Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Due to an ongoing number of non-compliances, in violation of Alberta’s child-care legislation, Baby Steps Early Learning Center in Slave Lake will be closed at the end of the day June 12, 2025.
Since a probationary licence was issued on March 13, Alberta’s government has worked with the provider and program staff through enhanced monitoring to support them in returning to compliance with provincial legislation.
Given ongoing concerns and unresolved issues, Baby Steps Early Learning Center’s licence will not be reinstated. The provider is responsible for notifying parents affected by the closure of the program.
Anyone needing to report an incident or concerns about a child-care program in their community is encouraged to call Child Care Connect toll-free at 1-844-644-5165.
Information on child-care program closures can be found on the Finding and Choosing Child Care web page (link below).
Licence reinstatement refusals
The vast majority of child-care providers and educators in Alberta are committed to the safety and well-being of the children in their care.
If a licensed child-care program is unable to meet the standards set out by Alberta’s government, it can be subject to enforcement action, including suspension of its licence and probation. Through continued monitoring, further enforcement up to and including cancellation of a licence can occur if the level of risk continues or escalates.
If the licensed child-care program does not return to compliance during the probationary period, the suspended licence expires and its licence is not reinstated.
Quick facts
- Alberta Education and Childcare monitors licensed child-care programs across the province and takes appropriate actions to ensure safety and compliance with the Early Learning and Child Care Act and Regulation.
- A licence holder who is subject to a decision respecting their licence may request, within 30 days of the decision, an administrative review, alternative dispute resolution or an appeal to bring forward concerns regarding a licensing decision, up to and including cancellation.
- Alternative child-care options can be found online through the Child Care Lookup tool.
Related information
- Child Care Lookup tool
- Finding and choosing child care
- Early Learning and Child Care Act
- Child care licensing – How to appeal