Child care – Supports for parents and families

Child care is an essential part of Alberta’s economic recovery. When parents and caregivers go to work or school, they need to know their children are safe and have the resources they need to grow and thrive.

Parents and families across Alberta rely on licensed child care programs every day to support the growth and development of their children. Child care programs and educators help children of all abilities build skills that support their growth and overall health.

Choosing quality child care for your family is a very important decision. You want to find a safe, healthy environment that supports the social, physical, intellectual, creative and emotional development of your children. Learn about Finding and choosing child care in Alberta, and if you are eligible to apply for child care subsidy for help with child care fees.

Access to inclusive child care is important to support families who have children with extra support needs. Inclusive child care environments support parents’ participation in the workforce and help children to build positive relationships and participate meaningfully in the program.

The provincial Inclusive Child Care (ICC) program assists licensed child care programs and educators to build their capacity to include children who have extra support needs, increase families’ access to inclusive child care, and prevent the exclusion or removal of children from child care programs.

The ICC program provides child care programs and educators with short-term, intensive supports through coaching and consulting to build their capacity to include children with extra support needs.