I dunno daycare, I think they can deny you legally if they choose to. I don't think you can force them to rent to you,.and it's not discrimination, because the denial isn't based on race, religion, etc. It's like pets, they have the right to say "no pets allowed" and I imagine they could site undue wear and tear on the property.
This really stinks for you daycare. I truly hope it works out.
Have you thought about opening a center, even a small one?