Choosing The Best Child Care In Lane Cove
Expect to be spoilt
for choice when exploring childcare in Lane Cove, North Ryde, Chatswood and
other suburbs in the greater Sydney area. You will come across a good
number of childcare centres that go above and beyond expectations to deliver an
exceptional level of care and early learning experiences.
If you’re a parent or
guardian looking for quality childcare in any of these areas, I've put together
this guide to help you find a quality childcare centre. Here are the top six
things you should consider when choosing a childcare centre:
1. Centre Location And Childcare Cost
Make a list of all
the childcare centres within Lane cove and surrounding suburbs. Contact each of
them to obtain their daily, monthly, or annual fees and any extra costs.
Additional costs might include catering, special events or even waiting list
fees.
Don’t make a decision
on price alone, but take into account proximity to your home and workplace.
Would it be more convenient to have a centre closer to where you live or work?
For example, if you
live around the city of Ryde, then a childcare centre in North Ryde would be a
better option for you.
2.Educator Training, Qualifications
And Staffing Levels
Assessing the
training and education level of the childcare providers is a good place to
start when comparing daycare centres. Does the centre have a good mix of
young and experienced senior childcare professionals? Do they have the energy,
enthusiasm and flexibility needed to cope with all types of children?
3.Healthy Children’s Menus And
Allergy Awareness Programs
Healthy menus equal
healthy minds. As children take on the big step of attending childcare or
preschool, it’s important that they are served healthy meals that keep their
energy levels steady.
A growing number of
facilities that provide child care in Chatswood, North Ryde, and Lane Cove
offer healthy eating initiatives including in-house chefs, kitchen gardens, and
edible gardening programs.
Food allergies are
also an increasing concern for parents of young children, so it’s important to
have educated kitchen staff who understand food allergies and have in place a
management plan for food allergies and similar complications.
4. Curriculum and engagement programs
The Early Years Learning
Framework guides childcare providers on the principles, practices, and outcomes
that support and enhance early learning from birth to age five, and the
transition period into school.
This framework is
used to construct the curriculum and engagement programs at childcare centres
and preschools. These programs should encourage children to learn, interact and
develop through child-centred play and learning activities.
Ask about the program
inclusions to learn more. Choose a program that reflects your family values and
the interests, needs and personality of your child.
5. Modern Infrastructure And
Up-to-date Childcare Management Technology
Professional, caring
and engaging staff are more important than having the latest play equipment,
but take note of the age and condition of the centre’s infrastructure.
You’ll want to look for a centre that is well equipped with safe and modern
infrastructure and learning resources.
6. Underlying Objectives
Before you begin your
search for the right childcare centre, ask yourself why you are looking for the
care in the first place. This will help guide you to the right type of service.
The type of childcare
may differ depending on your overall objective. For example, if you are looking
for someone to look after your child for an hour or two whilst you run errands,
long daycare may not be the most appropriate service. Family, friends, a
babysitter or perhaps an occasional care centre may be the best option.
On the other hand, if
you are looking to provide early education for your kids, then daycare centre
may be a better option.
Other options
include:
- Family Day Care
- Occasional Care
- Out of School Hours Care
- Informal care via friends & family
- Nanny Service
- Au Pair
While all these may
sound overwhelming, it is important that you observe each of the aspects we
have discussed when searching for the best childcare. In summary, consider the
location, cost, childcare provider qualification and experience, curriculum,
infrastructure, and your underlying objectives. Don’t forget to also check out
their policies, especially with regards to parent visits and medical
emergencies.
All the best in your
search for the best childcare in Lane Cove!
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