28Apr
One of the most positive things parents can do for their young children is to enrol them in an early learning centre. Throughout Australia, there are numerous early education facilities, so you’re sure to find one that’s a good fit near you.
Before enrolling your child in any form of daycare, it’s important to know what to look for in an early education centre and what to expect.
#1 – What Age Should Your Child Start Daycare?
What is the best age to start daycare? Is there a minimum age for daycare?
The answer to the second question largely depends on the requirements set out by the centre itself and centres can vary when it comes to the ages they accept. Preschool age is often considered the best age to commence daycare and early education, between the ages of 3 to 5, but many centres cater to toddlers as well.
If you’re unsure at what age you should consider starting your child, maybe talk with other parents of young children or have some discussions with an early education centre near you. Also, be sure to check the centre’s age requirements.
Also read: Why Cultural Diversity Is Important In Early Childhood Education
#2 – Does the Centre Offer a School Readiness Program?
A quality early learning centre will have a school readiness program in place. What’s a school readiness program?
It’s a curriculum designed to prepare preschool-aged children for the school years to come. An important part of that preparation is to give kids a grounding in academic subjects such as English, math and science, among other subjects. Academics only form a part of the school readiness program, as it’s also about building a child’s confidence through developing social and communication skills, learning how to mix with other kids and adults and a whole lot more.
By the time your child has been through a school readiness program, they’ll be more than ready to face the primary school years and excel.
Related: Childhood Development and The Impact of Early Education and Child Care
#3 – Is the Vibe Of the Centre Positive and Friendly?
You want your child to feel as comfortable as possible when attending an early education daycare centre. In fact, you’ll want your child to look forward to going each day.
Before choosing a centre, spend some time there chatting with the staff and simply observing. Take note of the vibe of the place and whether the kids look like they are relaxed, comfortable and having a good time. Also, observe the interaction between the carers and the children to determine if it’s positive or not.
#4 – What Does the Centre’s Curriculum Of Activities Look Like?
You’ll first want to put some thought into what you want your child to experience and learn at an early education centre. Once you have a fair idea, visit a centre and ask to take a look at their curriculum to see if it matches up with your desires and expectations.
You’ll want to enrol your child in a centre that offers a well-rounded curriculum of activities so your child receives the utmost in both personal and physical development.
Related: 6 Important Things Children Can Learn In Childcare
#5 – Will Your Child Learn About Nutrition?
Learning about nutrition at an early age is vital if kids are to grow up to be strong and healthy adults. We are what we eat and kids need to understand why it’s important to indulge in a nutritious diet. Often, parents can struggle to get their children to eat food that’s good for them, particularly vegetables, but it can prove easier for staff at an early learning centre to educate kids on the value of healthy eating and the advantages of it. Choose a centre that focuses on good nutrition as part of the agenda.
Also read: 5 Effective Ways Parents Can Boost a Child’s Self-Confidence
#6 – Will Your Child Have Fun?
Once again, the best way to determine this is to do some observing, as well as looking over the list of regular activities. Your child will get the most out of the experience if they are having a good time every day they attend the centre.
Endeavour Early Education
Endeavour Early Education facilities offer a safe and secure environment, as well as a well-rounded curriculum of activities. We also have a comprehensive school readiness program to prepare children for the school years. Get in touch today and learn more about what our centres have to offer.
