Ottawa has become one of the most stressful challenges facing new parents, with 8,500 children under five currently on waitlists and demand far outpacing available spots.
If you are expecting a baby or have recently welcomed one, the daycare hunt can feel overwhelming. Ottawa currently meets only 76% of childcare demand, and waitlists have increased by a staggering 300% since 2019. But don’t panic. This guide walks you through the steps—from registering on OneList early to understanding CWELCC fee reductions and realistic timelines—so you can plan with less guesswork.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Register on OneList during pregnancy, apply to at least 10 programs, update your application every 60 days, and take advantage of the new $22/day CWELCC cap. The ECE shortage is real, but strategic planning dramatically improves your chances.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📊 Waitlist Size | 8,500 children under 5 |
| 📈 Demand Met | Only 76% of city demand |
| 💰 CWELCC Rate | $22/day cap (January 2025) |
| 📝 OneList Limit | 9 centre-based + 5 home childcare |
| ⏰ Update Required | Every 60 days |
| 👶 Staff Ratios | 1:3 infants, 1:5 toddlers, 1:8 preschool |
Understanding Ottawa’s Daycare Crisis in 2025
The numbers tell a sobering story. Ottawa’s childcare system is under unprecedented strain, and understanding why helps you navigate the challenges more effectively.
The Statistics That Matter
Ottawa’s daycare crisis did not happen overnight. The waitlist has exploded by 300% since 2019, driven by population growth, pandemic-era disruptions, and a chronic shortage of Early Childhood Educators (ECEs). Today, approximately 8,500 children under the age of five are waiting for licensed childcare spots.
The city currently meets only 76% of childcare demand. That means roughly one in four families cannot find a licensed spot when they need one. The Ottawa Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) alone has 1,005 children on waitlists for Extended Day Programs across 68 school locations.
Why the Shortage Exists
The root cause is an ECE staffing crisis. Licensed childcare centres must maintain strict staff-to-child ratios mandated by the province:
| Age Group | Staff Ratio | Maximum Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (0-18 months) | 1:3 | 10 children |
| Toddlers (18-30 months) | 1:5 | 15 children |
| Preschool (30 months-6 years) | 1:8 | 24 children |
These ratios exist for safety and quality, but they also mean centres cannot simply add more children without hiring qualified ECEs. Unfortunately, ECE wages have historically lagged behind other professions requiring similar education, leading to high turnover and recruitment challenges.
The CWELCC program has brought fee relief for parents but added pressure on the system. Lower costs have increased demand while the supply of spots has not kept pace. This imbalance is why early registration and strategic planning are essential.
Types of Childcare in Ottawa
Before diving into registration strategies, understand your options. Each type of childcare has distinct advantages, limitations, and availability.
Licensed Childcare Centres
Licensed centres are the most sought-after option. They operate under provincial regulations, maintain mandated staff ratios, and undergo regular inspections. Quality is generally consistent, and programming often includes structured learning activities, outdoor play, and socialization opportunities.
Pros:
- Regulated quality and safety standards
- Qualified ECE staff
- CWELCC fee reductions apply
- Reliable hours and backup coverage
Cons:
- Longest waitlists (often 1-2+ years)
- Fixed schedules may not suit all work arrangements
- Higher base fees before subsidies
Licensed Home Childcare
Licensed home childcare providers operate through agencies approved by the Ministry of Education. They care for children in their own homes while meeting provincial standards.
Key regulations:
- Maximum 6 children under 13 (including provider’s own children)
- No more than 3 children under age 2
- Regular home inspections
- Provider training requirements
- CWELCC fee reductions apply
Licensed home childcare often has shorter waitlists than centres and can offer more flexible arrangements. The smaller group sizes mean more personalized attention, which some families prefer for infants and toddlers.
Unlicensed Home Childcare
Unlicensed providers care for a maximum of 5 children under 13 (not including their own). They do not fall under provincial oversight, so quality varies significantly.
