The Ontario government is proposing new safety rules for child-care facilities following a tragic crash at a Richmond Hill daycare that claimed the life of a toddler and left several others injured.
On Wednesday, an SUV struck the First Roots Early Education Academy, killing an 18-month-old boy and injuring six other children, two of whom remain in critical condition.
Three staff members were also hurt in the collision, and police have laid dangerous driving charges against the male driver.
In response, Education Minister Paul Calandra announced proposed measures requiring child-care operators and municipalities to eliminate parking spaces immediately adjacent to daycare entryways, playgrounds, windows, and classroom walls. Accessible parking and home-based child-care centres would be exempt from the new rules.
Calandra said his ministry will work with inspectors, service managers, and providers to assess other safety vulnerabilities and implement changes through upcoming legislation.
The move aims to strengthen protections for children and restore parents’ confidence in Ontario’s licensed daycare system.