Whether parents are working, or have to go out for a short time, the child should be under the supervision of a caregiver. There are different options for parents who cannot always be home to care for children.

Child Care Centres are licensed facilities that operate during the day and early evening for parents who work during the day. All employees of child care centres must meet qualification requirements as outlined by the government.

There are many others that offer after school programs, day time care, meal programs and much more. The Child Care Connection Nova Scotia provides a listing of all registered child care centres in Nova Scotia.

Other-Home Care is care given by an adult in a home other than the child’s, usually the home of the caregiver. They are sometimes considered more convenient by parents, because other-home care can be closer to the home or school of the child. Other-home caregivers do not require a license, they must be hired and monitored by the parents.

Own-Home Care is given by an adult in the home of the child. Many parents find this the most convenient form of child care because they don’t have to take their children to a caregiver before work, and pick them up after work.

Subsidized Daycare
Subsidized day care is financial assistance to help low income families pay for child centre costs while they are working, attending educational institutions, or have special child care needs.

To be eligible for the child care subsidy program, you must meet certain income and employment standards. Here are some examples of who’s eligible:

• Single parents, so they can work or attend school?
• Two parent families so they can work or attend school
• Legal and non-legal guardians who need help to provide care often grandparents who find caring for a child challenging
• Referrals that come from community resources on behalf of families who need financial help

Related Link:
Department of Community Services

Babysitters
A babysitter is a person who takes care of children while the parents are out. It is usually for just one evening or a few hours during the day. In many neighborhoods and communities, there are older children (aged 14 +) who baby-sit. If you are having trouble finding a babysitter, ask parents in your neighborhood if they know someone interested in babysitting.