Join our team of dedicated family day home educators and make a difference in children's lives while running your own rewarding childcare business.
Qualifications
A Family Day Home Educator should be someone who:
Has genuine enjoyment working with children and offers a welcoming environment
Understands the impact their role will have on children's lives
Is physically and emotionally resilient
Lives in a stable, nurturing environment
Owns a home meeting government safety, health, space, and outdoor play requirements. If renting the applicant must get written permission from the landlord or condo association that they allow a business to operate on the premises.
Can submit clear Criminal & Intervention Record Checks, and 3 references for all household members
Operates according to Government of Alberta and agency standards
Can perform administrative duties and run a small business including record keeping and maintaining advertising aids such as a Facebook page
Has strong communication skills with children and adults
Responds appropriately to children's needs with positive behavior guidance
Welcomes support from professional consultants
Values professional development and ongoing training
Certifies in First Aid within 3 months of starting
Is flexible to meet diverse client care needs
Approval Process
The approval process requires a minimum of three home visits. All household members must be present for at least one interview. The screening requirements (Criminal & Intervention Record Checks) take 3-6 weeks to complete.
Initial Contact
Contact our agency to set up an appointment with our Coordinator for your first home visit
Orientation & Home Study
Complete orientation process and home study assessment
Safety & Home Setup
Ensure home meets all safety and setup requirements
Policies & Contract
Review policies and sign your educator contract
Startup Costs
Like any small business, you'll encounter startup costs. The following requirements will incur costs:
Once approved, the agency can provide short-term loans to help with startup costs.
Training & Support
Professional Development Funding
NEFDHA is eligible for Government of Alberta professional development grants covering post-secondary studies, conferences, workshops, and ECE training courses. Plus release time funding for class hours and coursework.
Orientation Package
Upon approval, receive Orientation Binder, Standards of Care, Family Day Home Manual, Educator Handbook, and portfolio. Agency supplies all minimum training except First Aid.
Online & In-Person Training
Complete online Childcare Orientation Course (18 sessions, ~3 hours each) within 6 months. Plus additional training opportunities throughout the year for networking and support.
Certification Levels & Wage Enhancement
Alberta offers three certification levels for childcare staff, each with wage enhancement funding for recruitment and retention of qualified educators.
Level 1
Requirements: Minimum 54 hours of study
Available through Government of Alberta's online Level 1 ECE course
Level 2
Requirements: Minimum 1 year post-secondary study with field placement
Available at colleges and universities. Costs offset through Professional Development Funding Grant
Level 3
Requirements: Minimum 2 years post-secondary study with comprehensive field placement
Available at colleges and universities. Costs reimbursed through Professional Development Funding Grant
Questions about certification or Professional Development Funding? Contact our agency or the Child Care Certification Office at 1-800-661-9754
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Join our supportive community of family day home educators today
Apply Now