Licensed child care centres in Brantford are moving to comply with new provincial safety directives aimed at preventing vehicle-related risks to children, following a fatal incident outside a Richmond Hill facility earlier this month.
The Ministry of Education has instructed all centres across Ontario to restrict the use of parking spaces that could endanger children and staff, particularly those beside entrances, playgrounds or program rooms.
The order applies immediately, though accessible spaces remain exempt.
In Brantford, operators say the measures will require swift adjustments.
Several centres in the city’s downtown core and residential neighbourhoods border busy parking areas, where parents frequently drop off and pick up children.
Where centres do not control adjacent lots, the Ministry has advised operators to work directly with landlords.
Temporary solutions, such as pylons, signage or blocking spaces with staff vehicles, are recommended until permanent barriers can be installed.
Longer-term requirements could include bollards, planters or raised curbs.
“Children’s safety is of highest priority,” said Mary Musson, Commissioner of Community Services and Social Development.
“These new measures proposed by the Ministry of Education ensure that families can feel confident their child care centres are doing everything possible to protect their loved ones.”
The directives come as Brantford continues to expand its network of licensed child care spaces through both municipal and non-profit providers.
Officials say the safety measures will be enforced without delay, with parents urged to contact their child care operator directly for details.
