Childcare – Alternative dispute resolution

Overview

Licence holders can use alternative dispute resolution if they disagree with a decision made by authorized licensing staff. This is the least formal option and can be initiated for any type of decision related to a licence. Alternative dispute resolution can occur:

• before or after an administrative review
• before a formal appeal through an Appeal Panel

Information shared during administrative dispute resolution, whether verbal or written, is confidential unless it falls under legal disclosure requirements (see the Early Learning and Child Care Act, Section 18.95(3)). 

Steps to follow

To begin the alternative resolution process, contact licensing staff at [email protected]. They can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Reach out to them if you have questions or concerns, or if you disagree with a decision that has been made regarding your licensed program. Alternative dispute resolution may involve the following steps.

Step 1. Discussion with your licensing officer

• ask why the decision was made
• explain why you disagree
• try to reach a mutual understanding
• if no resolution is reached, the licensing officer will refer the matter to their supervisor, who will contact you for further discussion

Step 2: Discussion with a licensing supervisor

• discuss why the decision was made and why you disagree
• the supervisor may arrange a meeting with you, the licensing officer, and the regional childcare manager
• if the issue remains unresolved, staff will explain your options for administrative review or formal appeal, including timelines

Resources

• Early Learning and Child Care Act (Part 3)
• Early Learning and Child Care Regulation (Part 4)
• Licensing handbook for facility-based programs
• Licensing handbook for family day home agencies
• Family Day Home Standards Manual for Alberta