Frequently Asked Questions

Of course. We allow parents to get a feel for our learning environment and answers to commonly asked questions. Please call in advance to set- up a  tour around our  facility

At Thorncliffe Park Day Care Centre  each room  has qualified staff that have a degree or diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and are registered with the College of ECE. Our assistants have taken  Early Childhood Assistant courses and all staff have their First Aid, Food Handler Course and WHMS  training. The staff take part in several workshops and training  yearly to keep up to date on changes in the field of Early Childhood Education.

 At Thorncliffe Park Daycare, we currently offer full-time care only, operating five days a week. Our program is designed to provide a comprehensive and consistent learning experience for the children in our care, and as such, attendance is requested every day for those enrolled.  For our school-age location, children attending Thorncliffe Park School are required to attend both morning and afternoons. In cases where a child is enrolled in after-school care but attends another school, they are required to attend in the afternoons. 

 Families that need help with the cost of licensed child care for their children (up to 12 years old) can apply for assistant.  We accept subsidy clients.   Contact the Children’s Services in the area you live for more information to see if you qualify. Click link below.

 https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/employment-social-support/child-family-support/child-care-support/  

Thorncliffe Park Day Care Centre  provides a morning and afternoon snack daily with a milk or water beverage for the children.  We also offer additional snacks  with daily fruits. Lunch is served daily for children enrolled in our daycare program using a 4 week rotational menu.    

For school age children during all non instructional days (PA, March break, summer break etc.) The childcare  also provides  a healthy lunch along with snacks.  Our school age program offers  a wholesome lunch program from September to July for children who attend Thorncliffe Park Public School .  Spots are limited and interested  parents will require registration.  

 Specifically, we do not release children to individuals under the age of 16 years old. This policy is in place to prioritize the safety and well-being of every child entrusted to our childcare program. Authorized  persons on your child's pickup  or siblings  must be  16 years of age or older. Persons picking up your child will also require  ID to verify information on the pick up authorization form.

Can I bring food for my child? 

 At our center, health and safety of our children are paramount.  We understand that there may be specific dietary preferences or requirements for your child, especially for infants.  We do allow parents to bring outside food for their infants. However, in line with our commitment to maintaining a safe environment, we kindly request that any outside food brought for infants is labeled with your child's name and a detailed list of its contents.  Furthermore, to ensure the safety of all children, we have a strict nut-free policy. This means that any food items brought from home should be free from nuts or nut-based products. 

What type of food options does the center offer? 

We strive to have an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.     Halal and vegetarian  dishes are just some of the options we provide.  Processed foods are avoided, and  both of our locations strive to be nut free zones.  Children with dietary needs including allergies  will be accommodated.  When there are severe food restrictions, the Supervisor will meet with the family to discuss specific needs and adapt the menu accordingly.   To ensure the use of fresh, local ingredients where possible, our menus change seasonally for the fall/winter and spring/summer months. 

Does  the centre supply  diapers and wipes? 

 We understand that each child has unique needs, and we encourage parents to provide an ample supply of diapers and wipes for their child during their time at the center.

However, we also want to assure you that in cases where a child arrives without an adequate supply of diapers or wipes, we do have a limited stock available at the center. 

Does my child have to remain at home when experiencing any gastroenteritis (ie: diarrhea, vomiting or nausea)?

 Our commitment  is to maintain a healthy and safe environment for all children in our care . In line with the guidelines set by Toronto Public Health,  

a child exhibiting any symptoms, including vomiting, must be symptom-free for a minimum of 48 hours before returning to the center.

This precautionary measure is implemented to prevent the spread of illness and to ensure the well-being of all children, staff, and families associated with our center. 

If my child gets sick, how long do I have to pick him/her up? 

 We understand that illness can arise unexpectedly, and we want to ensure the well-being of all the children in our care.  

In cases of illness, our protocol is to contact parents immediately if their child is not feeling well. We kindly request that you arrange for your child to be picked up within 1 hour of receiving our notification. This prompt response helps us maintain a healthy environment for all children and staff at our  center.

In the event that you are unable to pick up your child within the one-hour time frame, we will contact the emergency contact person listed on your child's records. 

 My child has special educational needs.  Can he/she attend the daycare?

At TPDCC we offer a diverse open door where all children are welcome.  Our Centre director and supervisors  will work with parents to ensure we will be able to meet all your child’s special needs. 

What should I bring for my child's first day? 

 Upon enrollment, you will have the opportunity to meet with our supervisor, who will provide you with essential information about the daily operations and answer any questions you may have. As part of this discussion, we will also provide you with a helpful ideas of  what you should bring based on the specific program your child is enrolled in.  This informative session  covers all the necessary details, including items such as personal belongings, clothing, and any specific requirements for your child's program. It aims to make the first day a seamless and enjoyable experience for your child. 

 How are parents informed about their child’s day? 

 Infants, toddlers and preschool children are emailed an electronic daily report on a media platform called Lillio .  The report shows diaper changes, servings of snacks and meals, milk/formula consumed, duration of rest and activities the child was engaged with.  Additionally, we will communicate with parents at pick-up time. Our schoolage program staff can connect with parents at pick-up time as well as email.   

How many teachers are in the classroom? 

On average there will be 2 educators, with the exception of the infant room having 3.5 staff. 

Infant room has 10 children; therefore 3.5 staff are needed to cover the ratio of 3:1

Toddler room has 10 children; their ratio is 5:1

Preschool room has 16 children; their ratio is 8:1

Does my child have to go outside every day? 

 In alignment with the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, our protocol mandates that children participate in outdoor play for one hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon.  We understand that there may be specific circumstances or health considerations that require exceptions, and we are happy to accommodate those with proper documentation.  In the case of inclement weather conditions, such as extreme cold or heavy rain, we prioritize the safety and comfort of the children. In these cases, outdoor activities will be replaced with indoor alternatives. Children will either remain inside their classrooms or have the opportunity to use the gym if it is available, ensuring that they still have an engaging and enjoyable experience.