Drop-off playgroup for preschoolers

Parents who want part-day care and social time for their preschooler, including those who work part-time or are at home with younger siblings.

Monthly fees per child based on the days attended. Revenue depends on licensed capacity, your hours and staff costs.

• Early childhood education or childcare experience
• Managing a small team and staff ratios
• Clear communication with parents

• Childcare licensing, which is provincial and strict about staff qualifications, ratios, space and group size, so check before taking any child
• Vulnerable sector checks, first aid and CPR for all staff
• Commercial general liability insurance, and workers' compensation (WCB or WSIB) once you hire, check provincial rules
• Licensing and set-up can take months, so plan your cash flow
• Quebec has its own childcare system and French-language rules, check with the relevant ministry if you are there

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on your premises, equipment and set-up. Licensing and set-up can take months, so it helps to plan your cash flow for that period before any income arrives.

Childcare licensing is provincial and strict about staff qualifications, ratios, space and group size, so check before taking any child. Also check vulnerable sector checks, first aid and CPR for staff, insurance, and Quebec's own childcare system and French-language rules.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on group size, how many mornings you run and your costs. Estimates also suggest planning for at least about 15 hours a week of running time.