Lifelong learning begins the moment we are born. The first six years of our lives are a time of unparalleled discovery. We learn about ourselves and the world around us. Our personalities take shape and we begin to lay the foundation of knowledge that will support us as we enter the education system. 

Services, supports and programs for young children and their families are primarily provided by three areas of the Government of Alberta: Alberta Education, Alberta Human Services and Alberta Health. 

Alberta Education is responsible for Early Childhood Services (ECS). ECS are educational programs for children under the age of 6 and includes Kindergarten, the year before Grade One and educational programming for children as young as 2½ years old.

Alberta Human Services is responsible for Parent Link Centres, Child Care, Licensed Preschool, Family Supports for Children with Disabilities and other supports in partnership with communities through programs offered by Family and Community Support Services.

Alberta Health provides primary and preventative health care from the prenatal stage, through the early years and into adolescence and adulthood.

The three ministries work together to plan for and deliver the many early childhood programs, supports and services needed to support young children and their families.