Montessori-style care
Independence, focus and curiosity.
- Hands-on materials and child-led routines
- Interactive environments that build confident personalities
- Respectful, self-paced development
Ontario's network of licensed home daycares
Childhood, unplugged.
Licensed, Montessori-inspired home childcare focused on children's mental health. Children grow through play, hands-on activities and real human connection, and we discourage the use of TVs and tablets while they're in our care.
✓Licensed by the Ministry of Education
✓Background-checked, CPR-certified
✓Play first, screens discouraged
6 children max
per home
per home
Daily activity
reports
reports
Play first,
screens discouraged
screens discouraged
Care for every kind of day
What does your family need?
Full-time home daycare
Small groups, hot meals and naps in a cozy licensed home.
ExploreBefore & after school
Where the school day ends and a warm, playful home begins.
ExploreParents' sudden plans
Date nights, sick days and last-minute meetings, covered.
ExploreDaycare at events
A hands-on play zone at weddings, conferences and parties.
Explore
Our focus: children's mental health
Healthy minds grow through play
The early years are when children learn to understand their feelings, focus, and connect with others. That's why every Little Larks caregiver fills the day with activities and play, and why we discourage TVs, tablets and phones while children are in our care. Play and real connection come first.
Learning through playSensory bins, art, music, building and practical life activities every day.
Emotional supportCaregivers help children name their feelings, calm down and solve problems together.
Real connectionTalking, reading and playing together build language, empathy and friendships.
Outdoors every dayFresh air and active play, twice a day when the weather allows.
What makes us unique
A one-of-a-kind community of trusted caregivers
Childcare is more than supervision. It's a nurturing relationship built on trust, care and shared values. Every caregiver in our network is handpicked, supported and celebrated for the heart they bring.
Mental-health focused
Active, sensory-based learning, with screens discouraged.
- We choose caregivers who put play ahead of screens
- Daily activity plans and play-based learning
- Emotional support built into every day
Parenting-style matched
Matched by temperament, routines and family values.
- Quiz-based matching: gentle, structured, bilingual and more
- Suits neurodiverse kids, high-energy learners and shy toddlers
- Better fit means longer-lasting care relationships
Childhood should be filled with laughter, curiosity and real human connection, not screens. Our caregivers help families raise children resilient enough for today's digital world.Founder, Little Larks Licensed Childcare · PhD in Education (Canada), Master's (USA)
Why families choose Little Larks
Little details that make a big difference
Play first, screens discouraged
Play, creativity and emotional growth fill the day.
Mixed-age grouping
Older children lead, younger ones learn by watching.
Daily activity reports
See what your child explored, ate and enjoyed.
Certified caregivers
Police-checked and CPR and First Aid trained.
Real-time peace of mind
Video check-ins, secure messaging and GPS tracking.
Bilingual & cultural focus
English and French care that celebrates every family.
Parents say
Happy kids, relaxed parents
Serving the greater Ottawa area
Licensed to operate across the City of Ottawa
Little Larks is licensed as a home child care agency by Ontario's Ministry of Education and the City of Ottawa. Our caregivers can welcome children in licensed homes right across the city, so parents can contribute fully to Ottawa's culture and economy.
Licensed by the Ministry of Education & the City of Ottawa
For families
Guides & policies
Earn rewards just by spreading the word
Refer a child to any Little Larks program. When they enrol for a longer stay, you receive a Starbucks gift card, and another one every year they renew. Friends, community members and employers are all welcome.
Parents of enrolled children are not eligible. Email enrol@littlelarks.ca or call 613-404-2843.Licensed home daycare programs
A cozy, home-based alternative to daycare.
Our licensed home providers go beyond babysitting, creating enriched experiences where children thrive through play, with screens discouraged. They blend play, learning and safety, giving parents peace of mind and kids unforgettable memories.
For enrolled families
Parent forms
Once your child's space is confirmed, please complete these three forms before your child's first day. They're required for licensing by Ontario's Ministry of Education and go straight to the Little Larks office.
Child Enrolment Form
Your child's details, parents, custody arrangements, authorized pick-up and emergency information.
