How to Save Money When Starting Your Child at Little Duck Family Child Care

Enrolling your child in daycare is a big step, and while quality childcare is invaluable, the costs can add up quickly. At Little Duck Family Child Care, we understand that affordability is a major concern for families, so we want to help parents make the most of their childcare budget. We recently relocated our daycare to provide a higher quality space and can now reflect our prices based on the quality of care we provide in our home. Here are some smart ways to save money while ensuring your child gets excellent care.

1. Ask About Part-Time or Flexible Scheduling

If you don’t need full-time care, Little Duck Family Child Care may offer part-time or flexible scheduling options that can significantly reduce costs. Whether you need care for a few days a week or half-day sessions, customizing your schedule can help you save.

2. Check for Sibling Discounts

If you have more than one child in need of care, be sure to ask about sibling discounts. Many family daycare providers, do offer discounts but here we do not as we take advantage of so many government benefits. 

3. Take Advantage of Government Subsidies

Depending on your income and location, you may qualify for childcare subsidies. Little Duck Family Child Care can help guide you through the process of applying for local assistance programs to lower your out-of-pocket costs. Check with your regional childcare subsidy office to see if you qualify.

4. Bring Your Own Supplies

Some daycare providers charge extra for things like diapers, wipes, formula, or snacks. At Little Duck Family Child Care we ensure you provide  these items yourself to save money. Buying essentials in bulk can make a big difference over time.

5. Plan Your Drop-Off and Pick-Up Times

Some childcare centers charge late pick-up fees, which can add up if your schedule is unpredictable. At Little Duck Family Child Care, we encourage families to plan their drop-off and pick-up times carefully to avoid unnecessary charges. We do charge fees after 5 pm as I am also a parent and want to spend my time with my family. 

6. Use Tax Benefits and Employer Programs

Make sure you take advantage of tax deductions and employer-sponsored programs that can help with daycare costs:

• Child Care Expense Deduction (Canada): If you’re eligible, you can claim a portion of your daycare expenses on your taxes.

• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (U.S.): Families in the U.S. can get tax credits for daycare costs.

• Employer Childcare Benefits: Some workplaces offer childcare subsidies or Dependent Care FSAs, which allow you to set aside pre-tax money for daycare.

7. Join Parent Networks for Referrals and Discounts

Many family childcare providers, including Little Duck Family Child Care, rely on word-of-mouth referrals. Ask about referral discounts—some providers offer reduced rates for families who refer new clients. Connecting with other parents in your area can also help you find cost-saving tips or shared childcare arrangements.

8. Choose Home-Based Care for Affordability and Quality

Home-based daycare, like Little Duck Family Child Care, often provides a warm, personalized experience at a more affordable rate than large centers. Smaller group sizes mean more individual attention for your child, and the lower overhead costs of home-based care are often reflected in the pricing. We still enjoy Montessori based activities and ensure quality care and nurturing as your little one grows, family child care is just as beneficial as a large centre.

Final Thoughts

Finding quality childcare that fits your budget is possible with the right strategies. At Little Duck Family Child Care, we’re committed to providing families with a nurturing, affordable, and flexible childcare experience. If you’re looking for ways to save, don’t hesitate to ask about available discounts, subsidy options, or ways to tailor care to your needs.