Childcare & Early Learning in Caledon
Schools & Family · ~6 min read · Updated 2026
For families with young children, licensed childcare availability is a real factor in the neighbourhood decision. Caledon's childcare landscape includes licensed centre-based programs, home childcare, and school-based before-and-after-school programs — and it's growing alongside the community. Here's the practical picture for Windrose buyers.
The childcare landscape
Ontario licenses childcare through the Ministry of Education, and the Region of Peel administers subsidies and coordinates the system locally. Options include licensed centre-based childcare (infant through preschool), licensed home childcare, and before-and-after-school programs run in partnership with the school boards.
The Canada-wide early learning and childcare program
Ontario participates in the federal $10-a-day childcare initiative through participating licensed providers. Fees for eligible children under six are subsidized at participating centres — confirm participation with the specific centre you're considering.
Common program types
| Program type | Age range typically served | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Infant care | 6 mo–18 mo | Highest demand, longest waitlists |
| Toddler care | 18 mo–2.5 y | Still competitive |
| Preschool | 2.5–4 y | Often broader availability |
| Before & after school | 4–12 y (JK–Gr 6) | Runs at or near schools |
| Home childcare | Mixed ages | Licensed agencies oversee |
Waitlists — plan early
Infant and toddler spaces are often waitlisted well in advance. If you're planning a family or expecting a baby, get on lists early — even before your Windrose home closes. Many centres allow waitlist registration without a specific start date.
Fee subsidies
The Region of Peel administers subsidized childcare for eligible families. Applications are handled through the Region. The federal childcare program reduces fees for participating centres — a separate program from Region subsidies.
What to look at when choosing
School-based programs
Before-and-after-school programs typically run at the child's school or a nearby location, coordinated between the boards (PDSB and Dufferin-Peel) and licensed providers. These start once your child is in Full-Day Kindergarten (age 4).
Related reading
For schools generally, see /blog/peel-school-board-caledon-catchment and /blog/catholic-vs-public-schools-peel.
Frequently asked questions
- How competitive is infant childcare in Caledon?
- Infant spaces are the most competitive category across the GTA, and Caledon is no exception. Get on multiple waitlists early.
- Is the $10-a-day program available in Caledon?
- Ontario participates in the federal childcare program. Participation is at the licensed centre level — confirm with specific centres.
- How do I apply for a subsidy?
- Region of Peel administers subsidized childcare for eligible families. Apply through the Region.
- Are there enough spaces for growing communities?
- Availability is expanding but often lags demand in high-growth areas. Plan early.
- Can I get childcare near my Windrose address?
- Options in the area are growing with the community. Check licensed centre lists and confirm current availability before assuming.