Open formFee Agreement with Parents
Confirms your child's enrolment, the agreed daily fee, the payment schedule and care terms.
Open formParents' Consent and Confirmations
Required consents and sign-offs, including our Parent Issues & Concerns and Safe Arrival & Dismissal policies.
Open formHave these ready
- Your child's immunization record
- Emergency contact details
- Names and phone numbers of anyone authorized to pick up your child
- Any allergy or medical care plan
- Custody documents, if they apply (email them to enrol@littlelarks.ca)
Not on the waitlist yet?
Joining is free. We'll contact you when a space opens with a licensed caregiver near you.
Policies for parents
Read before you sign
Your Consent and Confirmations form asks you to confirm you've read these policies.
Full-time care
Licensed home daycare centres
Small group care
Six children at most, with a focus on socializing and creativity.
Montessori-inspired
Practical life skills and hands-on play.
Daily activity reports
We share each child's daily journey with you.
Hot meals & nap times
Child-specific food items and comfy beds.
Before & after school care
Where the school day ends, and a warm, playful home begins
- Play, snacks and rest in a cozy home setting, with screens discouraged
- Light homework or reading time, if you'd like it
- Care before and after work hours that follows your schedule
- One familiar caregiver your child knows and trusts
Weekend care
Where weekends are for fun, and parents get a moment to recharge
- Play, crafts and outdoor fun in a home-like setting, with screens discouraged
- Activities matched to your child's interests and energy
- Time for you to run errands or enjoy a well-deserved break
- The same caring caregiver, weekend after weekend
Child safety is our No. 1 priority
How we protect your trust
Vetted & verified
Identity verification and police clearance. Only those who pass every check join.
CPR & First Aid
All caregivers hold child-focused CPR and First Aid certification.
Video check-ins
Consent-based live glimpses of your child, with no extra hardware.
Regularly inspected
Unannounced visits keep every home safe, clean and engaging.
Play-first early years
Engagement through play, learning and emotional support.
Private, secure messaging
All messages and media are encrypted and stored securely.
Reviews & feedback
We monitor feedback and hold caregivers accountable.
Support when you need it
Clear emergency protocols and direct access to our team.
Cleanliness & illness prevention
Clean homes, healthy kids
Daily sanitation
Doorknobs, tables and toys are disinfected with child-safe products. Bedding is washed, and hands are washed at every key moment. It's how we teach respect for shared spaces.
Health & illness procedures
Gentle wellness checks every morning. Sick kids stay home and return after 24 hours symptom-free. If a child becomes unwell, we call you right away.
Backup care
When caregivers are unwell, they stay home too. Little Larks may provide a certified, trained substitute.
Ontario Ministry of Education approved policies
These policies foster health, mutual respect and well-being so children thrive every day.
AnaphylaxisCompliance & contraventionsCriminal reference checkDrug & medication administrationSerious occurrencesSleep supervisionSupervision of student volunteersStanding & recreational waterTraining & developmentWaiting list
Our homes
Some of our licensed home daycares
Jasmine Daycare
Vincent Massey Ave, Ottawa
Rose Daycare
Regiment Ave, Ottawa, ON
Parent testimonials
In their words
“Little Larks taught my son to love exploring. No iPad needed!”
SSarah M.Ottawa
“My daughter still talks about the mud kitchen and bug hunt!”
EEmma L.Kanata
“It's rare to find childcare that aligns with our family's values.”
MMichael D.Nepean
“Our wedding day was stress-free. Parents couldn't stop thanking us!”
LLena & Arjun S.Orléans
Parents' peace of mind is our mission
With Little Larks, you're not just finding care. You're building trust.
Pop-up daycares for events
Kids have fun and make memories, while grown-ups enjoy their moment.
Parents shouldn't have to choose between bringing the kids and missing the moment. We bring a safe, engaging, hands-on play zone right to your venue.
Licensed childcare agency with commercial liability insurance
What is a pop-up daycare?
Not babysitting. A fully managed program.
A structured, activity-based childcare program we set up at your location, so you and your guests can relax and enjoy the event.
