Childcare

Most parents use childcare at some point. If you need regular childcare—so you can go back to work, for example—you’ll probably look for a daycare facility. You may also want someone to take care of your baby on an occasional basis so you can take some time for yourself.

Finding educational daycare for your child

Finding daycare is a big concern for many parents. To find a spot for your child at an educational daycare facility, you need to use the Childcare Services Registration Portal. This new platform allows you to register your child at the educational daycare service of your choice once your baby is born :

• Centre de petite enfance (early childcare centre)
• Subsidized childcare
• Unsubsidized childcare
• Family daycare

To use the portal, you must create an account at Quebec.ca/PortailServicesDeGarde.

See the “Childcare centres” section at Quebec.ca/parent for more information.

Finding a babysitter

If you want to go out or take some time for yourself, you’ll need to leave your baby in someone else’s care. Choose someone you know or who has been recommended by other parents.

If possible, pick someone who has experience and has taken a babysitting or first aid course. Meet with the babysitter before you leave them alone with your child so you can get to know them and build trust.

Watch how your baby reacts to the sitter. Before you go out, be sure to leave a phone number where you can be reached and the approximate time you’ll be home. If you can’t be reached at all times, leave an emergency contact (e.g., the other parent, a friend or family member).

Give the babysitter instructions on feeding times and meal times and when to put baby down to sleep. You can also tell them if your child has any special needs or preferences (tips on getting them to sleep, what they like to do, etc.).