About AELCS

Accreditation of Early Learning and Care Services (AELCS) is a not-for-profit organization, funded and contracted by Alberta Children and Youth Services to deliver accreditation services to child care programs and out-of-school care programs that have engaged in an intensive self-study of their practices. Our role is to assess child care programs and out-of-school care programs against quality standards of care.

We accredit licensed child care centres, out-of-school care progams,  and contracted family child care agencies that meet either the Alberta Child Care Accreditation Program (ACCAP) Quality Standards or the Alberta Out-of-School Care Program (AOSCAP) Quality Standards.

  ACCAP Standards for Child Care Centres

  ACCAP Quality Standards for Family Child Care Agencies  

  AOSCAP Quality Standards for Out-of-School Care Programs

The purpose of the accreditation initiative in Alberta is to raise the standard of child care (ages 0-12) in the province and improve best practices in early learning and child care services. Accreditation supports families through the identification of quality child care.

Research has consistently shown that the provision of high quality care is linked to beneficial outcomes for children, families and the community.

The accreditation process has enormous potential to enhance the quality of child care and out-of-school care services and strengthen the capacity of families, staff, administrators and communities to work together towards better outcomes for children.

 

Mission Statement

‘To promote and recognize standards of excellence in Early Learning and Care Services through research, education and evaluation.'
   

Vision Statement

‘An accreditation system that ensures children, families and professionals excellence in Early Learning and Care Services.'
   

AELCS Disclaimer

The accreditation credential is awarded based on the information and evidence gathered at a specific point in time during a site visit. It is expected that programs will maintain their quality status; therefore, AELCS will not accept responsibility for any changes that occur within a program or agency that affect the provision of quality child care after a site visit has taken place. AELCS accepts no liability for any actions of an accredited program or agency.