Making the Best Choice for Your Family: Choosing Childcare

Choosing childcare is an important decision for every family, whether you work full-time or part-time. What every parent wants is the same thing: a safe, caring, and stimulating environment for their child.

What makes a good caregiver

• Understands child development and what to expect at each age and stage.
• Provides genuine learning opportunities through everyday play and interaction, not just supervision.
• Responds warmly and consistently to a child's emotional needs.
• Supports and respects the parents' own goals and values for raising their child.

What to look for in a quality childcare setting

• Is clean, safe, and has a small number of children per staff member.
• Staff are qualified, immunised, and background-checked.
• Has both indoor and outdoor play areas, and a proper space for rest.
• Follows a smoke-free policy.
• Offers varied, age-appropriate activities, with toys that are well maintained.
• Provides nutritious meals and snacks.
• Allows unannounced visits from parents at any time.
• Keeps screen time limited.