Early learning ensures children get flying start into school
Long-day care kindergarten allows parents to remain at work
Queensland parents have given the private sector’s long day care kindergarten program the thumbs up as thousands of four-year-old children prepare for the transition to school through play-based learning.
Over 300 private long day care centres across Queensland are providing the Queensland Government approved and recognised kindergarten early learning program that is facilitated by a four year trained early childhood teacher.
Childcare Queensland CEO Gwynn Bridge says that long day care centres have embraced the government’s program and are providing kindergarten children with social and early learning skills to ensure that they get a flying start into their school years.
The response from parents, children and centre staff has been overwhelmingly positive.
Sole parent of a four-year-old Cooper, Courtney Barnard, says that she has noticed the changes in her son who is currently enjoying 15 hours a week in the kindergarten program in long day care.
“My son Cooper is enjoying the kindergarten program as part of his normal childcare week with familiar staff and friends. I have noticed it has helped him become more confident and his vocabulary and social skills have improved,” Courtney said.
“The kindergarten program in long-day care has allowed me to continue work fulltime as a single mother,” she said.
University trained Kindergarten teacher Kate Takano says that the program has provided her with more resources and a wide range of opportunities to encourage the children to expand on their interests and knowledge.
Childcare Queensland is Australia’s largest state child care organisation with a membership of 880 long-day care centres, caring for 115,000 children, communicating with over 210,000 parents and representing 15,000 staff.
Available for interview: Childcare Queensland CEO Gwynn Bridge 0418 764 779