Ages 0–12infant quiet zone1:4younger children1:6school-age4 hrsminimumInsuredcommercial liability
Every pop-up includes
- A dedicated team of trained, screened, CPR-certified caregivers
- A fun, hands-on play zone with age-appropriate activities
- All toys, crafts, games and materials supplied by us
- Full setup and teardown: we arrive, run the program and clean up
- Flexible hours to match your schedule (4-hour minimum per day)
- Fully bilingual English/French staff on request
Activity zones
Themed zones that spark imagination
Art station
Painting, colouring and crafts
Storytime corner
Read-aloud sessions for every age
Sensory play
Playdough, sensory bins and textures
Mini obstacle course
Tunnels, soft mats and balance games
Quiet corner
Puzzles and calm activities
Event types we serve
Perfect for every kind of celebration
Weddings
Parents enjoy the ceremony and reception, with no need to leave early.
Corporate events
Professionals focus on the conference while kids enjoy a structured program.
Family gatherings
Children play while adults reconnect and catch up.
Birthday parties
A supervised play area that gives parents a break.
Parties & galas
Holiday-themed activities while the grown-ups celebrate.
Cultural events
A safe, inclusive space that makes events accessible to families.
Safety & quality
Trained professionals, every time
- Current Vulnerable Sector Checks for every caregiver
- CPR/First Aid certification, including infant and child
- Child-related qualifications (RECE, Child and Youth Worker, Educational Assistant and more)
- Experience in group or event-based childcare
- Strict supervision, emergency and child-release procedures
- A designated on-site lead supervisor throughout your event
Why choose Little Larks?
- Licensed & insured: a licensed home child care agency with commercial liability insurance
- Stress-free: we handle setup, supervision, activities and teardown
- Flexible: a tailored experience that fits your event and budget
- Simple registration: parents complete a quick, secure online form before the event
Questions
Pop-up daycare FAQ
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 6 to 8 weeks ahead for larger events such as weddings and conferences, and 4 to 6 weeks for smaller gatherings.
What age ranges do you accommodate?
Children aged 0 to 12. Activities are tailored to each age group, with a separate quiet zone for infants and toddlers.
Do you provide snacks?
Yes, nut-free and allergy-aware snacks on request. Parents may also bring their own. Please tell us about allergies during registration.
What about children with special needs?
We're committed to inclusion. Let us know about any needs and we'll adapt the program or arrange extra staffing.
Is there a minimum number of children or hours?
There's no strict minimum number of children, but a minimum fee applies for small groups. The minimum booking is 4 hours.
Let's make your event unforgettable
Don't let childcare be a barrier to a perfect day. We'll handle the little ones.
Occasional care
Covering parents' sudden plans.
Life is unpredictable. A last-minute meeting, a sudden illness or a well-deserved night out: we connect you with a licensed, vetted caregiver in your area, without the guilt of defaulting to screen time.
When can you use it?
Built for the moments that matter
Date nights
A worry-free night out while your kids enjoy hands-on, play-based fun.
Weekend care
Errands, appointments or simply a break. We've got you covered.
Emergency backup
Regular care fell through? We're here to fill the gap, fast.
Last-minute work call
Our caregivers can step in on short notice.
Travel & special events
Weddings, family gatherings and trips are easier with help on hand.
More than supervision
Montessori-inspired activities, crafts, stories and outdoor games.
Pricing that makes sense
Simple, transparent rates
Standard rate
$26/hr
Ontario's minimum wage plus a processing fee.
Minimum booking
2 hrs
Covers the caregiver's time and travel.
Cancellation
24 hrs
Cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Secure payment
Debit or e-Transfer
Secure online payment.
Estimate your booking
$78 estimated total
Based on the standard rate of $26/hour. Your final quote is confirmed when we match you with a caregiver.
Join WaitlistHow it works
Booked in five easy steps
1
Request care
Share your date, time and location, ideally a week ahead.
2
We match you
We pair you with a licensed provider in your area.
3
Meet your caregiver
Get their profile and background check details first.
4
Enjoy your time
Focus on your plans while your kids are safe and engaged.
