Home-Based montessori preschool

Parents of children roughly aged 2.5 to 6 who want a Montessori approach and a small, homely setting.

Monthly tuition per child, with half-day or full-day places. Some programs add registration fees or extended-hours charges.

• Early childhood education or Montessori training
• Patience and calm with young children
• Clear communication with parents
• Organising a daily routine

• Child care licensing differs by province and territory, so check with your provincial regulator whether you need a licence or must work through a licensed home child care agency
• Check municipal zoning and whether you need a home-based business licence
• Commercial general liability insurance, plus checks on your home insurance and landlord permission if you rent
• Police record checks with vulnerable sector screening, first aid and CPR training are commonly required, so confirm locally
• The word 'Montessori' is not always protected, but parents often expect trained staff, so be clear about your qualifications
• Fee rules and funding programs for licensed child care vary by province, so check how they affect what you can charge

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $20,000 CAD, depending on your materials, furnishings and how you set up the dedicated space. Check your home insurance and landlord permission if you rent.

Child care licensing differs by province and territory, so check with your provincial regulator whether you need a licence or must work through a licensed home child care agency. Also check zoning, police record checks, first aid and CPR requirements.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $9,000 CAD, depending on group size and fees. Funding programs for licensed child care vary by province and may affect what you can charge. Expect roughly 25 hours a week or more.