What types of kindergartens are there in Canada (private, public, home-based)?

Choosing a daycare is one of the most important decisions parents make in Calgary. The preschool system here is diverse, and each type of facility has its own characteristics, advantages, and safety and licensing requirements. Below is a detailed overview of the main types of daycares in Calgary: public, private, and home-based.

1. Public (provincial) preschools

Public or provincially licensed preschools are institutions that operate under the supervision of the Alberta government and adhere to uniform standards of quality, safety, development, and nutrition. Key features:

  • Accept children from 6 months to 6 years of age (sometimes up to 12 years of age for extended day groups).
  • Operate full or part-time with a set schedule.
  • Educators are educated, screened for safety, and certified in first aid and CPR.
  • The educational program is aimed at the comprehensive development of the child: language, motor skills, creativity, social skills.
  • Regular inspections by government agencies, transparency of work.
  • State subsidies for low-income families. How to find one:
  • Use the official [Child Care Lookup Tool](http://www.humanservices.alberta. ca/oldfusion/ChildCareLookup.cfm?s=search&sfid=&sinspd=&sinspc=&show=&ProgramName=&City=CALGARY&PostalCode=&TypeDayCares=true&AgeInfants=true&buttonSubmit=3921) to find licensed facilities in your area.

2. Private preschools

Private preschools are facilities that may operate independently or as part of a franchise or under the auspices of religious or cultural organizations. Features:

  • May offer unique programs: bilingual education, religious instruction, emphasis on the arts or sports.
  • Often have smaller groups and a more individualized approach.
  • Costs are usually higher than public kindergartens.
  • All officially operating private kindergartens are also su.
  • Some private institutions operate part-time or only for certain age groups. Examples:
  • Columbia Childcare Centre, Panda Child Development Centre, Inglewood Child Development Centre, Dominican Sisters' Daycare Centre, Cedarbrae Childcare Centre, Little World's Learning Centre (bilingual English-Spanish program).

3. Home-based childcare

Home-based daycare (family day homes, home-based childcare) are small groups (up to 6 children) organized in private homes under the supervision of one or more caregivers. Classification:

  • Provincially licensed day homes: operate under an agency that regularly inspects conditions, safety, and caregiver qualifications.
  • Municipally licensed home-based child care: since 2023, Calgary has had a new municipal licensing system for private home daycare centers that are not subject to provincial regulation. Licensing requirements:
  • First aid and CPR certification.
  • Police check with consideration of work with children for all adults in the home.
  • Compliance with safety, hygiene, and development standards.
  • Maximum of 6 children under 13 years of age (not including the operator's own children). **Advantages:
  • Home atmosphere, small number of children.
  • Flexible schedule, individual approach.
  • Often cheaper than large centers.
  • Ability to find a daycare center near your home through municipal or provincial registries. How to find one:
  • Child Care Lookup Tool (provincial day homes).
  • Business Map Tool to find municipally licensed daycare centers.

4. Other childcare options

  • Nannies, babysitters, informal arrangements - do not require a license if the care is provided by relatives, friends, or neighbors, or if the care is provided for less than 6 hours per week.
  • Specialized child development centers - clubs, school readiness centers, short-term programs.

5. How to choose the best option?

  • Check for a license (provincial or municipal).
  • Evaluate the development program, staff qualifications, and parent reviews.
  • Consider the location, schedule, cost, meals, and additional services.
  • Visit the daycare before enrolling and talk to the teachers.

Conclusion

In Calgary, parents can choose between public, private, and home daycares, each with its own advantages and characteristics. Regardless of the type, facilities must meet safety, quality of care, and child development standards. To find the best option, use official online tools, consult with local authorities, and don't hesitate to ask the daycare administration questions.