5
Share feedback
We follow up to make sure everything went perfectly.
Screened and trusted
- Police record check with Vulnerable Sector Screening, mandatory for all
- CPR and First Aid, including infant and child CPR
- Verifiable childcare experience
- Reference checks with past families
Short notice? We understand.
Emergencies happen. Submit your request online and we'll do our best to match you with a nearby caregiver quickly.
Join our network of licensed caregivers
Turn your home into a licensed daycare.
Real human connection, creativity and outdoor exploration are the heart of childhood. If you light up at the sound of laughter and believe in protecting kids offline and online, we'd love to hear from you. Already have children to enrol? You'll receive an even higher share of the daycare fee.
Get licensed with Little Larks
Four steps to opening your doors
2
Background check
CPR/First Aid, a Vulnerable Sector Check for adults 18+, and immunization records (Td/Tdap, MMR, Var) for you and every family member aged 18+.
3
Pre-inspection call
Set up your space using our Home Safety Guide, then our Home Visitor checks in virtually.
4
Home inspection
Pass the in-home visit, sign the agreement and start accepting children right away.
Why join Little Larks
You care for the kids. We support you.
Training support
Step-by-step help creating a warm, developmentally rich environment at home.
Child enrolment
We fill your spots with trusted families so you can focus on the kids.
Business taxes
Our tax experts guide you through home daycare deductions. Keep your receipts for the CRA.
Curriculum & resources
Play-based materials aligned with Ontario's How Does Learning Happen? framework.
Parents trust you to nurture their little ones offline. You'll be their trusted guide, and their hero.
Our caregivers say
Proud to be part of the flock
“Little Larks has empowered me to run my own home daycare while being part of a trusted network. I feel proud to offer families safe and meaningful care.”
OOlga D.
“I get the freedom to use Montessori-style techniques and still have full support when I need it.”
RRita M.
“I love how I can personalize my environment while staying aligned with Montessori principles. My space reflects me and serves the children deeply.”
SSana P.
“Seeing children grow socially, emotionally and intellectually through screen-free play is the most rewarding part of my job.”
JJaspreet B.
Provider guides
Read before you apply
Get your documents ready
Helpful links
Vulnerable Sector CheckApply with the Ottawa Police Service
First Aid / CPR trainingCity of Ottawa Paramedic Service courses
Immunization recordsFor you and family members 18+, from Ottawa Public Health
Little Larks First Aid discount
Register directly with First Aid Connect. Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C: $95 + HST. Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C: $80 + HST.
LITTLELARKS
Please note: Little Larks is not currently offering the CWELCC subsidy program, but we believe in quality childcare and real value for money.
Ready to bring real joy back to childhood?
Build meaningful memories for children. We can't wait to meet you.
Give back. Grow skills.
Join our flock.
Help us nurture the next generation of Ottawa's children, from behind the scenes and alongside our licensed providers. You don't need to be an ECE to make a big difference.
Why volunteer with us
Not everyone can run a home daycare. Everyone can help one thrive.
A meaningful role
You help licensed providers focus on what they do best: caring for kids.
Flexible hours
Evenings, weekends or one day a month. We work around your life.
A safe environment
You'll never be alone with children. It's the law, and we take it seriously.
Reference letters
Build your résumé for social work, education or non-profit careers.
Roles & responsibilities
The behind-the-scenes magic
Volunteer roles never include unsupervised care of children, as required by Ontario Regulation 137/15. Have a skill we haven't listed? Tell us about it.
Social media storyteller
Share our story online through community news, events and our mission. Photos of children are never posted.
Event support
Lend a hand at provider appreciation nights, family picnics and training sessions.
Administrative wingman
Filing, data entry, provider application tracking and other office tasks.
Provider support pal
Run errands, pick up supplies or help a busy provider with non-childcare tasks.
The legal stuff, made friendly
A few flock rules for everyone's safety
We follow Ontario's Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) and Ottawa Police Service requirements.
Vulnerable Sector Check
A Level 3 check from Ottawa Police, free for volunteers. We give you an authorization letter. If it's still processing, you can start under extra safety measures.
