Alberta childcare facilities must disclose high-risk incidents within one day
New provincial rule requires daycare centers to post notices when potentially criminal incidents are reported, beginning June 1. One Calgary facility issued a probationary license for safety failures.
Starting June 1, all licensed childcare facilities in Alberta must post on-site notices within one business day after a high-risk incident is reported, with details also appearing on the government's public website.
The move follows pressure from parents demanding greater transparency after safety lapses at some facilities. Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides said the government is exploring permanent solutions that may require legislative changes, including requiring operators to notify parents directly via phone or email — something not currently mandated.
"We heard loud and clear that more needed to be done," Nicolaides said in an interview with Postmedia.
On Wednesday, the province issued a probationary license to Fit Kids Care in Calgary after the facility showed ongoing non-compliance issues including inadequate supervision, failure to report incidents, and improper child guidance. The probationary status expires September 2.
Alberta NDP critic Diana Batten called the change a step forward but said stronger action is needed. "When issues do arise, it is important that children are protected and that parents receive clear and timely information," she said.
Most childcare providers in Alberta meet or exceed provincial quality standards, according to officials.