Search for daycare costs in Newmarket or East Gwillimbury and you’ll see different numbers, especially when people mention Ontario’s $22-a-day childcare program. But two providers advertising a similar daily fee may operate under very different rules.
Before comparing prices, it’s worth finding out which programs qualify for public fee reductions, what the advertised rate includes, and what happens when a child is sick or a family is on vacation. Those details can matter more than the headline amount.
What does Ontario’s $22-a-day fee cap mean?
As of October 2026, Ontario caps base fees for eligible children under age six at $22 per day or less in licensed childcare programs participating in the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system (CWELCC). Some participating programs charge less.
That cap doesn’t mean every daycare in Ontario costs $22 a day. A licensed program must participate to offer the relevant CWELCC fee reductions. An independent, unlicensed home daycare is not part of CWELCC.
Read the current Ontario CWELCC information and check with each provider before relying on a price. Government arrangements and fees can change after this article is published.
How much does Diana Daycare cost?
Diana Daycare is an independent, unlicensed home childcare program in Newmarket. Its rates are set privately, not through CWELCC. The advertised starting rate is shown on our current Spaces & Rates page. The final amount depends on the available days and your agreed schedule.
For the most up-to-date figure, use the Diana Daycare Spaces & Rates page. The figure there is the one to confirm with Diana before enrolling. A privately set amount that happens to match a government cap does not make the program CWELCC-participating.
Check the linked rates page or request a quote for your child’s age, preferred days and start date. Rates and availability can change.
What’s included in the daily care?
The daily routine includes a healthy lunch and two snacks, along with play, stories, creative activities, outdoor time when the weather allows and a chance to rest. Children attend in a group of no more than five with one consistent caregiver.
The regular daycare hours are Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM. That is the operating schedule, not a promise that any particular days or times are still available for enrollment.
See the daily daycare schedule to learn more about what a typical day involves.
Why the same daily rate can mean different things
Ask each provider what you pay for and what you receive. Is the quoted amount the rate for a full day? Does it include meals, supplies, holiday closures or an enrollment deposit? Does it change for part-time schedules?
At some providers, a low advertised figure applies only to participating age groups or particular days. Others offer privately set rates and different attendance rules. Always compare your child’s age and your actual weekly schedule, not generic example prices.
If you’re deciding between a centre and a smaller home setting, our home daycare versus daycare centre comparison covers practical differences beyond fees.
Questions worth asking before you sign
- Part-time: Is a minimum number of days required? At Diana Daycare, part-time is generally considered for at least three days a week when space permits.
- Illness: Which days are charged when a child must stay home?
- Holidays and vacations: How do statutory holidays, family vacations and provider closures affect fees?
- Deposits: Is there a registration fee or deposit, and is it refundable?
- Late pickup: Is there a fee or another policy after the agreed pickup time?
- Notice: What notice is needed to change or end care?
- Payments and receipts: What methods are accepted and when do you receive receipts?
These are questions to confirm with Diana, not claims about policies that haven’t been established for every family.
Are childcare payments tax deductible?
Some families may be able to claim eligible childcare expenses under the Canada Revenue Agency’s rules. Eligibility and maximum deductible amounts depend on the family’s circumstances, and the deduction is different from a refundable credit.
Childcare providers must give receipts when required. Keep documentation and review the CRA’s childcare expense deduction guidance for the relevant tax year, or ask a qualified tax professional.
How to get a useful quote
Tell Diana your child’s age, the days of the week you need care, when you hope to start and whether any special arrangements should be discussed. She can confirm the current rate and whether the schedule works.
Consider visiting before committing. A daily price can’t tell you how an adult responds when your child is upset, whether the environment feels manageable or how the day is organized. The admission inquiry form is a useful first step.
Daycare fees: frequently asked questions
Is Diana Daycare part of the $22-a-day government program?
No. Diana Daycare is an independent, unlicensed home childcare program and sets fees privately. Ontario’s CWELCC reductions apply to eligible children at participating licensed programs.
Does the daily fee include meals?
A healthy lunch and two snacks are included in the regular routine. Discuss allergies and special dietary needs directly.
What about part-time care?
Part-time requests may be considered for a minimum of three days per week, depending on available days.
Where should I check today’s starting rate?
Use the current Spaces & Rates page and ask Diana to confirm your individual schedule.
Learn about Diana’s home daycare, see the daily routine or ask about a visit. This child care program is not licensed by the Government of Ontario.