Educator FAQs

The approval process begins with an initial contact to our agency. You will meet with a Coordinator who will explain the requirements and approval process. This includes submitting Criminal Record Checks with Vulnerable Sector Searches and Child Intervention Checks for all household members aged 18+, providing three character references, and completing an application package. The Coordinator will conduct two meetings with your entire family and complete a minimum of three home visits. Once approved, you will complete our internal training program and can begin caring for children. The entire process typically takes 2-4 months.

Your income depends on several factors including the number of children in your care, their ages, and the hours of care provided. Educators can care for up to 6 children (in addition to their own) with a maximum of 2 children under age 2. The Government of Alberta set rates for full-time and part-time placements. Educators are able to set their own fee for daily casual care and before and after school placements. The agency collects fees on your behalf. Additionally, eligible Educators receive government wage enhancement funding up to $1,560/month based on certification level. Many Educators also benefit from home business tax deductions. Your Coordinator can provide detailed information about potential income during the application process.

NEFDHA provides comprehensive support including:

• Fee collection and financial management, including guarantee of payment
• Backup care coordination when you need time off
• Free professional development workshops and training
• Access to lending library (prop boxes, equipment, resources)
• Monthly newsletters with activity ideas and updates
• Regular Consultant visits for guidance and support
•  Cost shared liability insurance coverage
• Marketing and family placement services
• 24/7 phone support for emergencies
• Agency organized networking opportunities
• Cost share support to different app. programs like Lillio and Storypark

You are never alone - we are here to support your success.

All Educators must complete our internal agency training program which covers Alberta regulations, safety protocols, programming, and business practices. You must also maintain current First Aid and CPR certification (provided through the agency at no cost). While prior Early Childhood Education certification is not required to start, the agency provides free access to Level 1 Child Development Assistant certification. Educators are also required to attend professional development workshops throughout the year to stay current with best practices. Many Educators choose to pursue Level 2 or Level 3 certification for increased wage enhancement funding.

Yes! You are entitled to paid statutory holidays and can take pre-arranged vacation time throughout the year. You must provide families with adequate notice (typically 4-6 weeks) so they can arrange alternative care or take their own vacation. The agency provides backup care services to families when you are unavailable, so you can take time off with peace of mind. Most Educators take 2-3 weeks of vacation per year in addition to statutory holidays.

Your home must meet safety standards including:

• Safe indoor and outdoor play spaces
• Working smoke detectors and fire extinguisher
• Secure storage for medications and cleaning supplies
• Safe sleeping arrangements for children
• Age-appropriate toys and equipment
• Fenced outdoor play area (or alternative safe outdoor space)
• Clean, organized environment

You do not need a separate dedicated space - many Educators operate successfully from their family home. Your Coordinator will complete a safety assessment and help you prepare your home during the approval process.

Yes! One of the major benefits of being a Family Day Home Educator is the ability to stay home with your own children while earning an income. Your own children do not count toward your total capacity of 6 children, and you can include them in all programming and activities. Many Educators find this arrangement allows them to provide excellent care to other children while being present for their own family. Your own children benefit from socialization, structured activities, and learning alongside other children.

As a home-based business, you can claim numerous tax deductions including:

• Portion of mortgage/rent, utilities, and property taxes
• Food and snack supplies
• Toys, equipment, and educational materials
• Vehicle expenses for field trips and activities
• Professional development and training costs
• Insurance and licensing fees
• Office supplies and technology

The agency provides guidance on record-keeping and can refer you to accountants experienced with family day home businesses. Many Educators receive significant tax savings through these deductions.

NEFDHA charges an administrative fee that covers comprehensive support services including fee collection, backup care coordination, professional development, lending library access, liability insurance, marketing, and Consultant support. The fee structure is competitive and transparent - your Coordinator will provide complete details during the application process. Many Educators find the fee is well worth the peace of mind and professional support they receive.

Your Consultant is your first point of contact for any concerns. We provide guidance and support for:

• Challenging behaviors and guidance strategies
• Communication issues with families
• Payment or contract concerns
• Safety or child welfare concerns
• Termination procedures if needed

The agency has clear policies and procedures to support both Educators and families in resolving concerns. You are never alone in managing difficult situations - we are here to help you navigate challenges professionally and effectively.

Yes, you have the flexibility to close your day home at any time with appropriate notice to families (typically 4-6 weeks). Educators close for various reasons including  maternity leave, retirement, family circumstances, or choosing to find employment outside of the home.. The agency will support you through the transition process and help families find alternative care. Many Educators return to the program after breaks for maternity leave or family needs - you are always welcome back. Any leave longer that six months would require a new application to return.

Family Day Home Educators can care for children from birth to 12 years old. You can choose to specialize in specific age groups (e.g., infants/toddlers only, preschool only, or school-age only) or provide mixed-age care. The government provides additional funding ($150/month) to Educators who accept children under 19 months. Many Educators enjoy mixed-age groupings as it creates a family-like atmosphere and allows siblings to stay together.