With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming. You want to ensure that your child’s early learning experience is enriching, supportive, and aligned with your family’s values.
At St Nicholas Early Education, we understand that choosing the right environment for your child is essential to their growth and development. This guide will help you navigate the process of finding the best centre near you, ensuring that your child receives the care and support they deserve.
Consider your family’s needs
Before you begin your search, take a moment to consider your family’s needs. Think about the factors that matter most to you and your child, such as:
- Hours of operation: Do you need a centre with flexible hours to suit your work schedule, or are standard hours more suitable?
- Location: Look for a centre that’s close to your home or workplace to make drop-offs and pick-ups more convenient.
- Cost: Understand your budget and explore options that provide value for money, as well as any financial assistance like the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
- Age range of children: Is the centre equipped to support children in the age group you need (e.g. nursery, toddlers, preschoolers)?
- Type of care: Are you looking for long day care, preschool, or a combination of both?
- Programs and activities: Does the centre offer programs that foster learning and creativity, aligned with your child’s developmental needs?
- Schools: Does the centre have any connections with local schools? As part of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, St Nicholas Early Education offers families a connected educational pathway, with priority enrolment at Catholic Schools and a smooth transition from early childhood to primary education, supported by our highly regarded Transition to School program for preschool children.
Research your options
With your priorities in mind, start researching local options. Ask family, friends, and colleagues for recommendations. As you research, you can explore St Nicholas Early Education’s range of services, which are designed to offer high-quality early childhood care in a safe, supportive environment.
Take the time to read about the different programs available at local centres and compare their educational philosophies. Does the centre provide a curriculum that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional development? Is it aligned with your own parenting style and values?
Book a tour
Once you’ve identified a few centres that meet your needs, it’s time to visit them in person. At St Nicholas Early Education, we offer the opportunity to tour our centres and meet with our friendly team of educators, so you can see firsthand how we support children’s learning.
During your visit, observe the environment and the interactions between educators and children. Is the space warm and engaging? Do the educators seem approachable, knowledgeable, and passionate about working with children? These are key factors in determining whether a centre is the right fit for your child.
Ask the right questions
Asking the right questions is crucial to understanding how a centre operates. Here are some questions you may want to ask when visiting:
- What is the educator-to-child ratio? (A lower ratio ensures that each child receives personalised attention.)
- What does a typical day look like? (This will give you insight into the types of experiences and routines your child will experience.)
- How does the centre keep parents informed about their child’s development? (At St Nicholas Early Education, we believe in maintaining strong communication with families through authentic and accessible methods.)
Our centres are committed to providing regular updates to parents and offering ongoing support to meet the individual needs of each child.
Trust your instincts
After touring centres and asking questions, trust your instincts. Pay attention to how you feel when you walk through the doors. Does the environment feel welcoming, safe, and nurturing? Are the educators attentive and engaged with the children? Do the children appear happy, engaged, and confident?
At St Nicholas Early Education, we create environments where children flourish. Our team works closely with families to ensure that each child’s unique needs are met and that they feel supported in their learning journey.
Review fees and subsidies
The cost of early education is an important consideration for many families. When reviewing potential centres, be sure to ask about their fees and any available subsidies. Many families are eligible for government assistance, such as the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), which can help reduce costs – up to 90% subsidised.
At St Nicholas Early Education, we offer competitive pricing and are committed to helping families access the financial support they need. Our team is available to discuss fee structures and subsidy options to ensure you find a solution that fits your budget.
To estimate how much Child Care Subsidy you may get, you can access Services Australia’s Payment Finder.
Make your decision
After visiting centres, gathering information, and considering your options, it’s time to make your decision. Choose the centre that feels like the best fit for your child and your family’s needs.
At St Nicholas Early Education, our programs foster learning, growth, and social development in young children. Our caring educators and high-quality facilities ensure that your child will have a positive and enriching early education experience.
Choosing the right preschool for your child is a big decision, but with careful research, consideration, and guidance, you can feel confident in your choice. If you’re looking for a trusted provider that offers high-quality early education, we invite you to visit one of our St Nicholas Early Education centres. Our dedicated team is here to support you and your child on this exciting learning journey.
Find your local St Nicholas Early Education centre and book a tour today – click here.
