One of the best ways to decide if a centre is right for your child is to take a Tour. Seeing the centre in action gives you insight you can’t get from a website or brochure.
As you walk through, notice:
- Do children look happy and engaged?
- Do Educators know the children by name?
- Does the space feel safe and welcoming?
- Does the centre align with your family’s values?
It can help to prepare a list of questions before your visit, so you don’t forget anything important. Talking with the Centre Manager and Educators can also give you a sense of the centre’s values and culture.
Here are some questions you may want to consider:
About the Centre
- What are your operating hours?
- How does drop-off and pick-up work each day?
- Do you offer casual care or additional days if our needs change?
- What care services do you provide?
- Has the centre been assessed under the National Quality Standard?
- What NQS rating did it receive?
- How do you keep families informed about what’s happening at the centre?
About the Educators
- What qualifications do your Educators hold?
- Will my child have a key Educator or consistent staff in their room?
- How do Educators build relationships with children and families?
- What is the staff turnover like at the centre?
- Do Educators receive ongoing training and professional development?
About Your Child
- How do you support children as they settle into care?
- How will you learn about my child’s day, learning and well-being?
- How do you support children with additional needs or individual requirements?
- How do you work in partnership with families around routines, sleep and care preferences?
About Early Childhood Education and Learning
- What does a typical day look like for children in this age group?
- What curriculum or learning framework do you follow?
- How do you support play-based learning and children’s interests?
- How much time do children spend outdoors each day?
- How do you prepare children for preschool or school transitions?
About Health, Safety & Wellbeing
- What are your sick child and exclusion policies?
- How do you handle medical needs and medication administration?
- What emergency procedures are in place?
- How do you maintain hygiene and reduce the spread of illness?
- How do you support children’s emotional well-being and behaviour?
About Food & Nutrition
- Is food provided or brought from home?
- Can I see a sample menu?
- How are allergies and dietary requirements managed?
- How do mealtimes support healthy habits and independence?
Practical Considerations
- Is the centre easily accessible from home or work?
- What parking or transport options are available?
- What are the fees, and how does the Child Care Subsidy apply?
- Are there waitlists, and how far in advance should we enrol?
