FAQs about child care centres

Many parents may have misconceptions about the variety of child care centres on the market in their communities and what they offer. Here’s the low-down on frequently asked questions, with the hope that this will help parents in selecting the right kind of child care for their particular needs.

1) What’s the difference between a licensed and unlicensed centre?

In Nova Scotia, any child care establishment which cares for more than six children must be licensed by law by the Department of Community Services.

2) What is the difference between a day care centre and a nursery school?

A day care centre usually provides full day care, from early morning to late afternoon. A nursery school or pre-school is normally a half-day program, either morning or afternoon. Both offer quality early childhood education.

3) Are home child care providers licensed?

In this province, home child care is an unlicensed sector. This means that there is no accountability or monitoring unless the home is a satellite program offered through a licensed centre. It is therefore up to the parent to check references, ask questions and determine if this is an appropriate setting for their child in terms of health and safety, programming, behavior mmanagement and curriculum.

4) What does it mean if a centre is licensed?

A licensed centre is inspected regularly by the Department of Community Services to ensure that the program is developmentally appropriate in all areas including physical, intellectual, emotional and social development.

The teachers and director must be trained in post-secondary early childhood education, participate in professional development, be current in their emergency first-aid training and be screened by the Child Abuse Registry.

The centre must also pass regular health inspections by the Department of Health for safety and cleanliness, and fire inspections for fire safety by the Fire Marshal.

5) What’s the difference between a non-profit centre and a commercial centre?

The licensing procedure and criteria are identical. The main difference is that the non-profit centre is administered through a Board of Directors while a commercial centre is privately owned and operated. Only non-profit centres are eligible for offering subsidized spaces.

6) How do I choose what centre is most suitable for for my child?

Ask questions. Find out about the program, behaviour management , general policies, philosophy, hours of operation, school readiness, fees. Find a setting that’s compatible with your values and child care needs.

7) What about infant care?

Some licensed centres are set up for infant care, but many are not, largely due to the high cost of extra staff and equipment. Other options for infant care are home care settings or finding a caregiver or nanny to come into your own home. Always ask for references and maintain good communication. After all, your infant can’t tell you about his/her day.

8) How much does quality child care cost?

That depends. You will have to shop around, but don’t make your decision solely on the cost. Look at the big picture and compare all aspects of child care, from programming to philosophy. Having a caregiver come into your own home may be more costly than group child care for example, but may fit your needs the best. Most child care centres offer competitive rates and subsidized spaces are available in a limited number of centres to families who meet the criteria.

Don’t be shy. Ask plenty of questions, at least as many as you would ask if you were purchasing a used car. After all, it’s your child and it’s your choice.

Lila Hope-Simpson is the Director of the Home and Heart Nursery School in Wolfville