Many parents are struggling to find child care this week after a Hamilton daycare unexpectedly closed its doors.
My Little Sand Castle on Hamilton’s West Mountain claims it was locked out by its landlords, who say the daycare hasn’t paid rent.
Nikita Bathla mentioned that she had just landed back from vacation when she found out her daughter’s daycare had shut down.
She explained that she’s already taken several days off work to care for her 19-month-old.
“We don’t have any childcare support, there are no spots available, no nannies available, like especially at such short notice. I’m also working, my husband is also working and like we both have high-demanding jobs,” Bathla said.
Parents received the closure notice on Sunday, less than 12 hours before drop-off time.
On Wednesday at the daycare, there’s a closure notice on the door stating they haven’t paid rent and that the door is locked.
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The notice didn’t specify how much money is owed in rent; it simply stated that the doors will remain locked until payment is made.
“The landlord has demanded a significant payment that is disputed and not specifically contemplated under the terms of the lease agreement. In response, My Little Sand Castle has initiated legal proceedings,” the daycare wrote in a message to parents on Sunday.
No matter what caused this situation, parents feel caught in the middle of it all with their kids affected.
“I’m a bit disappointed with how everything was handled. It seems clear both parties-the daycare and building owner-knew for some time that this could happen,” said Brendan Mc Hale, another concerned parent.
Emily Redgate is also feeling the impact of this sudden closure. She’s now taking care of her almost three-year-old daughter, Iris, at home while on maternity leave with her new baby.
“She loves going to daycare, she loves the routine, she loves her friends. I think it would take more away from her then she’s just stuck at home with me and the baby,” she says.
The daycare has promised to refund parents for any unused childcare services.
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