Can Summer Camp Be Considered Child Care in Ontario?

Summer is just around the corner, and many parents in Ontario are wondering about their child care options. One question that often comes up is whether summer camps can be considered child care. Let's dive into the details and clarify this topic.

The Short Answer: It Depends

The answer to whether summer camp can be considered child care in Ontario is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, including the age of the children, the nature of the camp, and its primary purpose.

Day Camps for Children 4 and Older

For children who are 4 years old or older, day camps can operate without a child care license in Ontario, provided they meet certain criteria[1]:

- The camp operates for up to 13 weeks in a calendar year

- It does not operate on school days

- It is not held in a person's home

- It only cares for children who are 4 years or older (or will turn 4 by the end of the calendar year if the program starts on or after September 1)

These camps are considered "authorized recreational and skill-building programs" under Ontario law[6].

Camps for Children Under 4

The rules are different for younger children. Day camps that want to offer programs for children under 4 years of age need a child care license, or they must follow the rules for unlicensed child care[13]. This requirement came into effect in August 2015 as part of Ontario's push to tighten rules surrounding unlicensed child care facilities[2].

Primary Purpose Matters

When it comes to tax deductions and credits, the primary purpose of the camp is crucial. If the main goal of the camp is to provide child care so that parents can work or attend school, it may be considered an eligible child care expense[14][15]. However, if the primary focus is on specific skills or activities (like a sports camp), it might not qualify.

Impact on Parents

These regulations have had a significant impact on many Ontario families. Some parents have found their summer child care options limited, especially for children under 4[8]. It's important for parents to check with camp providers about their licensing status and age restrictions when planning summer activities.

The Bottom Line

While summer camps can be considered child care in Ontario under certain circumstances, it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. The age of the child, the nature of the camp, and its primary purpose all play a role in determining whether it falls under child care regulations.

As a parent, it's crucial to do your research and understand the specific details of any camp or program you're considering for your child. This will help ensure you're making informed decisions about your child's summer activities and care arrangements.

Remember, the goal of these regulations is to ensure the safety and well-being of children. While they may sometimes seem restrictive, they're designed with your child's best interests in mind.

Citations:

[1] https://www.ontario.ca/page/day-camps-what-parents-and-providers-need-know

[2] https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-camp-rules-1.3406936

[3] https://www.ontario.ca/page/child-care-rules-ontario

[4] https://www.aeceo.ca/regulated_child_care

[5] https://ontariobusinessgrants.com/start-a-business/how-to-start-a-summer-camp-in-ontario/

[6] https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/14c11

[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/PersonalFinanceCanada/comments/11drzqx/can_kids_summer_camps_be_claimed_on_tax_return/

[8] https://childcarecanada.org/documents/child-care-news/16/02/new-rules-threaten-keep-kids-under-4-out-ontario-summer-camps

[9] https://www.prontario.org/policy/childcare

[10] https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/family/deducting-summer-camps-and-daycare-with-the-child-and-dependent-care-credit/L8aAzvmjB

[11] https://www.wellington.ca/media/file/authorized-recreation-and-camp-programmes

[12] https://community.ufile.ca/topic/20689-child-care-expenses-summer-camps/

[13] https://sbs-spe.feddevontario.canada.ca/en/how-start-daycare-ontario

[14] https://turbotax.intuit.ca/tips/summer-childcare-whats-tax-deductible-4128

[15] https://www.hwdsb.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Child-Care-What-Parents-Need-to-Know.pdf

[16] https://childcarecanada.org/sites/default/files/ECEC-Canada-2019-Ontario.pdf

[17] https://www.cfcollaborative.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Child-Care-Early-Years-Act-2014.pdf

[18] https://www.uoguelph.ca/childcare/sites/uoguelph.ca.childcare/files/public/documents/Child%20Care%20and%20Early%20Years%20Act%202014.pdf

[19] https://www.uoguelph.ca/childcare/child-care-and-early-years-act