Parents
Our group was formed to support other day homes, but we are often approached by families searching for quality child care. We can help put you in touch with caregivers that are potentially suitable, although we are not an agency and have not approved nor recommend any caregiver. Should you wish to interview caregivers in our group, please email details on what days & hours of care you need, what ages & any other info. Your email will be forwarded on to our members so those with available space may contact you.
Send us an email here.
We recognize that child care arrangements are one of the hardest decisions to make, and parents must choose the care that best suits their family. When meeting potential caregivers, feel free to ask what is important to you.
Some topics to discuss could include, but are not limited to:
Send us an email here.
We recognize that child care arrangements are one of the hardest decisions to make, and parents must choose the care that best suits their family. When meeting potential caregivers, feel free to ask what is important to you.
Some topics to discuss could include, but are not limited to:
- How long has she been a provider? How long does she plan to continue?
- Are parents welcome to visit?
- What is the illness policy?
- If one child stays home sick, should the other child also stay home?
- How many other children & adults are in the home?
- What are the policies & discipline methods?
- How would a disagreement be handled?
- What types of foods are served?
- What kind of activities are planned?
- Will children be transported & how often?
- What are the fees & payment policies?
- Are policies/contract in writing?
- How do vacations work when the child or provider is away?
- Is there a current child welfare (CWIS) intervention check?
- Is there a current police check?
- Are there at least 3 references that you may contact?
- Will you require subsidy? (currently only licensed/approved facilities can offer subsidy)
What to expect with a dayhome...
Dayhomes are a home-like environment, which is why many families choose them. Some have regular routines and some do not. Some drive to schools for drop off & picks ups during the day, some do not. Many will have a family pet. Most dayhomes take pride in their home playroom set-ups, their educational experience and their daily program they provide for their children. When you choose a dayhome, you are working closely with that person day after day. Mutual trust is important - meaning that while it’s important that you put your trust into her, she also needs to trust that you will respect her policies (for example late pick ups that could interfere with her families schedule). Some of the best reasons to choose a dayhome over other types of care is the intimate family setting and close working relationship. Dayhomes often care for your child through their most critical developing years. They learn valuable skills through peer mentoring and play, and often develop close bonds with their dayhome 'family'.
If you can meet with your potential dayhome during opening hours, it gives you a good opportunity to see how a typical day would be for your child if they were in care.
If you can meet with your potential dayhome during opening hours, it gives you a good opportunity to see how a typical day would be for your child if they were in care.
What does child care cost in Okotoks?
Average child care rates range $850-$975 per month, or $55-$70/day.
Before/after school care $25-$35/day or $675/month, PD days may be extra.
Before/after school care $25-$35/day or $675/month, PD days may be extra.
Choosing child care in alberta
Alberta Children's Services provides a broad range of supports and resources to help parents choose the child care program that best meets their family's needs.