Important considerations:
- No government inspections
- CWELCC does not apply (no fee cap)
- No standardized training requirements
- Typically lower costs before subsidies
- Full responsibility for vetting quality falls on parents
Some families choose unlicensed care for its flexibility, lower costs, or because they have found a trusted neighbourhood provider. However, this option requires thorough due diligence on your part.
Nanny or Au Pair
Hiring in-home childcare gives you maximum flexibility and one-on-one attention for your child.
Au Pair costs in Ottawa:
- Monthly stipend: $800-$1,000 CAD
- Plus room and board
- Plus agency fees and program costs
Nanny costs:
- $18-$25+ per hour depending on experience
- Employer responsibilities for payroll, benefits, vacation
In-home care works well for families with multiple children, unusual work schedules, or specific needs. The per-child cost becomes more economical with siblings.
School-Age Programs (Before and After School)
For children in kindergarten and up, the OCDSB and Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) offer Extended Day Programs. These provide before and after school care on school premises.
Current reality:
- 1,005 children on OCDSB Extended Day waitlists
- 68 school locations offer the program
- Not all schools have availability
- Priority often given to kindergarten children
Register early for Extended Day Programs, ideally during kindergarten registration. Some schools maintain waitlists while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis when spots open.
Mastering the OneList Registration System
OneList Ottawa is your gateway to licensed childcare. Understanding how to use it strategically can significantly improve your chances.
What Is OneList?
OneList is the centralized childcare registry for Ottawa, operated through the Human Services Network at onehsn.com/ottawa. All licensed childcare centres and licensed home childcare agencies use this system for waitlist management.
When you register on OneList, your application goes to the providers you select. Providers contact families directly when spots become available, working from their waitlists based on criteria like registration date, child age, and priority factors.
Step-by-Step Registration Guide
Step 1: Create Your Account
Visit onehsn.com/ottawa and create a parent account. You will need:
- Valid email address
- Contact information
- Expected or actual birth date of your child
- Preferred start date for care
Step 2: Search for Programs
Use filters to narrow your search:
- Location (postal code, neighbourhood, near work)
- Type of care (centre, home childcare)
- Age group
- Hours needed
- Languages offered
Step 3: Select Your Programs
You can apply to:
- Up to 9 centre-based childcare programs
- Up to 5 licensed home childcare options
- For a maximum of 14 total selections
Do not waste your selections. Research each provider before adding them to your list. Visit if possible, read reviews, and prioritize based on realistic convenience factors.
Step 4: Submit and Confirm
After submitting, you will receive confirmation emails from OneList and from individual providers acknowledging your registration. Keep these for your records.
Step 5: Update Every 60 Days
This is critical. If you do not update your OneList application every 60 days, you may be removed from waitlists. Set calendar reminders. Many providers automatically drop inactive applications.
Strategic Registration Tips
Register during pregnancy. The moment you know your expected due date, create your OneList account. Some waitlists are 18-24 months long. Registering at week 12 of pregnancy puts you ahead of parents who wait until birth.
Apply to at least 10 programs. Use your full allotment of 9 centre-based and at least 1 home childcare option. Even if you prefer centres, having home childcare backups can save you when centre spots do not materialize.
Prioritize strategically. Your top choices should be realistic, not aspirational. The most popular centres have waitlists measured in years. Mix in smaller or newer centres that may have faster turnover.
Check sibling policies. Many providers give priority to siblings of enrolled children. If you plan to have more children, finding a provider with strong sibling priority now pays dividends later.
Consider multiple neighbourhoods. Do not limit yourself to daycares near home. Centres near your workplace, along your commute, or near family members who could handle pickup emergencies all work.
Contact providers directly. OneList is the official channel, but politely reaching out to your top choices to express genuine interest can help. Some providers appreciate engaged families and may remember you when spots open.
Understanding Costs and Subsidies in 2025
The Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program has transformed childcare affordability in Ontario. Here is what Ottawa families need to know.
