Family, children and youth
Families arriving in Kitchener may have questions about childcare, school, recreation and programs for children and youth. There are local services that can help your family understand these systems and connect with your community.
On this page:
Childcare and early learning
Find information about:
- Learn how to register for school
- Find licensed childcare
- Learn about childcare subsidies
- Early learning programs
- Programs for parents and caregivers
Starting school
If your child is new to Canada or Ontario, support is available to help your family understand the Ontario school system and register for school.
Explore Regional and Local School Boards:
- Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB)
- Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB)
- CS Viamonde | Écoles publiques francophones en Ontario | Éducation en langue française de qualité en Ontario
- École de langue française | Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir
Youth supports
- Young newcomers can find programs for:
- Recreation and sports
- Leadership
- Employment
- Volunteering
- Social connection
- Settlement support
- Education and learning
Learn more about resource services for children, youth and families
- Family & Children's Services of Waterloo Region
- YMCA of Three Rivers - Childcare and EarlyOn as well as Youth WorkWell
- Big Brothers Big Sisters Waterloo Region
- OneRoof Youth Services
- House of Friendship Family Outreach Program
- Program registration in the City of Kitchener
- Leisure Access (fee assistance) in the City of Kitchener
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.