Glossary of Childcare Terms
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Drop-In: Schools/programs that offer a limited time enrollment. This could possibly mean anywhere from a few hours to a few days, to suit your needs.

Nursery/Half-Day: Usually this centre will accept children ages 2.5-5 years. Centres are usually closed during the summer months. Class time is usually approximately 2 hours long and there is usually a choice of either morning program or afternoon program.

Computers Available: This typically will indicate that the centre offers computer access for the children or computer classes/lessons.

Special Needs: This centre will accept children with special needs, (developmental, physical or emotional). A resource teacher may also be involved/available.

Before & After School: This centre accepts children who are in elementary school full-time ( age 6-12) and offer care/activities for these children before and after regular school hours.

Extended Hours: A centre may offer extended hours if they are typically different hours than most centres usually offer (ie. 6:00 or 6:30 am opening time or 6:30 pm closing time.).

French: A centre that offers French language in their program.

Infant Program: A centre that offers spaces for children from birth to 18 months.

Summer Camp: A centre that offers a special program for children during the summer months. Some centres will also offer this to school- age children (6-12 yrs.)

Montessori: Generally based on the teachings of Maria Montessori. The Montessori curriculum focuses on practical life exercises, sensorial materials, mathematics, culture subjects, art, music language, computers & French.

Subsidy: Financial assistance given to parents (who qualify), at centres that have a 'purchase of service' agreement with the community and social services organization.

Private Schools: Centres run by a private for-profit corporation. They are also licensed and regulated.

Co-operative Schools: Are centres whereby parents participate in the planning and daily functions of that centre.

Licensed Home Child Care: Care that is offered in a caregivers home, but is licensed & regulated by the Ministry of Community and Social Services.

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