CHILD CARE
IN PICTOU COUNTY
Finding a person or a group of people who you can trust to look after your child is a big decision. Here in Pictou County, we have all kinds of wonderful, caring and professional child care providers to help you and your family. Regulated child care is licensed through the Government of Nova Scotia and administered through registered day care organizations. In Pictou County, we have two YMCA day care sites, as well as many privately-run day care businesses. Options are also available for in-home care for infants, toddlers, and after-school care for school-aged children. Many day cares offer flexible hours, which is especially welcomed by parents or guardians requiring early dropoffs, or later pick-ups. There are also a variety of preschools throughout the County to prepare your child for school, which for some, can go up to four years of age, as the Government of Nova Scotia introduced the Pre-Primary Program in the province. You may hear the term Early Childhood Educators or ECEs. These are certified child 34
PICTOU COUNTY, WELCOME HOME
care providers who have completed a four-year degree or two-year diploma program, and can be found in various day cares, and administering the pre-primary program in our schools. When the school bell rings, there are many after-school care options to choose from, whether in day care settings, in private homes, within local non-profits, or programming provided by our municipalities. Word of mouth is a powerful tool here! Many parents find great babysitter referrals through neighbours, friends or coworkers. Courses or certification aren’t required for babysitting jobs, but are helpful to some, especially teenagers looking to earn some extra income while spending time caring for children in the community. Many municipal units facilitate babysitting courses being offered through organizations like the YMCA, and the Red Cross of Canada.
LOOKING FOR IN-HOME CHILD CARE? The Nova Scotia Works office of Career Connections will work with you to find in-home care, and can create a confidential employer post to help you find the right fit.
KIDS FIRST Pictou County Kids First Family Resource in downtown New Glasgow delivers free programs and services to families with children ages 0-6 in Pictou County, as well as offering prenatal supports to pregnant women within the community.
TIP FROM THE LOCALS Depending on the age of your child and your day care of choice, there may be a wait list for placement. We recommend looking into child care as one of your priorities when considering a relocation.