CWELCC Fee Reductions
As of January 1, 2025, licensed childcare fees are capped at $22 per day for children under 6 in Ontario. This represents a 52.75% reduction from 2019 benchmark rates.
| Year | Fee Reduction | Approximate Daily Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 25% | ~$35/day |
| 2023 | 37% | ~$29/day |
| 2024 | 50% | ~$23/day |
| 2025 | 52.75% | $22/day cap |
| 2026 (target) | Further reductions | $10/day goal |
Important notes:
- CWELCC only applies to licensed childcare
- Both centre-based and licensed home childcare qualify
- Unlicensed care does not receive these reductions
- The $22/day rate applies to full-day care
How Fees Work
Most licensed centres charge monthly fees. At $22 per day, you can expect approximately:
- $440-$480 per month (20-22 childcare days)
- Some centres charge flat monthly rates regardless of actual attendance days
Before CWELCC, Ottawa infant care averaged $1,500-$1,800 per month. The current $22/day cap brings costs down to roughly $480, saving families over $1,000 monthly.
Additional Subsidies
Low and moderate-income families may qualify for additional fee subsidies through the City of Ottawa. These can further reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
Eligibility factors:
- Household income
- Family size
- Employment or education status
- Special circumstances (e.g., child with special needs)
Apply for subsidy through the City of Ottawa website. Processing can take several weeks, so apply early. Subsidy is applied on top of CWELCC reductions, making licensed care potentially free or near-free for qualifying families.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
Even with reduced fees, plan for:
- Registration fees ($50-$200 one-time)
- Supply fees for diapers, wipes, sunscreen
- Waitlist deposits (sometimes refundable)
- Fees for late pickup (typically $1/minute)
- Closure days when backup care is needed
- Transition periods if your child needs part-time to start
Licensed Childcare Centres by Ottawa Area
Ottawa is a geographically large city. Here is an overview of childcare availability by area to help focus your search.
Central Ottawa (Downtown, Centretown, Glebe)
Central Ottawa has high demand and limited space. Commercial rents make operating childcare centres expensive, and many older buildings lack suitable layouts.
Notable providers:
- Andrew Chicken Nursery School
- Centretown Parents Daycare
- YMCA childcare centres
- Various workplace-based centres
Wait times in central areas often exceed 18 months. Consider expanding your search to adjacent neighbourhoods.
West End (Kanata, Stittsville, Barrhaven)
Suburban growth has outpaced childcare infrastructure. Barrhaven and Kanata are particularly undersupplied relative to their young family populations.
Strategy for west-end families:
- Register with multiple large chains (Kids and Company, YMCA)
- Check newer developments for new centres opening
- Consider licensed home childcare as primary option
- Look at school-based programs for preschool-age
East End (Orleans, Gloucester, Blackburn Hamlet)
Similar to the west end, rapid growth has strained capacity. Orleans has several established centres but waitlists remain long.
Bilingual advantage: Orleans has a strong francophone community with French-language daycare options. If your family is francophone or wants French immersion, explore these programs, which sometimes have shorter English-stream waitlists.
South End (Hunt Club, Riverside South, Findlay Creek)
Newer communities like Riverside South and Findlay Creek are seeing new childcare centres open as developments mature. Watch for new licensed spaces in these growing areas.
Rural Ottawa
Greely, Manotick, Carp, and other rural communities have very limited licensed options. Licensed home childcare is often the most practical choice, supplemented by informal care arrangements.
Major Childcare Providers in Ottawa
Several large organizations operate multiple centres across the city, offering consistent quality and potentially easier transfers between locations:
YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region The YMCA operates numerous childcare centres throughout Ottawa, often located in community centres or schools. Known for inclusive programming and focus on child development.
Kids and Company A national chain with several Ottawa locations, particularly in business districts and near major employers. Often offers flexible drop-in care and backup care programs.
Andrew Fleck Children’s Services One of Ottawa’s oldest childcare organizations, operating since 1911. Runs multiple centres and licensed home childcare programs across the city.