Confidentiality agreement
You'll see family and provider details, so you'll promise to keep them private.
Orientation & training
A short session on our policies, prohibited practices, emergency procedures and your role.
Two references
Professional or personal references who can speak to your reliability and character.
Volunteer agreement
A signed agreement outlining your role and expectations, protecting you and the families.
A note for parents
Parents of enrolled children are welcome to volunteer, but must complete all screening, since you'll interact with other children too.
Who we're looking for
You don't need a degree. You just need a good heart.
- Cares deeply about children and families
- Reliable, and shows up when they say they will
- Respects confidentiality and boundaries
- Comfortable following clear policies
- Wants to contribute to the Ottawa community
Especially encouraged to apply
- Students in ECE, social work, psychology or education
- Retirees with time and talent to share
- Parents whose children have grown up
- Anyone moving into the early childhood field
How to join
Six steps to joining the flock
2
Chat
A quick 15–20 minute phone or video call.
3
Screening
Apply for your Vulnerable Sector Check with our letter.
4
References
We call your two references.
5
Orientation
A 1-hour orientation and signed agreement.
6
Start
You're matched with a role and begin!
Questions
Volunteer FAQ
Will I be left alone with children?
No. Under Ontario Regulation 137/15, every volunteer is supervised by an employee or licensed home provider at all times.
Do I need to pay for my police check?
No. Ottawa Police provides Vulnerable Sector Checks free for volunteers when you indicate it's for volunteer purposes.
Can this count toward my student volunteer hours?
Yes! We're happy to complete any forms your school requires.
I can only volunteer once a month. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Every bit helps. Just tell us your availability when you apply.
Can I volunteer remotely?
Some administrative and social media roles may be possible remotely. Contact us to discuss.
How old do I have to be?
At least 18, the minimum age to apply for a Vulnerable Sector Check.
Ready to join the flock?
We welcome volunteers from every Ottawa neighbourhood: Kanata, Barrhaven, Orléans, Nepean, downtown and everywhere in between. Apply online in a few minutes.
You have the vision. We have the roadmap.
Open your own licensed child care centre in Ontario.
Little Larks Consulting helps entrepreneurs, educators and investors navigate licensing, operations and CWELCC funding, with expert guidance at every step, so you can open with confidence.
The challenge
Opening a licensed centre in Ontario is complex
Zoning approval, health and fire inspections, a qualified supervisor, policies for everything from anaphylaxis to sleep safety, the Child Care Licensing System (CCLS), the CWELCC funding agreement and the CCEYA.
One missing document or misunderstood regulation can delay your opening by months. You shouldn't have to figure it out alone.
Who it's for
- Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) ready to own a centre
- Entrepreneurs and investors entering licensed childcare
- Unlicensed providers who want to become fully licensed
- Community groups and non-profits expanding into regulated care
Our consulting services
We help you get licensed, established and operating
This is consulting, not franchising. You own your business, keep your profits and make your own decisions.
Licensing & site selection
Find a location that meets zoning, building and fire code.
Policies & operations
Every policy required by Ontario Regulation 137/15.
Centre design & layout
Spaces that pass inspection and delight children.
CWELCC & funding
Applications, budgets, price caps and audit preparation.
Why Little Larks Consulting
We have done this before. Successfully.
Little Larks is already a licensed home child care agency in Ottawa. We know how the Ministry of Education operates and what inspectors look for.
- Licensed operators, not generic business consultants
- Centre-based childcare is a core part of what we do
- No equity, royalties or ownership. Your centre is yours.
- Local experts in Ottawa zoning, priority neighbourhoods and municipal processes
What we guide you through
Typically 4 to 6 months from start to licence.
- Incorporating your business
- Securing health approvals
- Hiring a qualified supervisor (RECE in good standing)
- Completing your CCLS application
- Preparing for the pre-licensing inspection
- Applying for CWELCC funding with the City of Ottawa
- Setting parent fees under the price caps
Client success pathway
From first call to licence granted
1
Discovery call
We learn your vision, experience and timeline.
