FAQ - Opening a Dayhome

 

What are the requirements?

We require a Security Clearance, Vulnerable Sector Check and Child Intervention Check for everyone in the home that is 18 years or older. All providers are required to have a current Child/Infant CPR First Aid Certificate. You can still apply to become a dayhome program educator prior to completing your security clearance and intervention checks. You will need to get them before your approval process. We are not approving dayhomes in apartments.

Do I need an education to become a dayhome educator?

It is an asset if you have your Early Childhood Educator(ECE) Level 1, 2, or 3. We will still consider applicants who do not have any childcare certifications. If you do become a dayhome program educator through our agency, you are required to complete your Level 1 course. This can be completed through in-home study in the comfort of your own home.

Can I have pets?

Yes, they are a great addition to the home! Pet vaccines must be current and the litterbox, food and water must be inaccessible to the children.

Can I drive with the children?

Yes, but it is mandatory that all educators who transport children during dayhome hours in any vehicle (including taxi cabs) attend a Child Safety Seat Information Session. If an educator's spouse is the one transporting, they must complete this training as well.

Does my home need to look like a daycare?

No, you do not need the same equipment in your home or require that your space looks like a daycare. Your environment should be responsive to both your family and the children's needs.

Can I pick my own families?

When choosing families, the decision is yours, not the agency. Educators set their own fees, hours and choose their families. We want educators to choose a family who is a good fit based on their values in child care.

How much does it cost?

We do not charge a fee to become a dayhome program educator with our agency. You will be responsible for the cost of the criminal background check and First Aid/CPR course. You will also be responsible for costs associated with running your dayhome (i.e. developing your play space, food/drink for children, etc.) Since you are running your own business, many of these costs are tax-deductible.

How much will I make?

As a dayhome program educator, you are considered self-employed and able to set your own rates and the agency will add a standard administrative fee on top of your rate. Because we are a licensed family dayhome agency, educators are eligible to qualify for support funding based on your level of education. This funding is added over and above your monthly rate. Please see the "What are the Benefits" section for more info.

How many children can I care for and what are the ratios?

You can have up to six children (aged 12 and under) not including your own children. You can have two children under the age of 2 or three children under the age of 3 (your own children count in this ratio.)

Can I run my dayhome if I rent my home?

Yes, however you must first get permission from your landlord.

Can my friend/husband/sister/daughter etc. run my dayhome with me?

Only one person can be contracted with the agency. Your friend/husband/sister/daughter, etc can apply to become a back-up educator for situations where you are unable to care for the children. To become a back-up educator, they must get a Criminal Background Check, Child Intervention Check, First Aid/CPR and must provide 3 references.

What makes your agency unique?

We are a well-known dayhome agency in operation for over 30 years and have won numerous awards including the Minister's Award of Excellence in Child Development, Director of the Year, and Childcare Consultant of the Year. We have a strong social media presence as well as a private Facebook group for our Educators. We use the StoryPark app to involve parents with their child's learning.

I have a private dayhome and have managed on my own. Why should I go with an agency?

Whether you are just starting out or have an established dayhome already, there are many benefits to joining our agency, including financial incentives such as government wage top up, $10/day childcare for families (by 2026), and attracting families looking for licensed, monitored childcare. See more benefits below.

What are the benefits of opening my dayhome through your agency?

-The agency will handle all financial matters including collecting payments from families and claiming for educator support funding so you can concentrate on running your dayhome.

-We refer families to your dayhome. Our agency advertises on Google, Kijiji, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Yelp, and other directories and websites.

-Our agency offers government subsidies for families who qualify.

-You will have a dedicated consultant with education and experience in child care to mentor and guide you.

-By working through our agency, you are eligible to receive a wage top up based on your certification (up to a maximum of 181 hours per month):

ECE Level 1 - $2.64/hour
ECE Level 2 - $5.05/hour
ECE Level 3 - $8.62/hour

-We offer several workshops every year, helping you grow professionally

-Receive interest-free loans for toys and dayhome equipment

-Playroom consultations and makeovers

-Networking opportunities

-Yearly anniversary gifts to our educators, as well as Christmas and educator appreciation gifts.

-$25 referral bonus for finding your own family, $50 referral bonus for referring an educator who gets approved by our agency.

-Last but not least, we have very friendly staff available to support you and the families in care!

Apply Here: Online Application Form