Which is the best daycare for my child?

You've decided to put your child into daycare. But now you need to decide which type of daycare will match your expectations.. and then get a spot!
These different types of establishments offer different benefits.
Make your choice!

Common rules for all daycares

Day cares are regulated by the provincial and territorial governments. Meaning that the specific rules day cares must follow vary by province. Still all day cares in Canada must follow the Federal Day Nurseries Act.

Children are supervised by a director (early childhood supervisor) and professionals (childcare assistants and early childhood educators). Other people (pediatrician, psychologist...) may occasionally provide support when needed.

Centers all follow safety and hygiene practices that are standard for other establishments such as schools.

The different types of daycare centers

But there are several kinds of daycares. Some may be better suited to your preferences... so do your research beforehand!
 

Montessori

Daycares that are based on the Montessori educational approach offer children a choice between multiple activities. The Montessori method focuses less on instruction and more on discovery. In a Montessori daycare you might expect to see children moving freely about and children of different ages working together on different types of educational activities. 

Language immersion

Are you thinking of putting your child in an French immersion program when he starts school? Why not prepare him early by introducing a new language at an even younger age? A bi-lingual daycare will help your child get used to a second language even if he hasn't started speaking yet.

Religious care

Many churches offer daycare as well. If you'd like your child's care to be based around your religious principles then this might the right type of care for you. Prayer and religious study are bred into the daycare activities. 

At-work daycare

Exactly as the name suggests this type of daycare is provided by the employer. Not many companies offer onsite (or close) daycare for their employees but if you are so fortunate to work for one usually it's beneficial for you to take advantage of the opportunity.