Ottawa Daycare Options: 10 Licensed Centers for Your Family

Ottawa, Canada’s capital city with a population exceeding one million, experiences ongoing challenges in meeting childcare demand. As a hub for government workers and growing tech sector employees, the city sees high demand for quality daycare services. Wait times for licensed childcare spots in Ottawa typically range from 8 to 18 months, with infant care being particularly scarce.

Ottawa’s Childcare Framework

The City of Ottawa works within provincial regulations to ensure childcare quality and accessibility. Licensed centers must adhere to Ontario’s standards for health, safety, ratios, and programming. Despite expansion efforts and the implementation of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care agreement, finding available daycare spaces remains a significant challenge for Ottawa families.

10 Licensed Daycare Centers in Ottawa

WhileThese facilities maintain full licensing under Ontario regulations and serve various neighborhoods.

1. Kinderville

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

2. MATRESHKA

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

3. Ganon Preschool

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

4. OCDSB Rockcliffe Park Extended Day Program

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

5. Garderie Oasis Child Care Centre

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

6. La Coccinelle, De La Découverte

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

7. St. Elizabeth EDP

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

8. MYRIAM M.DAYCARE

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

9. Garderie Providence Day Care Centre

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

10. Centre Éducatif Tournesol

Licensed childcare facility providing quality early learning programs for children in Ottawa.

Key Considerations for Ottawa Parents

When evaluating daycare options in Ottawa, consider proximity to home or work, as the city’s geography can mean significant commute times. Many centers offer priority enrollment for siblings or specific catchment areas. Federal government employees may have access to workplace daycare facilities with different waitlist systems.

Bilingual programming is widely available in Ottawa, reflecting the city’s official bilingualism. Parents seeking French-language or immersion programs should inquire specifically about language offerings.

Waitlist Strategies

Ottawa parents typically register on multiple waitlists simultaneously. The OneHSN (formerly OCHIS) centralized waitlist covers many centers, but some facilities maintain independent lists. Regular communication with daycare administrators and flexibility on start dates can improve placement chances.

For a complete directory of Ottawa daycare options, visit DaycareLocator.com’s Ottawa listings.

Financial Planning

With the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care program implementation, many Ottawa families now pay reduced fees. However, costs vary by age group and center type. Parents should inquire about fee structures, subsidy eligibility, and additional costs for meals or activities when selecting a daycare.