For Calgary parents seeking licensed and enriching childcare, cost is often one of the first questions asked. While quality care is priceless, understanding the financial commitment is essential for budgeting and long-term planning. Whether you’re new to childcare or evaluating options, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to access financial relief programs in Alberta.
Average Dayhome Costs in Calgary
Dayhome rates in Calgary vary based on age group, care model, and whether the facility is licensed and eligible for government funding. Here’s a general breakdown of average monthly costs:
- Infants (0–18 months): $1,300 – $1,500
- Toddlers (19 months–3 years): $1,100 – $1,400
- Preschoolers (3–5 years): $1,000 – $1,300
These numbers represent averages for licensed group dayhome models in Calgary. Private or unlicensed childcare may fall outside these ranges but often lacks access to provincial funding and regulated standards.
Discovery Tots Dayhome offers both full-time and part-time licensed dayhome spaces throughout Calgary. As a fully licensed agency, our programs are eligible for government grants, making high-quality care more accessible to families.
Full-Time vs Part-Time Childcare Costs
The cost differences between full-time and part-time care are significant, and choosing the right option depends on your family’s specific needs and work schedules.
- Full-time Care: Typically 5 days per week, 8–10 hours per day. Average costs range from $1,100 to $1,500 per month.
- Part-time Care: 2–3 days per week or shorter daily hours. Costs typically range from $600 to $1,000 per month.
At Discovery Tots Dayhome, part-time care is a popular and cost-effective option, especially for families with flexible work schedules. Our most profitable and in-demand product is the 3-day/week space, a practical balance between structure and affordability.
Alberta’s Affordability Grant:
Alberta’s Affordability Grant is a provincial initiative designed to reduce childcare costs for families utilizing licensed programs. It applies automatically to eligible spaces, reducing out-of-pocket expenses without requiring families to submit applications.
Here’s what Calgary parents should know:
- Grants reduce fees by $450–$635/month per child, depending on age and program type.
- Available only through licensed childcare providers, such as Discovery Tots Dayhome.
- Can be combined with income-tested subsidies for further savings.
By choosing a licensed provider, you not only access enriched and secure childcare but also unlock meaningful financial relief that significantly offsets monthly costs.
What Sets Discovery Tots Apart in Terms of Value
Discovery Tots Dayhome Ltd. isn’t just another licensed childcare agency. We go beyond the basics, offering Calgary families tangible benefits that make every dollar count:
- Access to Alberta’s full childcare funding programs
- Flexible part-time and full-time care options
- Enrichment programs like music classes, puppy visits, and seasonal carnivals
- Professionally supported educators who focus on quality and engagement
- Licensed, regulated dayhomes that prioritize safety, consistency, and care
This combination of financial accessibility and high-quality programming ensures that families not only save but also receive more value from their childcare investment.
Budgeting Tips for Dayhomes in Calgary
Choosing childcare is not just about finding the lowest rate; it’s about understanding the long-term value. Here are a few budgeting tips Calgary parents can use:
- Compare licensed vs unlicensed rates, keeping in mind the eligibility for grants
- Factor in hidden costs like transportation, meals, and activity fees
- Prioritize programs that offer consistency and developmental enrichment
- Consider part-time schedules if your work or lifestyle permits
If affordability is a concern, Discovery Tots Dayhome Ltd. staff can help guide you through the funding landscape and assist with subsidy navigation.
Dayhome cost in Calgary is a significant consideration, but licensed options like Discovery Tots Dayhome Ltd. make quality care financially attainable. Through Alberta’s Affordability Grant and flexible scheduling, Calgary families can access trusted, enriching, and developmentally supportive care without exceeding their budgets.
To learn more about how Discovery Tots Dayhome Ltd. can support your family’s childcare needs, please fill out the form below.