2
Proposal
A tailored proposal with fixed pricing.
3
Kickoff
We assess your situation and build a custom roadmap.
4
Guided execution
Weekly meetings. We review everything before you submit.
5
Licence granted
The Ministry issues your licence. You're ready to open.
6
Ongoing support
Optional help long after opening day.
Questions
Advisory FAQ
Is this a franchise?
No. We don't charge royalties, take equity or control your business. You own your centre; we are your paid advisor.
Do I have to be a Little Larks home provider?
No. Our consulting services are open to anyone in Ontario.
Can you guarantee I'll get my licence?
No reputable consultant can. The Ministry of Education makes the final decision. We guarantee a complete, compliant, professionally prepared application, and that you'll be ready for inspection. Only you, as the prospective licensee, can submit it.
Do you help with CWELCC funding?
Yes. It's one of our core offerings: municipal applications, budget planning, price cap compliance and audit preparation.
Where do you serve?
We're based in Ottawa and know its municipal processes well, and we consult on licensing requirements across Ontario.
Disclaimer: Little Larks Consulting provides advisory services only. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. All licensing decisions rest with the Ministry of Education. Clients are responsible for their own applications, compliance and operations.
Ready to open your licensed child care centre?
Don't navigate the licensing maze alone. Book your discovery call online in a minute.
Join the waitlist
Montessori-inspired, play-based care in licensed Ottawa homes.
Tell us about your child and the care you need. Joining is free. When a space opens with a licensed caregiver near you, our team will contact you about availability and next steps.
Book childcare for your event
Share a few details and we'll send you a quote and confirm availability. Book 6–8 weeks ahead for weddings and conferences, and 4–6 weeks for smaller gatherings.
Apply to become a licensed caregiver
Step one on the path to running your own licensed home daycare. Your licensing advisor will follow up to guide you through the next steps.
Join our flock as a volunteer
Tell us a little about yourself. We'll then set up a quick 15–20 minute phone or video chat.
Book a discovery call
Tell us about your vision, experience and timeline. We'll explain how we can help and send a tailored proposal with fixed pricing.
Parent form
Provider Portal
Your forms, guides and support in one place.
For licensed Little Larks home child care providers and agency staff. Verify your email once to open and submit your required forms. Everything you submit goes straight to the Little Larks office.
Verify your email
- Enter your emailUse the email address registered with Little Larks.
- Check your inboxWe send a 6-digit code that works for 10 minutes.
- Open your formsYou stay signed in on this device for 12 hours.
- Not receiving a code? Email care@littlelarks.ca or call 613-404-2843.
Home Visitor forms
Completed by the Home Visitor during inspections and monthly visits.
Before licensing
Home Inspection Form - Home Visitor
Final pre-licensing inspection: documents, fire safety, public health, indoor and outdoor spaces, pets, capacity and demonstrations.
Monthly
Monthly Monitoring Visit Form - Home Visitor
Monthly monitoring visit under O. Reg. 137/15, with any corrective actions.
Incident & illness reporting
Report serious occurrences within 24 hours, and record symptoms of illness.
Within 24 hours
Serious Occurrence Notification Form
Notify Little Larks of a serious occurrence as soon as the child is safe.
Same day
Child's Symptoms of Illness Record
Record a child's symptoms of illness and the actions taken.
Children with medical needs
Plans and authorizations completed with parents before care begins and reviewed regularly.
Before the first dose
Authorization for Drug / Medication Administration
Parent authorization to give a drug or medication during care hours.
Before care begins
Individualized Plan for a Child with Medical Needs
Individualized plan for a child with acute or chronic medical needs.
Before care begins
Individualized Plan and Emergency Procedures for a Child with an Anaphylactic Allergy
Individualized plan and emergency procedures for a child with an anaphylactic allergy.
Before care begins
Individualized Support Plan (ISP) for a Child with Special Needs
Individualized Support Plan for a child with special needs.
Guides & policies
Provider resources
Need help or have a question?
Your Home Visitor, Crystal Collier, is here to support you. Call 613-404-2843 or email care@littlelarks.ca.