Day Home Guide for Parents | Family's Choice Day Home Network

What is a Day Home?

A day home (also called a family day home) is licensed childcare provided in an educator's private residence. Day homes in Alberta can care for up to 6 children aged 0-12 years, creating a home-like environment with smaller group sizes compared to traditional daycare centers.

The Most Important Decision: Licensed vs Unlicensed

This is the most critical choice you'll make when selecting a day home. Understanding the difference can help keep your child safe and save you money.

Comparison of licensed versus unlicensed day homes in Alberta
Feature	Licensed Day Home	Unlicensed Day Home
Government Oversight	Regular inspections & monitoring	No monitoring
Criminal Background Checks	Required for all adults in home	Not verified
Subsidy & Affordability Funding	Eligible for $326.25/month rate	NOT eligible
Monitoring Visits	Every 2 months minimum	None
Professional Support	Agency backing & training	Independent
Complaint Process	Contact agency or Alberta Children's Services	Limited options

Important to Know:

Both licensed and unlicensed day homes can legally care for up to 6 children in Alberta. The key difference is oversight and accountability. Licensed day homes are monitored by licensed agencies that conduct regular safety inspections, background checks, and provide ongoing educator support.

Current Costs: Alberta's Affordability Funding (2025)

$326.25/Month for Full-Time Care

As of April 1, 2025 - licensed day homes only

Full-Time Care

$326.25/month

100+ hours per month
Equivalent to $15/day

Part-Time Care

$230/month

50-99 hours per month

Licensed Day Homes Only

This affordability funding is only available at licensed day homes affiliated with approved agencies. Unlicensed day homes cannot participate in this program.

Note: Some licensed providers may charge supplementary fees for meals, field trips, or extended hours beyond core childcare services. The Government of Alberta plans to reduce rates to $10/day by March 31, 2026.

Source: Alberta.ca - Accessing Child Care (Accurate as of 2025)

How to Choose a Quality Day Home

Visiting potential day homes and asking the right questions is essential. Here's what to look for to ensure your child's safety and development.

Safety Checklist

During your visit, you should see:

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

On each floor, properly functioning

Electrical Outlet Covers

All accessible outlets covered

Safety Gates & Secure Stairs

With handrails, no entrapment hazards

Hazardous Materials Secured

Cleaning products, medications out of reach

First Aid Kit Available

Easily accessible and stocked

Emergency Contacts Posted

Readily accessible phone numbers

Clean, Well-Maintained Spaces

Adequate lighting and ventilation

Age-Appropriate Toys

In good condition, safe for all ages

Secure Outdoor Play Area

Fenced, safe equipment, maintained

Proper Food Storage

Clean preparation and storage areas

Warning Signs to Watch For

Unwilling to let you visit during operating hours

Lack of open communication or defensive responses to questions

Disengaged or distant caregivers - not interacting warmly with children

Children left unattended or inadequately supervised

Chaotic or unsafe environment - dirty, poorly maintained facilities

No visible license or inspection reports (for licensed homes)

Cannot explain daily routine or educational approach clearly

Refuses to provide references or agency contact information

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, investigate further or choose another option.

Essential Questions to Ask Educators

Don't be shy about asking detailed questions. A quality educator will welcome your questions and provide thorough answers.

About Safety & Licensing

Are you licensed through an agency? Which one?
How often does the agency visit for monitoring?
Do all adults in the home have criminal record checks?
What are your emergency procedures?
Can I see your most recent inspection reports?

About Educator Qualifications

What is your Early Childhood Educator certification level?
Do you have current First Aid and CPR certification?
How long have you been providing childcare?
What is your approach to child development and learning?

About Daily Operations

What does a typical day look like for children?
How much outdoor time do children get daily?
Do you provide meals and snacks? Can I see your menu?
What is your philosophy on behavior guidance and discipline?
How do you communicate with parents? How often?
What are your hours, vacation days, and sick day policies?

About Your Child Specifically

How will you accommodate my child's dietary restrictions or allergies?
What is your approach if my child has challenging behaviors?
How do you handle separation anxiety?
Can I do a trial visit with my child before enrolling?

How to Report Concerns or Complaints

If you have concerns about a day home, Alberta has processes in place to protect children and ensure quality care.

For Licensed Day Homes:

1

First, speak with the day home educator

Many concerns can be resolved through direct communication
2

If unresolved, contact the licensed day home agency

The agency is responsible for investigating and addressing issues
3

If still unresolved, contact Childcare Connect

Phone: 1-844-644-5165

Hours: 8:15am - 4:30pm, Monday-Friday (closed 12-1pm and statutory holidays)

Your Rights:

All complaints are taken seriously and reviewed
Your information remains confidential
Anonymous reports are accepted

Source: Alberta.ca - Report an Incident or Concern

Everything You Need to Know About Day Homes in Alberta