English
Français
Subsidies for child care services:
The Ministry of Human Services provides financial assistance to eligible lower-income families using:
➤ Licensed day care centres.
➤ Licensed group family child care.
➤ Approved family day homes.
➤ Licensed out-of-school care centres.
➤ Licensed pre-schools.
➤ Approved early childhood development programs.
➤ Maximum subsidy rates vary by program type and the age of child attending child care.
➤ The subsidy should be applicable for grade 1 to grade 6 .
➤ No subsidy available for kids from 0 to kindergarten but grant is available.
You can Apply for subsidy if,
➤ You or your spouse/partner, or the child receiving care are Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada and live in Alberta.
➤ You or your spouse/partner are an Alberta resident.
➤ Your children are 12 years of age or younger and are not yet attending Grade 7.
➤ You and your spouse/partner are currently working, attending school, looking for work or have special needs
OR
➤ You or your spouse/partner stay-at-home and have your child(ren) enrolled in a licensed pre-school or approved early childhood development program.
In conclusion, Varsity Kindergarten is a truly exceptional institution that provides young children with a solid foundation for their future success. The dedicated staff, engaging curriculum, and top-notch facilities all work together to create a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. It is a Kindergarten that any parent would be proud to have their child attend. So feel free to contact Varsity Kindergarten at 403-457-2033
Child Care Subsidy in Calgary: A Guide for Alberta Families
The cost of care is a major concern for many families, and the child care subsidy in Calgary and across Alberta exists to make it more manageable. This guide explains, in plain language, how the Alberta child care subsidy works, who may qualify and how to apply. It is general information only. Programs, income limits and payment amounts change, so always confirm the current rules on the Government of Alberta website before you apply.
What is the Alberta child care subsidy?
The subsidy is financial help from the Government of Alberta for eligible families who use approved child care. It is paid for children who attend eligible programs such as licensed day care centres, licensed out-of-school care and approved family day homes. The amount depends on things like your family income, your child's age or grade, the type of program and how many hours your child attends each month.
Who may be eligible for child care subsidy in Calgary?
Requirements are set by the province, but in general you will be asked to show that:
- You, your spouse or partner, or the child receiving care, meet the citizenship or immigration requirements, and you or your partner live in Alberta.
- Your child is young enough to be covered, and is enrolled in a program that qualifies for subsidy.
- You and your partner are working, studying, looking for work or have a special need that requires child care. Some stay-at-home parents may qualify when their child is enrolled in a licensed pre-school or an approved early childhood development program.
- Your family income falls within the limits set by the program. Income is normally based on your most recent Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency.
Our own information page notes that subsidy is generally aimed at school-age children, from Grade 1 to Grade 6, while younger children may benefit from separate grants instead. Because these rules are updated from time to time, check the official page to see exactly how they apply to your child.
How to apply for child care subsidy in Alberta
Most families apply online using an Alberta account, which is the quickest way to have an application processed. A paper form is also available, but paper applications can take longer. Before you start, gather the following:
- Your most recent Notice of Assessment, and your partner's if you have one.
- Identification and immigration documents, if they apply to your family.
- Details of your child and of the child care program.
- Proof of the reason you need care, such as employment, school enrolment or a job search.
Apply well before your child starts care. Processing takes time, and it is easier to have the subsidy in place from day one. The official application information is available on the Government of Alberta child care subsidy page.
Other financial supports for Calgary families
The subsidy is not the only source of help. Alberta families may also receive the Canada Child Benefit and, depending on income, the Alberta Child and Family Benefit. These are based on your tax return and are separate from the child care subsidy. There are also provincial child care grants that reduce fees for children under school age. It is worth checking each one, because they are designed to work alongside each other.
How Play Play Play Calgary can help
Our team can walk you through our before and after school care, kindergarten care and summer camp schedules, so you know how many hours your child would attend and what documents you will need to gather. Program details and fees are listed on our child daycare Calgary page. If you are considering Varsity Kindergarten and Before & After School Care or Midnapore Daycare, ask us how subsidy applies to that particular program before you apply, so there are no surprises.
Frequently asked questions
Is the child care subsidy paid to me or to the daycare?
Arrangements can differ, so confirm the payment details when you apply and with the program you choose.
What if my income changes?
Tell the subsidy office as soon as your situation changes. If you have lost income recently, you can ask for your income to be reviewed.
Does subsidy cover before and after school care in Calgary?
Out-of-school care in an eligible program can qualify for school-age children. The rate depends on your income, the child's grade and how many hours your child attends.
Where can I get help with the application?
You can contact the Government of Alberta directly, or contact us and we will point you in the right direction.
Have a question about child care subsidy in Calgary? Call Robina at 403-870-8503, or send us a message using the admission form at the bottom of the page.