Childcare makes a huge difference for you and your family. The following guide gives you tips to find the right care for your child.

Finding the right Bankstown childcare

•            When looking for childcare, you have several options. Look around and take a close look at each centre. Check whether the centre is close to your home or work. A nearby place makes drop-offs and pickups simple.

•            Check if the centre fits your schedule. Look at a daily start and end time. Speak with the childcare provider.

•            Consider the staff-to-child ratio. Ask about the number of caregivers. A small ratio helps in giving your child more attention.

•            Look for open spaces and quiet areas. Outdoor play is a plus.

Check different programs and activities

A centre should provide a range of programs to help your child grow. They should be a mix of play, learning and music. At Bankstown Childcare, you may expect a variety of activities.

•            Educational play with creative areas includes arts and crafts and group activities.

•            Check for indoor and outdoor exercise sessions. Movement and games help your child build strength.

•            Look for scheduled quiet time. It helps your child relax and be comfortable.

•            Look for language and social skills. These activities will be about conversation. Small group interactions are good. They can also include storytelling and group-sharing time.

•            Safety should be your top concern. The child should be comfortable and you have to be comfortable about their safety as well. Visit the centre and see the environment for yourself.

•            Check whether they follow a safety routine. Look for clear emergency procedures. The play and rest area should be kept clean.

•            Enquire how food is stored and served. Ask if there is care for allergies and special diets.

•            Visit the centre to see how the staff supervises playtime and activities. See how they watch over children during all activities.

•            At Bankstown Childcare, communication with parents is essential. Some centres use a diary or an app for updates. You get news of meals, naps and play sessions.

•            Regular short meetings are held to discuss the child’s progress. The centre also welcomes questions. A feedback box is useful.

The benefits of childcare

Childcare helps your children gain the necessary skills and confidence so they can find a safe space to learn social interaction. Children meet with other kids and learn to share and talk. Group activities promote these social skills.

Actively and guided activities help children learn new movements, regular interaction and story hours. Children practice speaking and listening. A caring centre makes a child feel valued. Positive interactions build their self-esteem.

Explore Bankstown’s childcare facilities. When visiting the childcare, use your visit to ask questions and see if the centre fits your needs. Write down a list of simple questions about program safety and meals. Observe the environment and see how the staff deals with the children. Note whether the children are happy and engaged. If possible, meet other parents and ask about their experience.

There are payment plans for every centre. Some offer flexible payments. You can choose weekly or monthly plans. Check whether there are extra costs for activities and meals. Some centres offer support. If you qualify for financial help, ask about subsidies that apply to you.