Child Care

There are different options for parents who cannot always be home to care for their children. Child care can be offered during the day or after school.

Child care centres

Licensed facilities that operate during the day and early evening. All employees of child care centres must meet qualification requirements as outlined by the government. A list of child care centres can be found on the Nova Scotia government website.

Other-home care

Care given by an adult in a home other than the child’s, usually the home of the caregiver. Sometimes more convenient because it 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

Given by an adult in the home of the child. Many parents find this the most convenient form of child care because they do not have to take their children to a caregiver before work, and pick them up after work.

Babysitter

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.

Subsidized child care

Subsidized child care is financial assistance to help low income families pay for child centre costs while they are working, attending school, 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 is eligible:

Child care tax benefits

If you have children, you may qualify for certain benefits from provincial and federal governments. You can obtain the application forms and further information at the Canada Revenue Agency website. Enrolment for these benefits are processed through the Canada Child Tax Benefit application.

The Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children under age 18. The CCTB may include the National Child Benefit and Child Disability Benefit.