Finding and Choosing Early Learning and Child Care Programs
Overview
Early learning and child care play a crucial role in the healthy development of all children. During the first five years of a child's life, their brain grows rapidly, and everyone involved in their life, including family members, grandparents, caregivers, and others, plays a significant role in shaping their early development.
Choosing quality child care is an important decision. You want a secure, healthy environment that fosters your children's development in all areas - social, physical, intellectual, creative and emotional.
Licensed early learning and child care programs provide families with a safe and caring environment for children to learn and grow in. They deliver a valued service across the territories.
A licence is required to operate an early learning and child care program that provides care for four or more children.
To get a licence, a home or centre must meet the requirements stated in Early Learning and Child Care Act and Early Learning and Child Care Regulations and be inspected once a year.
Know your options
If you have an infant, toddler or preschooler, you can choose between:
If your child is in – or ready for – school, you can choose from:
Choosing the right child care for you
Choosing the right child care for your family can be a difficult decision with a lot to consider.
Read our tips to help you find and choose quality child care in the NWT. This guide will help you know what to look for, what questions to ask and what details to consider when choosing child care.
Search for early learning and child care
After you’ve decided on the type of licensed program that is right for your family, search a list of licensed early learning and child care facilities.
Contact us if you have concerns
Contact us if you have concerns related to the health, safety or well-being of children in a centre-based or home-based facility – whether they are a licensed or unlicensed.