Grandir Ensemble French-language childcare provider operating in francophone communities across Ottawa. Excellent option for families seeking French immersion from infancy.
Ottawa Network for Education (ONFE) Manages licensed home childcare providers and school-age programs. A good resource for families seeking alternatives to centre-based care.
Applying to multiple centres within the same organization can sometimes provide flexibility if one location has availability before another.
Licensed Home Childcare: A Closer Look
Given centre waitlists, licensed home childcare deserves serious consideration. Here is what you need to know.
How Licensed Home Childcare Works
Providers contract with licensed home childcare agencies, which handle oversight, training, and placement. In Ottawa, several agencies operate:
- Ottawa Network for Education (ONFE)
- Various smaller licensed agencies
Agencies conduct home safety inspections, require provider training, and provide ongoing support. Parents pay the agency, which pays providers.
Advantages of Home Childcare
Smaller groups. With a maximum of 6 children, your child receives more individual attention than in many centre settings.
Flexibility. Some providers offer part-time schedules, early drop-off, or late pickup that centres cannot accommodate.
Shorter waitlists. Licensed home childcare spots often become available faster than centre spots.
CWELCC applies. You still get the $22/day cap and subsidy eligibility.
Home environment. Some families prefer the home-like setting over institutional environments, particularly for infants.
What to Evaluate
When considering a licensed home childcare provider:
- Visit the home and observe interactions
- Ask about daily routines and activities
- Check outdoor play space and safety measures
- Discuss backup arrangements if the provider is ill
- Understand policies on holidays, sick children, and closures
- Request references from current families
- Verify the provider is in good standing with their agency
Questions to Ask
- How long have you been providing childcare?
- What is your approach to discipline?
- What meals and snacks are provided?
- How do you handle nap time and sleep training?
- What happens if you are sick or need time off?
- How do you communicate with parents daily?
- What is your policy on screen time?
- Do you take children outside daily, even in winter?
Employer and Workplace Childcare Options
Some Ottawa employers offer childcare benefits or on-site facilities. Explore these options early.
Government Sector
Federal government workplaces have historically offered daycare centres. The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) has advocated for workplace childcare. Check with your department’s HR office.
Private Sector
Major Ottawa employers, including tech companies and hospitals, sometimes offer:
- Childcare spending accounts
- Partnerships with nearby centres for priority placement
- Emergency backup care services
- Subsidized fees at specific providers
Flexible Work Arrangements
When childcare is scarce, flexible work can bridge gaps:
- Work-from-home days aligned with partner’s schedule
- Compressed work weeks
- Shift adjustments to share care with family members
Discuss options with your employer early. Many have become more flexible post-pandemic.
Alternative Childcare Options
When licensed care is unavailable, alternatives can fill the gap.
Family Care
Grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other relatives may provide care. This is often the most trusted option for families, though it depends on family availability and willingness.
Considerations:
- No cost or reduced cost
- Trusted relationship
- May lack structured learning activities
- Can strain family relationships if expectations are unclear
- Does not qualify for CWELCC reductions
Nanny Shares
Two or more families share a nanny, splitting costs while providing social interaction for children. This works well for families with similar schedules and parenting philosophies.
How it works:
- Nanny cares for 2-4 children from different families
- Families split hourly rate and may share hosting duties
- Total cost per family is lower than solo nanny
- More stimulation for children than solo care
Finding nanny shares:
- Ottawa parent Facebook groups
- Neighbourhood associations
- Word of mouth
Parent Cooperatives
Some Ottawa neighbourhoods have informal parent cooperatives where families take turns providing care. This requires flexibility, trust, and compatible schedules.
Part-Time Combinations
Combining options can work when no single solution is available:
- Two days at licensed centre + two days with grandparent
- Part-time nanny + part-time home daycare
- Parent cooperative + one day work-from-home
Creative combinations require more coordination but can bridge the gap until full-time licensed care becomes available.
