Choosing the right service is an exciting time for you and your child. It’s important to consider your options early and research the type of early childhood education and care that will suit your family.
There are many education and care options available to suit the needs of your child and your family:
Centre-based care (also known as Long day care)
Centre-based care, or long day care is perfect for those who work long days and need care for their children during business hours. It operates for at least 8 hours a day, typically Monday to Friday in an early childhood education centre and caters for children, from birth to school age.
Family day care
Family day care is great for parents who want their children to learn and play in small groups, in a homelike environment. It caters for children, birth to 12 years and is held in the home of a registered educator.
Preschool Services
Preschool usually caters for children aged three to five years and is perfect for parents with children who are almost ready for primary school. Sometimes known as kindergarten, it can be a standalone service or part of another education and care service or school.
Outside School Hours Care
Outside school hours care operates before and after school and/or during school holidays. This service works well for parents with school age children, who need care outside of school hours.
Other services not regulated under the National Quality Framework (NQF)
Occasional Child Care
Occasional child care works on a casual basis for short periods of time. It caters for children, birth to school age and suits those who would like or need a temporary service.
In Home Care
The In Home Care (IHC) program provides access to Government subsidised early childhood education and care in the family home. The program supports families who are unable to access other mainstream child care options such as those who work non-standard hours, are geographically isolated or have families with challenging and complex needs.
Mobile Services
Mobile services travel through communities to offer occasional, preschool or long day care services in rural, urban and remote areas. It generally caters for children up to six years old, and is great for parents who live too far away from an early education and care service.
Other Informal Care Options
There is a wide range of other informal care options available, including family, friends, babysitters and nannies. These types of services are flexible and rely heavily on the family’s needs. They are generally run in a home and operating times may vary.