When parents work, children often stay with relatives or friends, or they go to child care programs which are commonly called "day care."
Child care, preschool and playschool programs are offered for very young children who are too young to go to school. These programs usually focus on learning through play, stories and songs, and promote language development through interaction with other children their age. Families can choose whether or not to send their children to these programs. Child care programs may also provide care for school-aged children before and after school hours.
Licensed child care is offered in child care centres and in private homes. It is for children from six weeks to 12 years of age. Licensed child care is regulated and partially paid for by the provincial government. Child care centres are usually operated by a non-profit corporation or a co-operative whose members are the parents of the children who go to the centre. Parents pay a fee set by the child care provider. It might be difficult to find licensed child care since there are not enough people offering this service. So it is important to reserve a place as far in advance as possible of the date you want your child to attend.
The fees charged by licensed child care facilities vary depending on factors such as the age of the child, services provided, and other revenues available. People who cannot afford the fees can apply for assistance through the Child Care Subsidy Program under the Ministry of Social Services.
You can find further information and a list of licensed family child care homes and child care centres at Early Learning and Child Care Program on the Ministry of Education’s website.
Most communities in Saskatchewan have preschool or playschool programs for children who are three or four years old. Some programs are focused on things like providing education in specific languages. There are no provincial regulations in Saskatchewan guiding the operation of preschools, and no provincial funding is available. The majority of programs charge a fee and fees vary widely across the province. To find out about local preschool or playschool programs, ask your school or school division, or your local child care centres. Your village, town or city municipal office or your Regional Newcomer Gateway may also be able to assist you.
