English day camp for newcomer and visiting kids

Families new to Canada, immigrant parents who want their children to gain confidence in English, and families of international students or visitors looking for a holiday programme.

A fee per child per week, often with sibling discounts and early-bird pricing. Some operators add paid extras such as outings or extended care hours.

• Teaching or tutoring children
• Planning programmes and schedules
• Clear communication with parents
• Managing a small team of helpers

• Check with your province whether a day camp needs child care or recreation licensing, as rules vary widely
• Commercial general liability insurance, usually with abuse and molestation coverage, and a venue that allows commercial use
• Vulnerable sector checks for all staff and volunteers, plus child-to-staff ratios and first aid certification
• Food allergies, and check with your local public health unit if you serve meals
• Cash flow is seasonal, with income concentrated in a few weeks of the year

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on venue rental, insurance, materials and staffing. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many children enrol and how many weeks you run.

Check with your province whether a day camp needs child care or recreation licensing. Also check commercial general liability insurance with abuse and molestation coverage, venue rules, vulnerable sector checks, child-to-staff ratios, first aid certification, food allergies and local public health rules.

Estimates start at about 15 hours a week, depending on programme length and planning. Cash flow is seasonal, with income concentrated in a few weeks of the year. Helpful skills include teaching children, planning schedules, communicating with parents and managing helpers.