Good to know before the first day.

Practical answers to the questions that tend to matter once childcare becomes part of real family life.

What if my child is sick?

Children should stay home when they cannot comfortably participate in the normal day or when illness requires exclusion from care. Please let STEPS know as early as reasonably possible.

What should my child bring?

Diapers, wipes and creams when required; weather-appropriate clothing; a comfort or sleep item when helpful; and any specialized medication, food or care supplies.

Are meals included?

Yes. Meals and snacks are included. Children may also bring food from home if they prefer. Allergy and dietary information should stay current.

Who can pick up my child?

Parents maintain authorized pickup people and emergency contacts as part of their family information and should update STEPS promptly when permissions change.

What about holidays or closures?

Planned closures and schedule changes are communicated in advance.

How does communication work?

Enrolled families have a private STEPS account for messages, booking decisions, child information and Daily Care updates.

What about emergencies?

Enrollment collects emergency contacts, health information and parent permissions so STEPS has the information needed to respond appropriately.

What does home-based mean?

Care takes place in a private home setting with ordinary household features, routines, indoor/outdoor play and the normal realities of family life.

For enrolled families

Useful information, not buried paperwork.

Family information, child care details, emergency contacts, permissions and the STEPS Family Guide are interactive and updateable inside the parent account.

Child profile

Allergies, food preferences, care notes, emergency information and pickups.

Family readiness

Guided enrollment and permissions with visible completion progress.

Daily connection

Messages, booking updates and Daily Care stay connected to the family account.