Finding reliable childcare can be one of the biggest challenges for parents, especially when unexpected situations arise or school breaks create gaps in regular care arrangements. Fortunately, there are several resources available to help U of T families access flexible, short-term, and emergency childcare options throughout the year. The Family Care Office has compiled resources you can access when in need of childcare support. Learn more about Back-Up Child Care & Babysitting.
Kids & Company Back-Up Child Care
U of T students, staff, and faculty can access back-up child care through Kids & Company when regular care arrangements fall through. The program provides last-minute child care for children up to 12 years old, with costs of $22 per day for children six and under, and $80 per day for children over six.
School-age children can be accommodated during school closures, including PA Days, March Break, winter holidays, and other scheduled school breaks. Spaces can be reserved through the online Back-Up Day Booking form or by calling 1-866-MY-KIDCO. Availability is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and families may be offered a nearby Kids & Company location if their preferred centre is full.
Emergency Child Care Passes
The Family Care Office maintains a limited number of free emergency back-up child care passes for currently enrolled U of T students. These passes can be used at Kids & Company centres when unexpected child care needs arise. Students experiencing an urgent child care challenge can contact the Family Care Office at 416-978-0951 during business hours to inquire about availability.
Nannies on Call
For families who prefer in-home care, Nannies on Call provides access to experienced, pre-screened nannies for occasional babysitting and short-term child care needs. Nannies have at least two years of child care-specific experience, first aid training, a clear criminal record check, and have been thoroughly screened and interviewed by the agency.
Hourly rates range from $22 to $25 per hour. As of June 1, 2026, U of T students and employees can access Nannies on Call without paying the subscription fee, making it an even more affordable option for occasional childcare support.
U of T Babysitter Listing
The Family Care Office also maintains an online babysitter bulletin board that helps connect families with babysitters in Toronto and the Peel Region. The listing includes U of T students and the partners/spouses of students who offer childcare services and bring a variety of experience and training working with children.
Current U of T students, faculty, and staff can access the babysitter listing using their U of T credentials.
Kids & Company School-Age Programming
Kids & Company offers School-Age Programming designed specifically for children during school breaks, such as PA Days, March Break, summer vacation, and other closures Led by trusted educators, these programs combine fun, engaging activities with learning opportunities tailored to each child’s developmental needs, helping families bridge gaps in care while school is out.
Whether you need emergency care, occasional babysitting, or support during school holidays, these resources can help make balancing caregiving, work, and studies a little easier.