If you have a topic in mind, use the search below to quickly find all our related information and articles.
Choosing a service
![Two educators talking](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lub3vw8r/production/ca1a370d6bb85efdf5d8b2e361efd7c61e739387-5016x2822.png)
This article is a brief guide to the assessment and rating process for approved early childhood education and care services across Australia.
How to support your child through early childhood education and care
![](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lub3vw8r/production/d2339a1f617dd91eb6a35dc66c76273c8d46cb58-1870x1052.png)
Starting at a service can be an emotional experience for you and your child. Children may experience difficulty settling into a new environment, particularly if they find it hard to separate from family or familiar caregivers.
Health and safety in services
![Child applying sunblock](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lub3vw8r/production/072f05e851c46ebe878d1cb940c25c5a059fac15-6928x3897.png)
The National Quality Standard aims to safeguard and promote children’s health and safety, minimise risks and protect children from harm, injury and infection.
Educational programs
![Child playing outdoors](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lub3vw8r/production/b9850bdb6570db6f6d71a6cf1dcb6d5a5ef1b195-600x337.jpg)
Quality programs for children preschool age and under in services such as long day care, family day care or preschool/kindergarten settings, are developed in ways that take into account each child’s interests, ideas, strengths, experiences, culture and needs.
Types of services
![Boy outdoors on tricycle](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lub3vw8r/production/09bb1d49dd3780413d4357aac191d269f12af0e9-1303x726.png)
If you’re trying to decide between a Family Day Care and a Long Day Care service, this information might be helpful
What to expect
![Two children playing outdoors with balloon](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lub3vw8r/production/49f898e936128b249d44095496b89b1c8bc2ffb3-2001x1126.png)
In an early learning and preschool, what your child wears may also influence your child’s health, safety, comfort, and wellbeing.