Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions? We’ve listed some of the most common ones below.
Still wondering about something? Just head over to our Contact Page — we’re happy to help!
Registration and Enrolment Requirements
What happens if I'm on the waitlist?
To ensure a fair registration process, we maintain and follow a strict, ordered waiting list. When the registrar contacts you by phone or email about an available spot, you will have 48 hours to respond. If no response is received within that time, the next family on the list will be contacted.
Starting from the first day of public and separate elementary school (typically just after the September long weekend), the response time shortens to 24 hours. Once playschool classes begin, internal class moves may take priority over the waitlist.
Please provide accurate contact information for both summer and the school year. It is your responsibility to check messages regularly. The registrar is not responsible for holding a spot if your voicemail is full or emails bounce back and a message cannot be delivered.
Do I need a community league membership?
Yes. All families are required to hold a valid community league membership for each playschool year. You will be asked to provide your membership number no later than September 15.
If a membership is not obtained by this date, unfortunately, your child will be withdrawn from the program.
Can my child attend if we don’t live in the Riverbend community?
Yes — as long as your family holds a valid community league membership within Edmonton.
Admission to Riverbend Playschool is based on the following priorities:
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Current playschool families (with a child currently enrolled)
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Alumni families (those who have had children attend in the past)
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Members of Riverbend community leagues (Rhatigan Ridge, Ramsay Heights, Brookside, and Brander Gardens)
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Members of any other Edmonton community league
Can my child meet the teachers before classes start?
Yes! We host an annual open house before playschool registration, usually in January or February. It’s a great opportunity to visit the classroom and meet the teachers in person.
How old does my child have to be?
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3-year-old program: Children must be 3 years old on or before December 31 of the school year they are attending.
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3 & 4-year-old program: Children must be 3 years old on or before December 31 of the attending school year.
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4-year-old program: Children must be 4 years old on or before December 31 of the attending school year.
What if my child is not potty trained?
Children must be toilet trained when playschool begins in September, as our operating licence does not allow us to accept children in diapers.
However, special circumstances — such as a child with specific needs — may be considered on an individual basis. These cases require approval from both the teachers and the playschool executive.
Playschool Fees
What are the fees?
For the 2026/2027 registration year, monthly tuition rates will be as follows:
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Two days per week: $95.00/month
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Three days per week: $125.00/month
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Five days per week: $215.00/month
In addition to monthly tuition, each family will be required to pay the following annual fees:
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$100 non-refundable registration fee
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$300 annual administrative and cleaning fee
The $300 annual fee helps cover essential non-instructional costs that are not included in monthly tuition, such as administrative operations, bookkeeping and reporting requirements, licensing compliance, professional cleaning services, sanitation and cleaning supplies, and the general upkeep of our shared spaces.
If affordability is a concern, please let us know as payment options can be arranged.
Please note: the annual fee does not replace or exempt families from required fundraising or casino obligations. Families are still expected to participate in assigned casino duties during casino years and to submit a duty bond cheque as outlined in our policies. These fundraising efforts are essential to supporting the playschool and helping keep tuition increases to a minimum.
Parental Involvement Requirements
Do I have to volunteer in the classroom during class hours?
No. While Riverbend Playschool previously required parents to assist on scheduled "duty days," this is no longer mandatory in order to register. This change was made to help increase accessibility for all families.
That said, there are still opportunities to volunteer in the classroom if you’re interested — just check in with your child’s teachers.
Please note: All parents are still required to complete the volunteer commitment outlined in their assigned Parent Job.
Do I have to fundraise?
Riverbend Playschool is primarily funded through tuition and casino proceeds. In casino years (held every two years), each family must provide one volunteer to work a casino shift — this is a required part of enrollment.
In addition to the casino, we run a few small fundraising events throughout the year. While participation in these is not mandatory, we truly appreciate any support from our families and their communities — every bit helps!
In the Classroom
Why does playschool finish in May?
Over the years, our teachers have noticed a clear pattern: as spring arrives, days get longer, activities pick up, and our little 3- and 4-year-olds start to burn out. By wrapping up the school year in May, students are more likely to finish on a positive and happy note.
Additionally, our classroom is rented from the Riverbend Community League, which begins its own programming in the space starting in June.
Does the playschool offer transportation for pick-up and drop-off?
No, transportation is not provided. Parents are responsible for arranging their child’s drop-off and pick-up each day.
What should I send my child to school with?
Being prepared helps your child stay comfortable and enjoy their day to the fullest. Please pack a bag each day that includes:
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Indoor shoes
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A full change of clothes
Also, make sure your child is dressed for the weather — we aim to go outside every day!
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In winter: snow suits, mittens, and warm hats
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On rainy days: rubber boots and raincoats
Does the playschool provide snacks?
No, children must bring their own snack each school day (unless otherwise noted). Snacks should be small and nutritious. Teachers will provide guidance on healthy snack ideas and let families know about any prohibited foods, such as nuts.
What if my child cries at drop-off?
It’s completely normal for children to feel a little sad at goodbye time. In most cases, they settle in quickly — often within a few minutes — with the help of a few hugs and some encouragement from the teachers.
If you have concerns about separation anxiety, feel free to speak with the teachers. They’re happy to offer suggestions and keep you updated on how your child is doing.