Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We understand that choosing the right childcare centre for your child is an important decision, and we're here to make the process as smooth as possible. Here are answers to some common questions about our program:
FAQs
What is your staff-to-child ratio?
Our Centre always upholds the required Ratios; however, we believe that it takes a village to raise a child! We roster additional Educators daily, to support our families at drop-off, our children to make connections and learn through play, and our Educators to provide the best quality care.
In the morning and during the evening we enjoy family grouping, which allows for our children to spend time all together, with an indoor-outdoor flow that supports the children to make autonomous decisions.
What qualifications and training do your staff members have?
We have staff covering the full spectrum of Early Childhood qualifications. We have Bachelor, Diploma and Certificate III Educators and Trainees just starting their journey. A combination of both work across our two rooms.
How do you handle emergencies and ensure child safety?
Ensuring the safety and well-being of children is of paramount importance at Kiddies Learning Hub. Handling emergencies requires a combination of preparedness, vigilance, and quick response. Here's how we prioritize child safety and address emergencies at KLH:
Emergency Preparedness Training:
All staff, including the Centre Cook, undergo regular emergency preparedness training to familiarise themselves with safety protocols and procedures.
Training covers a range of scenarios, including fire drills, evacuation procedures, medical emergencies, and natural disasters.
Emergency Response Plan:
We have a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines specific steps to be taken in various situations.
Staff members are familiar with the emergency response plan and are trained to act swiftly and decisively when needed.
Communication Systems:
A reliable communication system is in place to ensure quick and effective communication among staff during emergencies.
We maintain contact lists, emergency phone numbers, and a communication protocol to keep all team members informed and coordinated.
First Aid and Medical Training:
Staff members are trained in first aid and CPR to provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or medical emergencies.
First aid supplies are readily available and regularly checked to ensure they are well-stocked and up to date.
Regular Emergency Drills:
We conduct regular emergency drills, including fire drills and evacuation exercises, to familiarise children and staff with the procedures.
These drills are designed to be age-appropriate and conducted in a manner that minimizes stress for the children while ensuring they understand the importance of safety protocols.
Child Accountability:
In the event of an emergency requiring evacuation, staff members are responsible for ensuring the accountability of all children under their care.
Roll call procedures are in place to confirm that every child is safely evacuated to the designated assembly point.
Communication with Parents:
In the event of an emergency, open and transparent communication with parents is a top priority.
Parents are promptly notified of the situation, steps taken, and any necessary information regarding the safety and well-being of their children.
Continuous Evaluation and Improvement:
We regularly review and evaluate our emergency procedures to identify areas for improvement.
Feedback from emergency drills, incidents, and staff observations are used to update and enhance the emergency response plan continually.
By prioritising training, communication, and a proactive approach to safety, Kiddies Learning Hub strives to create an environment where children feel secure, and staff members are well-equipped to handle emergencies effectively. The safety and well-being of every child in our care are non-negotiable priorities.
What is your approach to discipline and behaviour management?
At Kiddies Learning Hub, our approach to discipline and behaviour management is rooted in fostering a positive, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for all children. We believe in guiding and supporting children to develop self-discipline, social skills, and a sense of responsibility. Our approach is designed to create a safe and respectful space where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Here's an overview of our philosophy and strategies:
Positive Reinforcement:
We emphasize positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour. Praise, encouragement, and recognition are used to reinforce positive actions, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-worth in children.
Clear Expectations:
We establish clear and age-appropriate expectations for behaviour. These expectations are communicated to both children and their parents, creating a consistent and supportive approach to behaviour management.
Modelling Behaviour:
Our staff serves as positive role models for children. We demonstrate the values and behaviours we expect, helping children learn by example.
Redirection:
When challenging behaviours arise, our staff employs redirection as an effective strategy. By redirecting a child's attention to a more positive and acceptable activity, we guide them away from undesired behaviours.
Conflict Resolution:
We teach children essential conflict resolution skills, emphasising communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Through age-appropriate discussions, children learn to express themselves and understand the perspectives of others.
Consistency:
Consistency is key to our approach. Consistent expectations and responses help children feel secure and understand the boundaries of acceptable behaviour.
Individualised Approaches:
Recognising that each child is unique, we tailor our approach to discipline and behaviour management to meet individual needs. Understanding the underlying causes of behaviour allows us to address challenges more effectively.
Communication with Parents:
Open and transparent communication with parents is crucial. We keep parents informed about their child's behaviour, development, and any challenges that may arise. Collaborative partnerships between parents and our childcare professionals contribute to a holistic approach to behaviour management.
Teaching Social Skills:
We incorporate intentional teaching of social skills into our daily activities. Children learn the importance of sharing, cooperation, empathy, and respect for others.
Reflection and Growth:
Our staff engages in regular reflection and professional development to continuously improve our approach to behaviour management. We stay informed about best practices and remain adaptable to the evolving needs of the children in our care.
We view behaviour management as an integral part of the overall learning experience. Our goal is to create an environment where children feel supported, respected, and empowered to develop into confident, responsible individuals. We believe that positive guidance and reinforcement contribute to a nurturing atmosphere that promotes optimal growth and development for every child in our care.
Do you provide meals and snacks?
We currently provide Morning and Afternoon tea, with a breakfast available from 7.30 to 8.15am and late snack at 5pm. We are transitioning to a catered Lunch by June 2024.
How do you handle allergies and dietary restrictions?
