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Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
What ages do you cater to at Country Kids Early Learning & Kindergarten?
We provide early learning and kindergarten programs for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Our programs are designed to cater to each stage of development, ensuring that every child receives age-appropriate care and learning experiences. Whether your child is an infant just beginning their journey or preparing for school, we have a tailored program to support their growth and development.
What is the philosophy behind your nature-centric approach?
Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that children learn best through play and exploration, particularly in natural environments. By integrating nature into our curriculum, we aim to nurture a child’s curiosity, creativity, and love for the outdoors. We believe that outdoor play fosters holistic development, including social, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth. Our nature-centric approach encourages children to connect with the environment, develop sensory awareness, and learn about sustainability in a hands-on, engaging way.
Are you a licensed and accredited early learning centre?
Yes, we are a fully licensed and accredited early learning centre. We are also a Queensland Approved Kindergarten provider, meeting the rigorous standards for early learning and care set by the Queensland Government. Our team of qualified educators is dedicated to providing a high-quality, safe, and nurturing environment for all children.
Curriculum & Learning
What is play-based learning, and how is it incorporated into your curriculum?
Play-based learning is an educational approach that uses play as a medium for learning. It allows children to explore, discover, and learn through hands-on activities and experiences. At Country Kids, play-based learning is at the core of our curriculum. We create a range of play experiences that promote problem-solving, creativity, and social skills. From outdoor exploration in our Bush Kindy program to creative arts and sensory play, we ensure that learning is fun, engaging, and tailored to each child’s interests and developmental stage.
Can you explain what "Bush Kindy" is?
Bush Kindy is a key element of our nature-centric curriculum. It’s an outdoor program where children spend time exploring and learning in natural environments. Activities in Bush Kindy may include nature walks, bug hunting, building with natural materials, and exploring the sensory aspects of nature. This program helps children develop an appreciation for the environment, encourages physical activity, and supports sensory exploration and creative thinking.
How do you support holistic development in children?
Our approach to holistic development focuses on nurturing all aspects of a child’s growth—social, emotional, intellectual, and physical. We provide a balanced curriculum that includes outdoor play, creative activities, social interaction, and cognitive challenges. Our nature-based learning experiences, combined with our caring and supportive environment, help children build confidence, develop strong social skills, and foster a love for learning. We tailor our programs to meet the needs of each child, ensuring they receive personalised attention and care.
Daily Routine & Activities
What does a typical day at Country Kids look like?
A typical day at Country Kids is filled with a variety of engaging activities that promote learning through play. The day begins with a warm welcome and free play, followed by structured activities such as nature exploration, creative arts, and sensory play. Outdoor play is a significant part of our daily routine, allowing children to explore our large natural spaces, participate in Bush Kindy sessions, and engage in physical activities. Meal and rest times are also incorporated into the day, ensuring a balanced routine that supports each child’s needs. Each day is carefully planned to offer a mix of activities that cater to different areas of development.
How much time do children spend outdoors?
Outdoor play is an essential part of our daily routine. Depending on the weather and the day’s schedule, children spend a significant portion of their day outdoors, exploring our expansive natural spaces and participating in activities like Bush Kindy. We believe that regular outdoor play enhances children’s physical development, encourages creativity, and fosters a connection with nature. Safety is always our top priority, and our outdoor spaces are designed to provide a safe, engaging environment for children to explore.
Do you provide meals, and what is the focus of your menu?
Yes, we provide nutritious meals and snacks that are carefully planned to support children’s growth and development. Our menu focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. We cater to various dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that all children receive healthy, balanced meals. We also incorporate opportunities for children to learn about healthy eating habits and the importance of good nutrition as part of our holistic approach to well-being.
Safety & Health
How do you ensure the safety of children during outdoor activities?
Safety is our top priority, both indoors and outdoors. Our outdoor spaces are designed with safety in mind, including secure fencing, shaded areas, and age-appropriate play equipment. During outdoor activities, our educators provide close supervision and guidance to ensure children are safe while exploring and playing. We also conduct regular risk assessments and have strict safety protocols in place to handle any potential hazards. Our team is trained in first aid and emergency response, ensuring that children are well cared for at all times.
What health and hygiene practices are in place at your centre?
We follow stringent health and hygiene practices to ensure the well-being of all children and staff. This includes regular hand washing, sanitising play areas and equipment, and following proper food handling procedures. We also teach children the importance of personal hygiene, such as washing hands before meals and after outdoor play. In response to health guidelines, we have implemented additional measures, including regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces and promoting physical distancing where appropriate.
What is your policy on illness and communicable diseases?
We have a clear policy in place to manage illness and communicable diseases to protect the health of all children and staff. If a child shows signs of illness, we will contact their parents or guardians to arrange for them to be picked up. We also ask that children who are unwell remain at home until they have fully recovered. In the case of a communicable disease, we follow public health guidelines for notification and exclusion periods. Our team is trained to recognise symptoms of common illnesses and will take appropriate action to minimise the risk of spreading infection.
Enrolment & Fees
How do I enrol my child at Country Kids?
Enrolling your child at Country Kids is simple. You can start the process by contacting us to schedule a tour of our centre. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our educators, explore our facilities, and learn more about our programs. After the tour, we’ll provide you with an enrolment pack that includes all the necessary forms and information. We’re here to help you throughout the process, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
What are your fees, and do you offer any subsidies?
Our fees vary depending on the age group and the days of attendance. We offer a comprehensive fee structure that includes meals, nappies, and all learning materials. We are a registered childcare provider, which means families may be eligible for government subsidies, including the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). We can provide more detailed information about fees and subsidies during your tour or upon enquiry.
Do you have a waiting list, and how does it work?
We may have a waiting list for certain age groups. If your preferred days are not immediately available, we can place your child on our waiting list and will notify you as soon as a spot becomes available. We recommend enrolling early to secure your desired days. Please contact us for current availability and to discuss your needs.
Communication & Parent Involvement
How do you keep parents informed about their child's day?
Communication is key to building a strong partnership with our families. We keep parents informed through daily updates, photos, and regular newsletters. Each child has a communication book where educators record details about their day, including activities, meals, and any notable moments. We also use a secure online platform to share photos and updates, allowing you to stay connected with your child’s learning journey. Additionally, our educators are always available to discuss your child’s progress and answer any questions you may have.
Can parents get involved in the centre's activities?
Absolutely! We value the involvement of parents and families in our centre’s activities. Whether it’s joining us for special events, participating in our community engagement initiatives, or simply spending time with us during drop-off and pick-up, we welcome your participation. We believe that a strong partnership with families enhances the learning experience for children and helps build a supportive community.
How do you handle concerns or feedback from parents?
We are committed to providing an open and supportive environment where parents feel comfortable sharing their concerns or feedback. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please speak with our educators or centre director. We take all feedback seriously and will work with you to address any issues promptly. We believe in continuous improvement and value your input in helping us provide the best possible experience for you and your child.
Ready to Join the Country Kids Community?
Choosing the right early learning environment for your child is an important decision. At Country Kids, we’re committed to providing a nurturing, engaging, and nature-centric experience that lays the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. We invite you to visit our centre, meet our team, and discover the unique learning opportunities we offer.
