Why September Is the Most Important Time to Enroll Your Child in Daycare
A Season of New Beginnings
September isn’t just the start of a school year—it’s the start of something deeply foundational for young children, too. It’s the season when new friendships form, new routines begin, and the rhythm of learning resets.
For families considering daycare, September is the most strategic, socially impactful, and developmentally supportive time to enrol. And in a country like Canada—where high-quality childcare spaces are in limited supply—securing a spot for the fall is not just a smart move; it’s often essential.
Here’s why enrolling in September gives your child the best possible start—and why now is the time to act.
1.
Friendships Begin in September
Just as school-aged children return to class and meet their new peers, daycare classrooms also welcome a fresh cohort of young learners each September. This creates a unique and powerful social opportunity.
At Tiny Scholars, September is when:
Children begin together and move through the year as a group
Peer bonds are formed through daily routines, shared play, and milestone moments
Group cohesion builds trust, emotional safety, and a sense of belonging
“When children begin together, they belong together. It’s the foundation of lifelong social learning.”
Starting in September means your child is right there at the beginning—meeting their first friends, forming relationships with educators, and learning alongside peers who are also new to the experience.
2. It’s the Ideal Entry Point
Young children thrive on rhythm, consistency, and predictable transitions. The September term aligns with the natural learning calendar and offers a full year to:
Build relationships with consistent caregivers
Settle into routines that support emotional regulation
Engage deeply in the play-based learning cycle
Grow at their own pace, without interruption or re-adjustment mid-year
Children who start in September benefit from a stable, intentional flow of learning and play. They are not adjusting to an already-formed group midstream—they are building the classroom culture from day one.
3. Licensed Childcare Spaces in Canada Are Limited
According to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, most major cities in Canada are facing a shortage of affordable, high-quality daycare spaces. Waitlists are long. Spaces for infants and toddlers are especially scarce. And licensed centres often fill for the entire year within months.
At Tiny Scholars, September intake is our primary window for new enrolment. Families who wait until later in the year often find there are no available spots—or that the waitlist has extended well into the next term.
“Planning for September is not just planning ahead. In today’s market, it’s ensuring your child has a spot at all.”
4. Mid-Year Enrolment Can Be More Challenging Emotionally
Children are incredibly adaptable—but they also benefit from starting when everyone else is starting. Mid-year enrolment can be emotionally harder for both the child and the family:
Peer groups may already be well-formed
Classroom routines are established
Educators have already built bonds with other children
By contrast, a September start allows your child to grow with the group—not try to catch up emotionally or socially later on.
Tiny Scholars supports transitions at every stage of the year, but whenever possible, September offers the gentlest and most natural point of entry.
5. Secure Peace of Mind Now—Avoid the Stress Later
There’s nothing more unsettling than realising your child is ready for daycare—but there’s no space left. Many families apply too late and find themselves scrambling for options that don’t align with their values or needs.
By securing a spot for September:
You gain time to prepare your child emotionally and practically
You have access to orientation visits and educator meetings
You begin the year with calm confidence—not last-minute stress
At Tiny Scholars, fall placements are now open, and interest is already high. Families are encouraged to book a tour or submit an application early to avoid disappointment.
6.September at Tiny Scholars: A Story Begins
A full year at Tiny Scholars means:
Being immersed in a nature-inspired environment from the beginning
Participating in seasonal activities tied to cognitive and emotional development
Building continuity of care through our Heart-to-Heart program
Watching your child’s confidence grow month by month
When your child begins in September, they are not just enrolling in a daycare—they are becoming part of a learning community that will shape how they relate to the world, to others, and to themselves.
Don’t Miss the Most Important Enrolment Window of the Year
🍂 If you’re considering childcare this year, the time to plan is now. Whether your child is an infant just beginning to explore or a toddler ready for social interaction and play-based learning, September offers the best combination of opportunity, stability, and growth.
📞 Contact Tiny Scholars today to ask about available September spots
📅 Book a Tour and experience our space, educators, and program firsthand