Frequently asked questions
What age do children usually start care?
Generally around 4-6 months. Some children start around 12 months and later depending on their families requirements.
What are your opening hours?
We are available from 7am - 6pm.
Do you cater for Kindergarten children?
Yes we do, however our Kinder Bears room is generally comprised of children moving up from our younger rooms.
How do I know this is the right centre for my family?
You really must visit and get a feel for a service. Meet the people within it, observe the children in the space and how the educators engage with them. You will know by how a centre feels if it is right for your family.
What are your fees?
Currently $130.00 per day.
Can I claim government rebates?
Yes you can. You will need to apply to Centrelink for the Child Care Subsidy. To receive the subsidy children must be immunised.
What is your kindergarten program and how will it prepare them for school?
Our Kinder Bears program continues to follow the children’s inquiry with educators engaging them with age appropriate experiences and resources to facilitate their learning.
What will my child be doing all day?
Your child will be engaging in a flexible learning environment with educators who are skilled in Early Childhood Education and Care. Free play and multiple ‘yes’ spaces enable children to spread their circle of security, challenge themselves and engage in social environments that are equipped for their age and development. A simple circle time in the morning and bush walk or play in the bush during the day also welcomes children to experience opportunities to explore nature and the environment around them. Cooking, painting, reading, singing, story time are among many of the daily practices that engage children and all of their senses.
Do we provide nappies?
Yes we do. We provide fully compostable nappies which are disposed of by a commercial composting service. Families may also purchase our nappies if they wish along with our compostable bin bags, they can dispose of them in our compostable bins on the premises.
Do we provide food?
No, we are a lunch box service. We recommend Bento style lunch boxes, to promote healthy eating and reduce waste.
Lunch box ideas?
There are many websites that have some great recommendations. Here are two for you.
What do I pack?
We ask families to pack enough food to get through an active day. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea with a piece of fruit to share. If required you can also pack breakfast or dinner. For children in nappies, we require one home time nappy for us to change your child into so we retain our nappy belts. Several changes of clothes are required so we can change your child when we have wet/water play and in winter we ask for many layers, a warm coat, a rain coat, gumboots and a beanie. In Summer we require a leggionaire style or wide brimmed sunhat. If your child has an allergy to sunscreen we ask that you provide your own.
Can my child attend Gaia’s Nest and another kindergarten in the same year?
Yes they can.
What do I do if I’m on the wait list but have not receive a place yet?
Hold tight, we will be in contact as soon as a place becomes available.