When it comes to choosing a Kindergarten for your little one, there are often two choices that come to mind – Long Day Care (LDC) with an integrated Kindergarten program like the one that we offer families and a Standalone Kindergarten. 

Both programs are taught by qualified early childhood teachers and both follow the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines, however Long Day Care centres like us at Sorella Early Learning offer additional benefits such as incursion and excursion programs, more flexible hours (we are open from 06:30-6:30pm) and we are open during the school holidays. 

Each option offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preference, we know it can be quite daunting when trying to decide which is best for your family so we’ve put together our tips for making the right choice:

1. Visit Multiple centres: Schedule visits to various long day care centres and standalone kindergartens in your area to experience their atmosphere, observe interactions between educators and children, and gather first hand impressions.

2. Engage in Open Conversations with Educators and Staff: Talk to educators and staff about their philosophy, curriculum, and approach to early childhood education. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask about their strategies for fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development.

3. Observe Children in Action: Pay attention to how children interact with each other, engage with the learning environment, and respond to the educators’ guidance. This will provide insights into the center’s overall culture and atmosphere.

4. Consider Your Child’s Personality and Learning Style: Reflect on your child’s temperament, interests, and learning preferences. If they thrive on routine and structure, a standalone kindergarten might be a better fit. If they enjoy exploration and hands-on activities, long day care could be a more suitable option.

5. Seek Recommendations from Other Parents: Talk to friends, family, and neighbours who have chosen early childhood education options for their children. Their experiences and insights can provide valuable perspectives and help you make a more informed decision.

6. Prioritise Your Child’s Comfort and Happiness: Ultimately, the best early childhood education setting is one where your child feels safe, loved, and stimulated. Trust your instincts and choose a place where your child develops joy and enthusiasm for learning.

We would love to invite you to come and see our beautiful environments and meet our team of wonderful educators! If you would like to book a tour please complete our enquiry form and one of our team will be in touch.