All child care centres must be licensed. Their staff members usually have some formal caregiving training, although that can vary according to jurisdiction. Licensing for home child care programs is usually done by granting a licence to a Home Child Care Agency which, in turn, supervises the child care programs offered in its various homes. However, most home child care is unlicensed. Many unlicensed programs are excellent but you should be aware that, if you choose an unlicensed venue, your child is not protected by the regulations set out by your province or territory.
Some parents prefer a centre-based program because it is near their office or has a good reputation.
Others choose a home child care program because it seems less structured and more family-oriented. You may find that your neighbour offering unlicensed care in her home provides what you consider to be a quality program. Check with other parents and be sure to talk to your potential caregiver about quality programming and what that means for you and your child. For information on quality child care, go to Making a Quality Child Care Choice , Types of Child Care, and the National Statement on Quality Child Care. At Home Alone , Children Home Alone Fun Page .