FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you licensed?

Yes. We are licensed by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.  Our license is posted in our lobby for everyone to see.

What is the cost?

Toddler & Preschool fees are $21.75

Before & After School fees are $17.70

School break fees are $21.95

How long is the wait list?

Our wait list is always changing as families’ needs shift, so while we can’t give an exact time, we’ll reach out as soon as a space becomes available for your child.

Can we tour before accepting a space?

Yes. We offer tours, at the administration’s convenience Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am and 11:00am.

What are the ages of children in your centre?

18 months to 12 years

How close is the center to a public transit bus stop?

The bus stops on St. Margaret’s Bay Road near Beechville Park Drive.

How many children are there in each class or age group?

Toddler rooms = 12 children (18 months to 3 years)

Preschool rooms = 16 children (3 - 5 years)

School-age room = 30 children (5-12 years)

Can I get a part time space?

Yes, but only for school age children enrolled in the before and after school program

Programs & Enrollment

What programs do you offer?

We provide high-quality care for Toddlers (18–36 months), Preschoolers (ages 3–5), and School-Age children. Our school-age program includes before- and after-school care, PD day care, and snow day care.

How do I register my child?

Families can join our waitlist anytime. When a spot opens, we’ll contact you to complete registration forms.

Do you accept childcare subsidies?

Yes. Beech Tree Academy is a licensed center and accepts government subsidies for eligible families.

My child does not understand or speak English. Is this a problem?

We support and provide an inclusive environment for our staff and children. The staff will do their very best to communicate with your child both verbally and non-verbally in order to help them learn the English language. Most children learn English very quickly.

Daily Routine & Care

What is the educator-to-child ratio?

One educator with 6 toddlers 

One educator with 8 preschoolers

One educator with 15 school-agers

What does a typical day look like?

Children enjoy a balance of free play, teacher-guided activities, outdoor time, and creative learning experiences. Each day also includes a quiet rest period after lunch.

Will my child have outdoor play time?

Yes.  Typically 1.5 hours in the morning and 1.5 in the afternoon.

We have a minimum of 45 minutes in the morning and the afternoon.

Do children nap or rest during the day?

Yes. Between 12:30am to 2:30pm.

Does my child need to be toilet trained?

No. We support children at their own pace.

What clothing or supplies should I send with my child?

Your child will need a small blanket, a complete change of clothing, a water bottle and any diapers they may require.  A sunhat in the summer, and appropriate outdoor winter clothing for colder days are needed as children are required to go outdoors every day.

Nutrition & Meals

Do you provide meals and snacks?

Yes. We serve nutritious snacks and a hot lunch daily, prepared fresh and aligned with Canada’s Food Guide. Menus are shared with families in advance.

What if my child has food allergies or severe food sensitivities?

We have a number of children with varying allergies and each one has different needs. Simply make the centre aware of your child’s allergies and we will discuss your child’s needs.

Hours, Fees & Holidays

What are your hours of operation?

We’re open Monday to Friday, 7:00 am – 5:30 pm.

What holidays is the centre closed for?

New Year’s Day - January

Heritage Day – 3rd Monday of February 

Good Friday - Varies between March or April

Easter Monday - Varies between March or April

Victoria Day – Monday before May 25th 

Canada Day – July 1st

Natal Day – 1st Monday of August

Labour Day – 1st Monday of September

Truth and Reconciliation Day - September 30th

Thanksgiving Day - 2nd Monday of October

Remembrance Day – November 11th 

Christmas Day – December 25th

Boxing Day – December 26th

Are there any extra fees beyond regular tuition?

Registration fee:  To hold your child’s space, a $300 non-refundable deposit is required within 3 business days of accepting the spot, or it may be offered to another family.  The deposit is applied to your first month’s fees, and is only refundable if you cancel in writing at least 2 months before your child’s start date.

Music and Movement program: participation is optional in a weekly program with an accredited therapist ($30 a month).

What happens if I am late picking up my child?

We close at 5:30 p.m. 

A late fee of $5.00  is charged for each minute past 5:30 pm.  This is charged to your monthly fees.

What are my fees if my child is sick or we go on vacation?

You are responsible for fees the entire time your child is registered with Beech Tree Academy, and not just the days they attend.

How can I apply for childcare subsidy?

https://childcarenovascotia.ca/families/child-care-subsidy

The Child Care Subsidy Program helps eligible families by paying for a portion of their child care fees charged by licensed child care facilities, approved family home child care agencies, and approved Nova Scotia Before and After Programs

Parent Communication

How do I communicate with my child’s educator?
How will I know how my child is doing during the day?

We use the parent platform Lillio to share updates, photos, and daily reports. Families also receive newsletters and can chat directly with teachers at drop-off and pick-up.

Careers & Placements

How can I apply to work or do a student placement at Beech Tree Academy?

We welcome applications from qualified Early Childhood Educators and students. Please visit our Careers page or contact us for current opportunities.