STARTING CHILDCARE
A new place.
A supported beginning.
You know your child best. The first conversations with your centre help the team understand what matters to your family.
Start with your family’s needs.
Think about the location, days of care and starting date you are considering. Then explore the centre’s environments, learning experiences and communication with families.
Availability can change. Contact the centre rather than relying on a website to confirm a place or guarantee a start date.
Bring your questions on a tour.
Ask which room your child would join, how the team approaches settling in, and what a typical day looks like. Talk about meals, rest, toileting, comfort items and how updates are shared.
It is also a good time to ask about fees, session options, activities, transport where relevant and any information needed for enrolment.
Share the little things that help.
A favourite book, a familiar routine or a comfort item can be useful things for educators to know. Let the centre know how your child communicates their needs and what helps them feel comfortable.
Ask the team about its orientation process and how you can stay in touch during the early days. Settling in is an individual experience, not a timetable every child has to follow.
Questions from families
What should I bring on the first day?
Ask your chosen centre for its current checklist. Requirements can differ by room and centre, so we have not published a universal packing list.
Can I check in during the day?
Discuss the centre’s communication process with your team. Ask who to contact, how updates are shared and what works for your family.
Does joining a waitlist guarantee a place?
No place or start date should be assumed until the centre confirms it with you. The team can explain the next steps for your enquiry.