What you need to know when starting at Kids on 4th

Starting child care can be an exciting but anxious time for both you and your child. At Kids on 4th we strive to ensure that the enrolment and orientation process is a positive experience for the whole family. Our friendly team of child care educators are there to support each family and make this time of transition as smooth and easy as possible.

We understand that there’s a lot to consider when enrolling your little one in child care for the first time. So we have listed below some of the key information you need to know when enrolling your child at Kids on 4th Child Care Centre and Kindergarten. If you require more information or have any queries feel free to come and visit the centre or phone our Directors (Rachael or Melindie) on 07 5534 2074.

Hours of Operation

The child care centre is open 52 weeks of the year Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.
The licensed hours of care are from 6.30am to 6.30pm.

Child Care Enrolment information

To support each child’s development and involvement in the program, a two-day minimum booking applies. Upon offer of a position at the Centre, an enrolment fee and bond is payable to secure the booking. The bond of $100 is held on your account and is either refunded when you leave or goes towards any outstanding fees. As part of the $50 enrolment fee, your child receives a sheet set for their bed/cot and two Kids on 4th t-shirts.

During the enrolment process families receive an enrolment pack, containing our Parent Handbook, Child Profile Sheet and Enrolment Forms. All Enrolments Forms, along with a copy of your child’s immunisation records are required prior to your child starting at the Centre.

Orientation

Whilst you are enrolling at Kids on 4th Rachael or Melindie will take time to get to know the needs of you and your child, discuss information about the Child Care Centre and answer any questions you may have. An important part of these initial discussions will be developing an orientation strategy that best suits the needs of you and your child.  In most cases it’s a good idea for you and your child to visit the Centre as many times as possible prior to officially starting, to become familiar with the environment, our educators and room routines. During this time your child’s educators will provide you with information regarding the room and discuss your child’s individual needs and interests. Orientation visits are a great opportunity to make your child feel safe and secure in their new environment and to ensure their transition to the Centre is a positive and happy experience. 

What we provide

  • An engaging and meaningful program which values and builds on children’s strengths, skills and knowledge.
  • A Government approved Kindergarten Program delivered by a university trained Early Childhood Teacher.
  • Highly trained and passionate child care educators.
  • A stimulating large natural outdoor play area.
  • Nappies, wipes, tissues and sunscreen.
  • A Range of Extra-Curricular programs – music, dance and sports
  • Entertaining and educational shows/performers throughout the year (no additional cost).
  • Special events and themed days e.g. Circus Day, Father’s Day Arvo Tea, Kids Zone at Feast on Fifth, Christmas Concert.

What to bring – daily requirements

  • A broad brimmed or legionnaires hat. Baseball caps are not recommended for protection against the sun.
  • At least two sets of clothing.
  • The Centre supplies sunscreen. However, we do ask that parents apply sunscreen to their children before arriving at the centre. Educators will re-apply sunscreen prior to going outside.
  • Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
  • Sipper cup or drink bottle.
  • Bottles containing dairy, formula or breast milk (clearly labelled with your child’s name).
  • Comfort items such as dummies, soft toys, blankets etc.
  • If your child is toilet training, sufficient underwear for throughout the day.

Medical conditions and allergies

At the time of enrolment you will be asked to identify if your child has a medical condition, including the diagnosis of asthma, anaphylaxis or diabetes. Any child at the Centre who has a specific health care need, allergy or relevant medical condition is required to provide a copy of their Management/Emergency Action Plan from their doctor and develop a Risk Minimisation Plan and Communication Plan in consultation with us.  Once enrolled, parents are responsible for regularly up-dating the Centre with information regarding their child’s medical condition and treatment.

The safety and wellbeing of all children at the Centre is our highest priority and every precaution is taken to protect children from harm or hazard.  All our Educators hold Senior First Aid Certificates, which include training in the management of asthma and anaphylaxis.  As some children at the Centre have severe allergies to peanuts and eggs, Kids on 4th is ‘nut/egg free’ environment.

Family involvement

Kids on 4th believes that the bond between home and the Centre is an important part of children’s development. Family involvement sends strong positive messages to your child that you support them and are a part of the child care environment. It is valuable for your child to share with you the experiences that make up their day. To achieve this, we welcome families into the Centre at any time and you are encouraged to make contact with us during the day if you have any concerns regarding your child’s physical or emotional well being. We also encourage families to participate in their child’s program and attend parent information meetings and social functions (Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, Grandparents’ Day etc).

Fees

Fees are payable for every day your child is enrolled, including public holidays, sick days and absences due to family holidays. Daily rates are determined based on the age of your child and the number of days they attend. Our fee structure offers a slightly cheaper daily rate for children enrolled four or five days per week. We also offer make-up days (dependent on availability) for public holidays and a 50% discount on fees for holiday periods of 2 weeks or more.

The Australian Government provides financial assistance to eligible families towards the cost of child care. Families’ are responsible for contacting the Department of Human Services before commencing enrolment to lodge a claim for Child Care Subsidy (CCS).  More information regarding Government Child Care fee assistance can be found by visiting the Department of Human Services website: www.humanservices.gov.au or calling 136 150.