What to Expect During the Daycare Search Process
Understanding the typical timeline and what to expect can reduce anxiety during your search.
Realistic Timeline Expectations
For families planning ahead, here is what a typical daycare search looks like:
During Pregnancy (Weeks 12-20)
- Create OneList account
- Research neighbourhoods and providers
- Add 10-14 programs to your waitlist
- Set up 60-day reminder for updates
Months 1-6 After Birth
- Continue updating OneList every 60 days
- Tour any centres that offer infant tours
- Begin exploring licensed home childcare options
- Network with other parents for recommendations
Months 6-12
- Expect calls from some providers about availability
- Be ready to make quick decisions when spots open
- Have backup options identified
- Consider short-term alternatives if spots are not available
When Parental Leave Ends
- If no licensed spot is available, use backup options
- Stay on waitlists for preferred providers
- Transition when a spot opens
Handling Waitlist Calls
When a provider calls with an available spot:
- They typically give you 24-48 hours to decide
- Be prepared to accept or decline immediately
- Have questions ready about fees, schedule, and start date
- Understand their deposit requirements
- Ask about transition period and settling-in process
Do not feel guilty about declining if the provider is not right for your family. However, if you have been waiting over a year and receive an offer from a reasonable provider, seriously consider accepting even if it is not your top choice.
Red Flags to Watch For
When touring or evaluating providers, watch for:
- Staff who seem disengaged or frustrated
- Overcrowded rooms or high noise levels
- Unclean facilities or safety hazards
- Reluctance to answer questions
- High staff turnover reported by current families
- Lack of outdoor play time or equipment
- Rigid policies with no flexibility
- Poor communication with parents
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong during a visit, it probably is.
Green Flags That Indicate Quality
Look for these positive signs:
- Warm, engaged interactions between staff and children
- Clean, organized, and age-appropriate environments
- Structured daily routines posted visibly
- Regular communication with parents (apps, daily reports)
- Low staff turnover
- Positive reviews from current and former families
- Clear policies on illness, discipline, and emergencies
- Outdoor play space and daily outdoor time
Preparing for the Transition to School
For children approaching kindergarten, planning ahead prevents scrambling for before and after school care.
Kindergarten Registration Timeline
OCDSB and OCSB kindergarten registration typically opens in late January or early February for the following September. At registration, inquire immediately about Extended Day Programs.
Extended Day Program Registration
Extended Day Programs operate directly through school boards. Not all schools offer them, and capacity varies widely.
Tips for securing spots:
- Register for Extended Day at the same time as kindergarten
- Indicate your need at registration even if you are unsure
- Ask about waitlist position and when decisions are made
- Have backup plans (licensed home childcare, after-school programs)
Third-Party Before and After School Programs
If school-based programs are full, licensed third-party providers operate at or near schools. Some bus children from school to their locations. Research these during kindergarten registration.
Summer Care Transition
School-age care needs shift dramatically in summer. Start planning for summer camps and full-day programs by January or February, as popular programs fill quickly.
Ottawa Daycare FAQ
How early should I register for daycare in Ottawa?
Register as soon as you know you are expecting. Many families register by week 12-16 of pregnancy. With waitlists of 18-24 months, early registration is essential for securing spots when your parental leave ends.
What is OneList and is it mandatory?
OneList (onehsn.com/ottawa) is the centralized waitlist system for Ottawa licensed childcare. All licensed centres and licensed home childcare agencies use it. While you can contact providers directly, registration through OneList is how you officially join waitlists.
How much does daycare cost in Ottawa in 2025?
With CWELCC reductions, licensed childcare is capped at $22 per day (approximately $480/month) for children under 6. Additional subsidies based on income can reduce costs further. Unlicensed care does not receive these reductions.
What is the difference between licensed and unlicensed home childcare?
Licensed home childcare providers work through agencies, undergo inspections, receive training, and are limited to 6 children with no more than 3 under age 2. Unlicensed providers care for up to 5 children with no government oversight. CWELCC applies only to licensed care.
