It’s never too early to start looking for a childcare centre in Seaford, especially if you’re aiming for a specific start date. Many centres have waiting lists, so it’s a good idea to start your search well in advance.

Childcare prices vary across different services based on the offerings provided to families. Some centres may require families to provide their own meals and necessities such as nappies, wipes, creams, etc. These centres usually have lower fees due to lower operational costs. On the other hand, centres that offer freshly cooked meals and include all necessities tend to have higher fees due to higher operational expenses. Additionally, the experience of staff and wage costs can also contribute to fluctuations in fees within the area.

To determine if a centre’s fee schedule aligns with your financial circumstances, it is best to contact the centre directly and speak with the Centre Director. They will be able to calculate the exact out-of-pocket cost for their service based on your Child Care Subsidy percentage.

We provide care for children aged 0-5 years. Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs and developmental stages of each age group.

The number of children per educator varies depending on the child’s age and the state or territory where the childcare centre is located. We always have enough staff to meet or exceed these government guidelines. For babies up to two years old, there’s one educator for every four babies. For children between two and three years old, there’s one educator for every four children in Victoria. For children over three years old, there’s one educator for every eleven children in Victoria. You can find out more on the ACECQA website.

Separation anxiety is a normal part of a child’s development. Our experienced educators are trained in gentle and supportive separation techniques. We create a warm and welcoming environment to help children feel secure and loved.

We believe in open communication with parents. We provide daily updates, either verbally or through a dedicated communication Facebook group, to share information about your child’s day, including meals, naps, activities, and any significant milestones.

Our dedicated team holds a range of qualifications, including early childhood education diplomas and certificates. We prioritise ongoing professional development to ensure the highest quality care for your child.

Preparing your child for their first day can be exciting, but also nerve-wracking. We recommend reading books about starting school, talking positively about the experience, and visiting the centre beforehand. Our educators are also happy to offer additional tips and support.

While toilet training is generally encouraged before starting kindergarten, it’s not always a requirement. We believe in supporting each child’s individual development. We work closely with parents to create a comfortable transition for both child and family.

Childcare can be an intimidating prospect, particularly for first-time moms who need to resume work. It is crucial to thoroughly research the childcare centres near you and, if possible, arrange an orientation visit to meet the educators and become acquainted with their routines and practices. Engaging in this process can provide numerous benefits for your child, including fostering emotional and social well-being, preparing them for future learning experiences, and building resilience, among many others.

Research indicates that a significant portion, approximately 90%, of a child’s brain development occurs during the critical period from birth to five years of age. At Chipmunks by the Sea, we deeply understand the vital role we play as early childhood educators. As a result, our programs are thoughtfully crafted to align with the unique interests and developmental milestones of the children in our care. We prioritize setting attainable goals for each child and maintain open communication with their families, actively seeking their input.

While early learning is undeniably important, we go beyond that by fostering a genuine love for learning among the children in our care. Our primary focus is on nurturing their creativity and sparking their curiosity about the world, enabling them to embark on an exciting educational journey. Additionally, we place great emphasis on cultivating meaningful friendships among peers, recognizing the importance of social, emotional, and communication skills. At our boutique childcare centre, our dedicated educators actively support and guide these friendships as children navigate and develop these essential abilities.

Preschool focuses on early learning through play and social interaction. Kindergarten is the first year of formal schooling, with a greater emphasis on academic skills like reading, writing, and math. While there can be overlap, kindergarten typically involves a more structured learning environment.