Finding Childcare in Alberta

Finding Quality Child Care

Choosing quality child care for your family is an important decision. You want to find a safe, healthy environment that supports the social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional development of your children.

There are many types of child care available:

Daycare programs serve infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.

Family day homes offer care in a private residence. There are typically six or fewer children, including the caregiver’s children, with one caregiver.

Group family child care programs offer care in a private residence. There are typically between seven and 10 children with two caregivers.

Out-of-school-care programs operate before and after school, during lunch hours, and sometimes when school is closed.

Pre-school program that offers child care for four or fewer hours per day for pre-school aged children.

Your First Weeks in Canada | Developing Your Action Plan

Arriving with an action plan for your first weeks in Canada can save you time and money. The quicker you settle into your new environment the faster you’ll feel at home! In this webinar, Your First Weeks in Canada, we discuss the important things to do to manage your first weeks efficiently.

REGISTER FOR THE WEBINAR

Finding the best arrangement for your family takes time and planning, but it is worth the effort. You know your child best. Think about where they will be most comfortable. List your needs. For example, if your child needs quiet time, a large, busy centre may not be the best choice.

Here are things to consider to help you make a child-care decision: 

Your child’s age

The types of activities your child enjoys

The number and ages of children your child enjoys being with

Any food allergies or food preferences to accommodate.

Also, each program will have different child care approaches and services such as snacks or meals. Other things to consider are your work hours, location, and cost. Do you require assistance with your childcare fees for your preschool children? 

Locate a child care facility or family day home agency

The next step is to find a child care program. A good way to find a program is to ask friends and neighbours for references. You can also contact your local child and family services office for a list of child care programs or use our online tool to find a program.

Visit a child care program

You must visit each program that you are considering. This allows you to ask questions and observe the care they offer. During your visit, consider these questions:

Are the facility and equipment clean and in good condition?

Is space arranged for children to freely choose activities?

Are toys and equipment in reach of all children?

Do toys and equipment suit the ages and sizes of all children?

Are there enough toys for the number of children?

Is there a program listing daily activities?

Can children choose from a variety of activities?

Do activities suit the ages of the children?

Do children appear relaxed and involved in activities?

Is there room for outdoor play?

Nutrition

Does food for all children meet the standards in Canada’s Food Guide or Alberta’s Nutritional Food Guidelines?

Do caregivers sit with children during meals?

Health and Safety

Do staff and children wash their hands before and after diapering or toileting?

Are medications stored in a locked container, out of reach of children?

Is all indoor and outdoor equipment clean and safe?

Do staff have training in child care first aid?

Child care staff and providers

How many staff per child are present?

What is the training of staff?

Are staff engaged and involved with children?

Do staff calmly reassure children who are upset?

WRITTEN BY

Jae-Eun Park

© Prepare for Canada 2025