Why is there such a shortage of daycare spots in Ottawa?
The shortage stems from an ECE staffing crisis. Strict staff-to-child ratios (1:3 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers, 1:8 for preschool) mean centres cannot add spots without hiring qualified ECEs. Low wages and high turnover in the profession limit growth.
Do I need to update my OneList application?
Yes. You must update your OneList application every 60 days to maintain your position on waitlists. Set calendar reminders. Failure to update may result in removal from lists.
Can I apply to multiple daycares?
Yes. On OneList, you can apply to up to 9 centre-based programs and 5 licensed home childcare options (14 total). Apply to as many as you reasonably would accept to maximize your chances.
What is sibling priority?
Many childcare centres give priority to siblings of already enrolled children. If you plan to have more children, choosing a centre with strong sibling priority can ease future childcare searches.
Is there financial help for childcare in Ottawa?
Yes. Beyond CWELCC reductions ($22/day cap), the City of Ottawa offers income-tested subsidies that can further reduce or eliminate fees. Apply through the city’s website.
What should I look for when visiting a daycare?
Observe staff-child interactions, check cleanliness and safety, ask about daily routines and programming, inquire about communication practices, understand illness policies, and trust your instincts about the environment and staff.
How do I handle the stress of the daycare search?
The daycare search is genuinely stressful, especially for first-time parents. Connect with other parents in Ottawa Facebook groups or neighbourhood associations who understand the process. Remember that the situation is temporary and many families successfully navigate even long waitlists. Focus on what you can control: registering early, keeping applications updated, and staying flexible about options.
What if I cannot find licensed care when my parental leave ends?
Many families face this situation. Options include licensed home childcare, which often has shorter waitlists, family care from grandparents or relatives, nanny shares with other families, or unlicensed home childcare with thorough vetting. Stay on waitlists for your preferred licensed options and transition when spots become available.
Resources for Ottawa Parents
Essential Websites
| Resource | URL | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| OneList Ottawa | onehsn.com/ottawa | Centralized daycare registration |
| City of Ottawa | ottawa.ca/childcare | Subsidies and information |
| Ontario Ministry | ontario.ca/childcare | CWELCC information |
| OCDSB | ocdsb.ca | Extended Day Programs |
| OCSB | ocsb.ca | Catholic school programs |
Parent Community Groups
Ottawa has active parent communities that share daycare tips, openings, and recommendations:
- Ottawa Mommy Club (Facebook)
- Ottawa Baby and Parenting Groups
- Neighbourhood-specific parent groups (Barrhaven Parents, Kanata Moms, Orleans Families)
- Reddit r/ottawa parenting threads
These communities often share real-time information about new centre openings, provider recommendations, and waitlist strategies that work.
Additional Support
If you are struggling with the daycare search or childcare costs:
- Ontario Works provides childcare subsidies for eligible families
- Employment Ontario can help with childcare during job training
- Family Resource Centres throughout Ottawa offer parenting support and sometimes childcare referrals
- 211 Ontario (call 211) connects families with local services and supports
Final Thoughts
Finding daycare in Ottawa in 2025 requires strategy, patience, and flexibility. The waitlist crisis is real, but thousands of families navigate it successfully each year. Start early, use your OneList selections wisely, stay on top of updates, and remain open to different childcare types.
The financial picture has improved dramatically with CWELCC, bringing licensed care within reach for more families. Take advantage of the $22/day cap and explore subsidy options if you qualify.
Above all, remember that the stress of the search is temporary. You will find care for your child. In the meantime, connect with other Ottawa parents going through the same process. Local parent groups on Facebook and neighbourhood associations can provide support, share tips, and help you feel less alone in the search.
Good luck with your daycare hunt. Your future self, and your child, will thank you for the effort you put in now.
Sources: City of Ottawa Childcare Services, OneList Ottawa, Ontario Ministry of Education, OCDSB Extended Day Program
