Choosing the right kindy service

Kindy tick

 

Services delivering approved kindergarten programs use the ‘kindy tick’ to promote their service.

There’s a new tick to show free kindergarten program providers—keep an eye out for it.

You may also see this kindy tick to show the kindy program is free.

Use the Free Kindy Finder to find a Free Kindy program near you.

Parent checklist

• Ask educators about how the service meets or is working to meet the National Quality Framework.
• Ask to see their National quality rating. The rating system assesses the quality of kindergarten, long day care, outside school hours care and family day care services, which are regulated under the National Law.
• Ask to see the service’s policies and procedures for complaints management. Services should work with parents to resolve any issues that may arise.
• Request access to the service’s compliance history with National Law (this may reflect the service’s performance in areas such as health and safety). Any concerns you have about compliance can be discussed with the service directly.
• Arrange a visit to inspect the service. All services should welcome you so that you can have a look around and ask questions.
• Request access to the service’s Quality Improvement Plan. This plan helps services self-assess their performance in delivering quality education and care, and to plan future improvements. Parents have a right to view this plan.

Quality in early childhood services

• Experience the kindergarten room virtual tour to see a quality kindy room.
• Discover other options for early care and learning available in Queensland.

Choosing the right service for you

• Do you feel welcome?
• Do the educators take time to speak with you and your child?
• Are educators engaging with children in a warm way?
• Is the service clean?
• Is the outdoor environment inviting?
• Ask educators about how the service meets or is working to meet the National Quality Framework.
• Is the service culturally respectful and welcoming?
• What are the operating hours?
• Can I visit my child during the day?
• What should I provide? (sheet, lunch, water bottle, nappies etc.)
• What activities will they be engaging in?

When visiting a service, you should see on display:

• quality ratings
• documentation (safety and evacuation routes etc.)
• the service's educational program.​
  

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