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resources / children and services

Attending a service

On this page, you’ll find information and guides on children and services, from how to choose a suitable service to what to expect when your child enrols.

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
The assessment and rating process

This article is a brief guide to the assessment and rating process for approved early childhood education and care services across Australia.

Last updated: March 26, 24
Service quality ratings
Last updated: September 3, 24
The assessment and rating process
Last updated: March 26, 24

How to support your child through early childhood education and care

How can you help your child settle in?

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.

Last updated: April 15, 24
Transition to school
Last updated: September 15, 24
How can you help your child settle in?
Last updated: April 15, 24
Challenging behaviour: biting
Last updated: March 25, 24
Supporting children during transitions
Last updated: February 16, 24

Health and safety in services

Managing illnesses in services

The National Quality Standard aims to safeguard and promote children’s health and safety, minimise risks and protect children from harm, injury and infection.

Last updated: September 4, 24
What should I see on display at my service?
Last updated: September 4, 24
Managing illnesses in services
Last updated: September 4, 24
How services ensure good hygiene
Last updated: September 4, 24
Taking images
Last updated: July 12, 24

Educational programs

How outdoor play supports your child’s learning

Outdoor play has many benefits for your child's learning and development. This resource explains why outdoor play is encouraged in children's education and care services, and provides tips for outdoor play at home.

Last updated: August 20, 24
What is STEM and why is it important?
Last updated: July 24, 24

Types of services

Boy outdoors on tricycle
Choosing between Family Day Care and Long Day Care

If you’re trying to decide between a Family Day Care and a Long Day Care service, this information might be helpful

Last updated: September 5, 24
Choosing a quality service
Last updated: February 11, 24

What to expect

Two children playing outdoors with balloon
What children wear to early childhood education and care

In an early learning and preschool, what your child wears may also influence your child’s health, safety, comfort, and wellbeing.

Last updated: February 16, 24
How services support good nutrition
Last updated: April 4, 24

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ACECQA acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledge their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the Elders past and present.