What to Look for in a Dayhome in Calgary: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Choosing childcare is one of the most significant decisions parents will make. Finding the right environment is critical, whether you are returning to work, need extra help, or want your child to experience social interactions. In Calgary, parents have several options, including daycare centers and dayhomes. While both offer professional childcare services, dayhomes provide a unique, more personalized approach, which many parents find advantageous. In this blog, we will focus on dayhomes and discuss how they differ from daycare centers, what you should look for when selecting one in Calgary, and why they may be the better choice for your family.

What is a day home?

A day home is a form of childcare where a caregiver looks after a small group of children in a home setting. This is often compared to a traditional daycare center, but some key differences exist. In the daytime, the caregiver typically cares for fewer children, offers a more personalized experience, and operates in a home-like environment. The structure can vary; some dayhomes are regulated by Alberta’s licensing authorities, while others operate privately.

Dayhomes balance home life and early childhood education, offering nurturing care in a family-oriented environment. They can be an excellent option for parents who want a more intimate, flexible, and often more affordable childcare solution.

Why Choose a Dayhome Over a Daycare Center?

Before diving into what to look for in a day home, let’s briefly explore why many parents in Calgary choose dayhomes over traditional daycare centers.

1. Smaller Group Sizes

One of the most significant advantages of dayhomes is the smaller group size. Dayhomes in Calgary are usually capped at 6 children per caregiver, making it easier for children to receive individual attention. In contrast, daycare centers may care for larger groups of children, often making it harder for caregivers to provide personalized attention.

The smaller group size in a day home allows for stronger relationships between the caregiver and the child. This individualized care can lead to a more nurturing and secure environment, which can be particularly beneficial for younger children or those who may have trouble adjusting to larger groups.

2. Home-Like Environment

A day home is set in a residential home, which provides a more familiar and less institutional environment for children. This home-like setting can offer a smoother transition for children from being cared for by family members to a more structured form of childcare. The cozy, comfortable atmosphere of a day home can help children feel more at ease, especially during those initial days when they are still adjusting to being away from home.

In contrast, daycare centers often have a more institutional feel, which can overwhelm some children. A day home's softer, home-like environment helps bridge the gap between home care and a structured childcare setting.

3. Flexible Scheduling

Dayhomes are often more flexible in terms of scheduling than daycare centers. While daycare centers typically operate within strict hours and have fixed schedules, many dayhomes are more accommodating to parents’ needs. Whether you need part-time care, extended hours, or occasional drop-in care, dayhomes can offer flexible solutions that cater to your family’s unique schedule.

4. Lower Cost

Dayhomes are often more affordable than daycare centers, especially in cities like Calgary, where childcare costs can be high. Dayhome operators typically have lower overhead costs than daycare centers, charging lower fees while still providing high-quality care. For many families, the affordability of dayhomes can be a significant factor in their decision-making process.

5. Individualized Care

With fewer children to care for, day home operators can offer more tailored care that meets each child's specific needs. This can include personalized attention to developmental milestones, meal preferences, and any special needs or concerns parents may have. The caregiver can build stronger, closer bonds with each child, leading to a more individualized and supportive environment.

What to Look for When Choosing a Dayhome in Calgary

While dayhomes offer several advantages over traditional daycare centers, not all dayhomes are created equal. To ensure you choose the right day home for your child, here are several factors to consider during your search.

1. Licensing and Accreditation

One of the first things you should look for when choosing a day home is whether it is licensed and accredited by the province of Alberta. Licensed dayhomes are required to meet specific safety, staffing, and program standards, which can provide peace of mind to parents. The Alberta Family Child Care Association (AFCCA) also offers accreditation programs for dayhomes, ensuring they follow best childcare practices.

However, not all dayhomes must be licensed, and some parents may choose a private, unregulated day home that operates outside the licensing framework. While private dayhomes can still provide excellent care, it's essential to do thorough research and ask detailed questions to ensure the caregiver provides a safe and nurturing environment.

2. Caregiver Qualifications

The qualifications and experience of the caregiver are crucial when choosing a day home. Ask about the caregiver’s background, education, and experience in early childhood development. Caregivers who have taken courses in first aid, child development, and child safety are better equipped to handle the various needs and challenges that may arise in a childcare setting.

