During pregnancy
Start a shortlist early
In many Canadian cities, popular infant rooms have the longest waits — often months, and sometimes more than a year. It is completely normal to join waitlists before your baby arrives. Make a shortlist of centres near home or work, and get your name down at your top few.
0–6 months
Get on lists and keep notes
Add yourself to several waitlists rather than betting on one. Track where you applied, any deposit you paid, and your position if they share it. Ask each centre how their list works — some go by date applied, others prioritize siblings or full-time spots.
6–12 months
Confirm your return-to-work date
Once you know roughly when you'll return, tell the centres — offers often come 2–3 months before a spot opens, and they need to know your start date. This is also the time to tour your top options and compare them side by side.
Return-to-work transition
Line up a start — and a backup
Aim to have care confirmed a few weeks before you go back, with a settling-in period built in. Keep a backup option warm in case timing slips: a second centre, a home daycare, or family support for the first few weeks.
A few things worth knowing
- Waitlist length varies widely by city, neighbourhood, and age group — infant care is usually the tightest.
- Being on a list is not a commitment. It buys you options; you can decline an offer.
- Ask whether a deposit is refundable, and whether staying on the list requires periodic confirmation.
- Siblings and full-time spots are often prioritized — ask each centre how they order their list.