Early Learning and Child Care – Fall 2025 Community Update

The District of Muskoka helps ensure families have access to and inclusion in high-quality child care and early learning programs. From birth to age 12, we support children and families through licensed care, subsidies, and programs across the community. We also work with Early Learning Professionals to grow and strengthen the workforce.  

In short, our role is to bring partners together and coordinate services, so families have the support they need. With so many exciting programs and initiatives underway, here’s a one-stop update on what’s new this fall. 

Expanding Licensed Child Care – Muskoka’s Growth Plan  

Muskoka is making a lot of progress under the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) plan. Since 2023, 242 new licensed child care spaces have been created across the District, which is already 61% of our growth target. These new spaces include: 

• 36 school-based spaces
• 116 centre-based spaces 
• 90 licensed home child care spaces 

By the end of 2026, the goal is to reach 399 new spaces in total. That is an 82 percent increase in licensed child care for children under 5 compared to 2022. We still have 157 spaces to go over the next 18 months. Here’s what we’re working on next: 

• The Fairvern Early Learning and Child Care Centre has been designed and is now under review for construction costs. If the costing is approved, the project will add 64 new spaces, with a portion reserved for Fairvern families and the rest available to the wider community. 
• A new licensed child care centre in Huntsville is planned to add 39 more spaces. The procurement process is currently underway, which means the details are still being finalized. Once complete, this project will help meet demand for more licensed child care in the Huntsville area. 
• Additional licensed home child care spaces through the Muskoka Home Child Care Agency will provide more flexible options for families, especially in rural parts of the District. 

Together, these projects bring us closer to our goal of making child care more accessible for Muskoka families. 

New Licensed Child Care in MacTier 

This September marked the start of licensed before and after school care at MacTier Public School, a first for the community! We’re also looking ahead at opportunities to develop a licensed program for children under 5 at the school in the coming years. 

Funding Updates 

• Start-Up Grants – To help open more child care spaces, the District has $741,000 in Start-Up Grants available through December 31, 2026. These grants cover practical costs like minor repairs, furniture, learning materials, and technology - the things that make it easier for operators to open their doors and for children to walk into safe, welcoming, well-equipped spaces.  
• ELCC Infrastructure Funding – Muskoka has also received, $1.8 million in federal Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) infrastructure funding to help create more non-profit, centre-based spaces. If the costing for the Fairvern Early Learning and Child Care Centre is approved, a portion of this funding will support its development, ensuring more options for families in Muskoka.  

These investments mean more licensed child care spaces in the years ahead, giving parents more choice and reducing waitlists.  

Learning and Events This Fall 

• Early Years Educators Conference – On October 17 and 18 at Bayview Wildwood Resort, early years educators across Muskoka will gather for 5th annual Pedagogy of Care Conference. This event is all about learning, sharing, and networking. We’re supporting Early Learning Professionals by creating a space where they can explore new ideas, connect with colleagues, and strengthen the important work they do with children every day.  
• National Child Day – November 20. National Child Day celebrates children’s rights and the important role communities play in helping every child reach their full potential. It’s a reminder that children deserve to grow up safe, supported, and heard. Here in Muskoka, we marked the day a little early with a special Play Day on October 4 at Morrison Meadows. Families enjoyed games, trail walks, farm animals, a BBQ, and more. Thank you to all the families who joined us in celebrating children and their voices in our community.  
• ECE Appreciation Day – October 21. ECEs are the heart of our child care system. This day is a chance to recognize their skill, dedication, and passion. ECEs do far more than provide care, they nurture early learning, foster healthy development, and help build the foundation for lifelong success. Learn more about the role of ECEs, and pathways to becoming an ECE in Muskoka: www.muskoka.on.ca/ece.   

EarlyON Child and Family Centres 

The District also operates EarlyON Child and Family Centres across Muskoka. These centres give parents, caregivers, and young children a free and welcoming place to learn, play, and connect. Programs include play-based activities, parent and caregiver resources, and opportunities to meet other families in the community. 

Find your nearest location and program schedule at www.muskoka.on.ca/earlyon and follow us on Facebook for the latest updates. 

Want to stay in the loop about programs, events, and resources for children and families? Subscribe to our EarlyON monthly newsletter at the following link: Newsletter Subscription Form 

Stay Connected 

Together, these updates reflect our commitment to making child care and early learning more accessible, affordable, and supportive for Muskoka families. This work also delivers on Council’s Strategic Plan by strengthening community health and wellbeing, planning for the future, and building partnerships that make Muskoka stronger. 

If you have any questions about the information provided in this update, please contact our Children’s Services team by phone at: 705-645-2100 ext.4140 or by email at: childrensprograms@muskoka.on.ca.