Small home childminding for a few families

Working parents in your neighbourhood who want a homey setting, flexible hours or a smaller group than a daycare centre offers.

Monthly or weekly fee per child, usually agreed in a contract. Extra charges for late pickup or drop-in days are common.

• Patience and warmth with young children
• Reliable and well organized
• Clear communication with parents
• First aid and CPR

• Rules on unlicensed care differ by province and sometimes by municipality, so check the limits on numbers and ages of children
• Home insurance may not cover a childcare business, so ask about commercial general liability cover
• Landlord or condo rules may restrict childcare at home
• Vulnerable sector or criminal record checks may be needed for you and adults in your household, so check locally
• It is a long working day, so plan sick days, holidays and backup care
• Check how to report income and whether you need to charge GST/HST

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on your home setup and equipment. Ask your insurer about commercial general liability cover, as home insurance may not cover a childcare business.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $5,000, depending on how many families you care for and the hours you offer. Check how to report income and whether you need to charge GST/HST.

Rules on unlicensed care differ by province and sometimes by municipality, so check the limits on numbers and ages of children. Also check landlord or condo rules, and whether vulnerable sector or criminal record checks are needed.