Additionally, inquire about the caregiver’s philosophy of care. Do they believe in a structured schedule with formal learning activities, or do they take a more flexible, play-based approach? It’s essential to find a caregiver whose philosophy aligns with your values and your child's needs.

3. Safety and Cleanliness

Parents should prioritize the safety and cleanliness of the day home environment. When visiting a day home, note the cleanliness of the space, including play areas, eating areas, and bathroom facilities. A clean, well-maintained environment is essential for the health and well-being of your child.

Additionally, ask about safety precautions, such as childproofing, fire safety measures, and emergency preparedness. Licensed dayhomes must follow specific safety standards. However, if you are considering a private day home, ensuring the caregiver has taken appropriate measures to childproof the home and prepare for emergencies is essential.

4. Program and Activities

Another essential factor to consider is the program and activities offered at the day home. A well-rounded day home should provide a variety of age-appropriate activities that promote learning, creativity, and physical development. Ask about the daily schedule and how the caregiver plans to incorporate arts and crafts, outdoor play, storytime, and interactive games.

It’s also important to consider the balance between structured activities and free play. While some children thrive in a highly structured environment, others may do better with more flexibility and opportunities for free exploration. Finding the right balance for your child can help them enjoy their time at the day home while fostering their development.

5. Nutrition and Meal Planning

Another critical consideration is the meals and snacks provided at the day home. Ask the caregiver about the types of food they serve and whether they can accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies your child may have. A nutritious, well-balanced diet is essential for a child’s growth and development, so ensuring the day home offers healthy options is vital.

Some dayhomes ask parents to provide meals and snacks, while others include meal planning as part of their service. Either way, it’s essential to communicate clearly with the caregiver about your child’s dietary needs and preferences.

6. Location and Convenience

Another practical factor to consider is the daycare's location. Ideally, the daycare should be conveniently located near your home, workplace, or along your daily commute. Consider how the location will impact your daily routine and whether it will be easy to drop off and pick up your child on time.

Additionally, consider the caregiver's flexibility regarding drop-off and pick-up times. Some dayhomes may offer extended hours, while others may have stricter punctuality policies. Finding a day home that fits your family’s schedule and allows for some flexibility when needed is essential.

7. References and Reviews

One of the best ways to determine whether a day home is a good fit is to ask for references and read reviews from other parents. Speak to other families who have used the home to understand their experience and any concerns they may have had. Online reviews can also provide valuable insight into the caregiver’s reputation and the quality of care provided.

If possible, ask the caregiver for a list of references and contact information for other parents who have used their services. This can give you a better sense of what to expect and whether the day home will fit your child well.

8. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, it’s essential to trust your instincts when choosing a daycare. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone, and you often have a gut feeling about whether a daycare is the right fit. Pay attention to how you feel when you visit the daycare and interact with the caregiver. If something doesn’t feel right, you must listen to your instincts and continue your search until you find the right fit.

The Advantages of Dayhomes for Calgary Families

Now that we've covered what to look for in a day home let's recap some of the critical reasons why dayhomes are attractive for Calgary families.

• Personalized Care: Dayhomes offer smaller group sizes, which allows for more individualized care and stronger caregiver-child relationships.

• Home-Like Environment: A day home setting provides a more comfortable and familiar environment, helping children feel secure and at ease.

• Flexibility: Many dayhomes offer flexible scheduling options, making it easier for parents to find a solution that fits their needs.

• Affordability: Dayhomes are often more cost-effective than daycare centers, providing high-quality care at a more affordable price.

• Close-Knit Community: A dayhome's small group setting allows children to form close bonds with their peers, creating a more intimate and family-like atmosphere.

Choosing the right childcare provider is a profoundly personal decision, and for many families in Calgary, a day home provides the perfect balance between quality care, affordability, and flexibility. By taking the time to research your options, visit potential dayhomes, and ask the right questions, you can ensure that your child is in a safe, nurturing environment that supports their growth and development.

Whether you're drawn to the personalized care, home-like environment, or lower cost, a day home can be an excellent choice for parents looking for a more flexible and intimate childcare option. With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to find the perfect dayhome for your family in Calgary.