Dayhome network warns new Alberta training rules may limit educator access

Alberta’s Dayhome Support Network is raising concerns about upcoming changes to the province’s professional development funding program, saying new eligibility rules could limit access to training for many early childhood educators.

The changes, part of the new Early Childhood Educator Workforce Supports Program, take effect April 1.

The network says the revised framework narrows the types of training that qualify for funding and raises eligibility thresholds, which may disproportionately affect Level 1 and Level 2 educators and those working in family dayhomes.

“These changes appear to go too far in the other direction,” said Danielle Bourdin, executive director of Alberta’s Dayhome Support Network. “We understand that the previous system had become overextended and needed adjustments to remain sustainable. However, the new criteria significantly limit the professional learning opportunities that many educators, especially dayhome providers, have relied on.”

Under the updated program, eligibility requirements will increase from a minimum of 29 hours worked in the sector to 720 hours of wage-top-up hours within the past two years. In addition, only a limited list of workshops and conferences will qualify for funding.

For Level 1 and Level 2 educators, approved workshops will focus primarily on Alberta’s Flight curriculum and must appear on a predetermined list of providers for the 2026–27 year.

The network says the changes effectively remove funding eligibility for many training opportunities tailored to the dayhome sector.

“Dayhome educators operate in a completely different environment than centre-based early childhood educators,” Bourdin said. “They run small businesses, care for mixed-age groups, and often work alone without daily peer support. Professional development that reflects these realities is essential for quality, sustainability, and educator well-being.”

The organization also points to participation data collected over several years, which shows enrolment drops when training is no longer subsidized.

“Dayhome operators are already working within tight financial constraints due to the $10-a-day program and agency fees,” Bourdin said. “Regular and ongoing professional development often becomes an expense they simply cannot absorb on their own.”

Beyond training, the network says professional development plays a role in reducing isolation and supporting retention in the sector.

“Professional development is not just about training, it’s about connection,” Bourdin said. “For many dayhome educators, these events are one of the few opportunities they have to connect with peers and feel part of a professional community.”

Since 2021, the network has offered free monthly professional development sessions for dayhome educators across Alberta, aimed at addressing gaps in access to training and resources.

It says it will continue to provide those sessions despite the funding changes.

The organization is urging the provincial government to remain open to feedback as the program is implemented.

“We hope the government will listen closely to the voices of the educators most impacted by these changes,” Bourdin said. “We believe there is still an opportunity to refine this program so it better reflects the needs of educators across Alberta.”