Tips to choose an ECLC

When choosing a kinder or early childhood learning centre (ECLC) for your three or fouryear old, it’s great to have options. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are my seven top tips to help you pick the perfect ECLC.

1. Take time to talk to the teachers

Whether your child is a full-time daycare aficionado or new to attending care outside the home, they need experienced teachers who are passionate, positive and nurturing. Great relationships with teachers help your child feel a sense of belonging and encourage trust. When you attend a tour or open morning, chat to as many teachers as possible. Ask what they love about their job, what experience they have and, most importantly, watch how they interact with your child and others.

2. Get your child prepped for Prep

If you know where your child will go to primary school, check that the ECLC’s curriculum and educational philosophy matches up. This will help create a seamless transition between ECLC and Prep. Some ECLCs are integrated into school campuses and draw upon the same teaching and learning framework used in later years. This familiarity can help build your child’s confidence before ‘big school’ begins.

3. Investigate the approach to wellbeing

At this crucial time of development and growth, your child needs space and guidance to develop life and school skills such as selfesteem, cooperation, making friends, and emotional literacy and agility. Ask about the ECLC’s approach to children’s emotional, social and physical wellbeing and development, and how the approach is put into action. Look for smaller class sizes or higher educator-child ratios. This allows teachers to personalise learning and wellbeing experiences, so each child can explore and develop according to their interests, needs and abilities.

4. Ask about specialist programs and opportunities

Aside from numeracy and literacy, does the ECLC offer music, dance, drama, language or library programs? Is there access to facilities such as swimming pools or art centres? Will incursions and/or excursions fit your child’s interests and foster creativity?

5. Don’t discount convenience

The reality is, if you have other commitments or children to consider, you need an option that fits your family. Most kindergarten programs only run on certain days and at specific times. Look for an ECLC that offers flexibility through integrated kindergarten programs, full-time and part-time options, or before and after school care.

6. Choose an option that includes play-based, hands-on learning

Young children learn best through doing. An ECLC’s environments and experiences should encourage curiosity and adventure and reflect the identity and cultures of its children and families.

Outdoor areas that include natural elements and sensory experiences give children the space they need for independent exploration, and imaginative, interactive and collaborative learning and play.

7. Ask about NQF ratings

Regulated services across Australia are required to meet high national standards of safety and learning and development opportunities. Check the National Quality Framework’s quality rating and look for services that offer an Exceeding rating. By Ben Dooley, Head of Junior School at Wesley College Glen Waverley. Explore what Wesley College ECLCs can offer your child at an Elsternwick, Glen Waverley or St Kilda Road open morning or campus tour.