At Kiddies Learning Hub, the safety and well-being of every child are our top priorities, and we are committed to providing a safe environment for children with allergies and dietary restrictions. Our approach to handling allergies and dietary restrictions is thorough, proactive, and individualized to meet the unique needs of each child. Here's an overview of our strategies and practices:
Allergy Information Gathering:
During the enrolment process, we collect comprehensive information about each child's allergies and dietary restrictions. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to communicate any relevant details, including specific allergens, severity of reactions, and recommended treatments.
Staff Training:
All Kiddies Learning Hub staff members, including teachers, cooks, and support staff, undergo thorough training on allergy awareness, recognition of symptoms, and emergency response procedures.
Training is regularly updated to ensure that staff members are well-informed about the latest developments in allergy management.
Individualised Care Plans:
For children with known allergies or dietary restrictions, we develop individualised care plans in consultation with parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. These plans outline specific protocols, emergency procedures, and alternative meal options.
Nutrition Planning:
Our Childcare Centre Cook works closely with the individual care plans to plan and prepare meals that accommodate dietary restrictions and allergens. We maintain a clear separation of ingredients and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.
Allergen-Free Zones:
Designated areas are established within the childcare centre to minimize the risk of exposure for children with specific allergies. Staff is trained to enforce and monitor these allergen-free zones, ensuring a safe space for all children. This is the cosy corner in both rooms.
Communication and Awareness:
We maintain open and transparent communication with parents, caregivers, and staff about allergies and dietary restrictions. Regular reminders and updates are provided to ensure everyone is aware of the specific needs of each child.
Emergency Preparedness:
Kiddies Learning Hub has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes specific protocols for managing allergic reactions. This plan covers the administration of emergency medications, communication with emergency services, and timely notification of parents.
Regular Review and Feedback:
We conduct regular reviews of our allergy management protocols to identify areas for improvement. Feedback from parents, staff, and healthcare professionals is actively sought and incorporated into our practices.
Educational Initiatives:
Kiddies Learning Hub conducts educational initiatives to raise awareness among children about allergies and the importance of inclusivity. Age-appropriate discussions and activities help foster understanding and empathy among all children.
We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. Our proactive and collaborative approach to handling allergies and dietary restrictions ensures that children with specific needs receive the necessary care, support, and understanding to participate fully in our educational programs.
Do you have outdoor play areas?
We have a lovely garden space, with plenty of undercover and shaded play space. We have a sandpit, cubbyhouse with slide and a bike track. We are also within a few hundred metres of a local park that we love to visit on our weekly excursions!
How do you communicate with parents about their child's progress and daily activities?
At Kiddies Learning Hub, we prioritize transparent and consistent communication with parents to keep them informed about their child's progress, daily activities, and personal routines. We utilize a combination of digital platforms, such as 'Storypark,' and traditional communication methods like 'Day Books' to create a comprehensive and engaging system. Here's how we communicate with parents:
Storypark for Curriculum Documentation:
'Storypark' serves as a dynamic and interactive platform for documenting our curriculum and each child's individual learning journey. Teachers use 'Storypark' to create digital portfolios for each child, capturing their milestones, achievements, and progress in real-time.
Daily Activities and Routine Communication:
'Day Books' play a crucial role in recording and communicating the children's personal routines. This includes information about meals, naptimes, diaper changes, and any other significant daily activities. Parents can expect a detailed overview of their child's day through the 'Day Books.'
Digital Photo Collages on Storypark:
To provide a visual representation of the children's daily experiences, we create digital photo collages on 'Storypark.' These collages include images of various activities, projects, and playtime moments, giving parents a glimpse into their child's day.
Activity Descriptions and Learning Highlights:
Alongside the photos, educators provide descriptive captions and highlights of the day's activities on 'Storypark.' This ensures that parents not only see visual snapshots but also gain insights into the educational and developmental aspects of each activity.
Regular Updates and Posts:
We make regular updates on 'Storypark' to keep parents informed about ongoing projects, upcoming events, and any changes in the Centre's routine. This ensures that parents are well-prepared and involved in their child's experiences.
Two-Way Communication:
Parents are encouraged to actively engage with the content posted on 'Storypark.' They can comment on photos, ask questions, and share insights about their child's experiences at home. This two-way communication strengthens the partnership between parents and educators.
Individual Learning Plans (ILPs):
For children with specific learning goals or individualised learning plans, 'Storypark' serves as a valuable tool for documenting progress. Teachers can share observations, milestones, and strategies used to support each child's unique learning journey.
Parent-Teacher Conferences:
Periodic parent-teacher conferences provide opportunities for more in-depth discussions about a child's progress. Teachers use the information from 'Storypark' and 'Day Books' as a foundation for these conversations, ensuring a holistic understanding of the child's development.
Emergency Notifications:
In the event of emergencies or unexpected changes, we use 'Storypark' to quickly communicate with parents. Timely updates and notifications help parents stay informed and reassured about their child's safety and well-being. Additionally, we utilise emails to ensure families are kept in the loop regarding follow-up information and next steps.
By combining digital platforms like 'Storypark' with traditional methods such as 'Day Books,' Kiddies Learning Hub ensures that parents have a comprehensive and real-time understanding of their child's experiences, progress, and daily activities. This multifaceted communication approach promotes transparency, collaboration, and a strong partnership between our Center and the families we serve.
Do you have any accreditation or certifications?
We are a SunSmart accredited Centre and are Meeting in all the 7 National Quality Standards.