Government Of Saskatchewan Encourages Home-Based Child Care Providers To Become Regulated

Released on November 25, 2021

The Government of Saskatchewan is encouraging unregulated home-based child care providers to become regulated with the Ministry of Education to allow more families to access significantly reduced out-of-pocket child care fees.

"We have a quick and easy process for home-based child care providers to become regulated," Education Minister Dustin Duncan said. "We encourage unregulated providers to register with the Ministry of Education so they can qualify for additional funds to lower fees for the families they support."

On November 19, 2021, the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced funding will be provided to regulated facilities only through a fee reduction grant that will reduce parents' out-of-pocket child care fees by about half on average, retroactive to July 1, 2021.

Regulated home-based child care providers operate child care services in a personal home under requirements that support the health, safety and well-being of children as well as their growth and development. There are few barriers to becoming a regulated home-based provider. For those who operate out of their home, an initial fire inspection and regular heating inspections are required to ensure the environment is safe and welcoming for children.

"I have been able to stay home and raise my daughter and have an interesting career at the same time," regulated home-based child care provider Katherine Pulice said. "This is the most rewarding job I have ever had. Every child in your care is unique. Every day is different. This is a job that is never, ever boring."

Home-based providers who become regulated may also have access to grant money to help with start-up and food costs, training and workshops, and assistance from educated child care consultants. Upon becoming regulated, these child care providers will be eligible to receive grants to reduce parent fees for the families they serve retroactive to the date of (receipt of the complete) application.

Unregulated providers who wish to become regulated can complete an online Family Child Care Home Initial Licensing Information Session before they submit an application. Priority for regulation will be provided to currently operating unregulated homes. More details on the application process can be found on saskatchewan.ca at www.saskatchewan.ca/business/entrepreneurs-start-or-exit-a-business/start-a-business/managing-a-child-care-business/start-a-licensed-family-child-care-home#how-to-apply.

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