At Community Kids Haven, we understand how important it is for many families to raise bilingual children and maintain their home language while learning English. Whether you’re a multilingual household or want your child to grow up connected to your cultural heritage, supporting your child’s language development at home is key. Here’s how you can help your child thrive as a bilingual learner—starting in the early years. 1. Speak Your Native Language at Home Every Day One of the best ways to preserve your family’s native language is to use it regularly at home. Children learn language through natural conversations, so speaking your first language during daily routines helps build strong language foundations and a sense of cultural identity. Tip: Don’t worry if your child mixes languages—that’s a normal part of bilingual language development. 2. Create a Language-Rich Environment in Your Home Language Families often search for ways to encourage language development in two languages. Start with everyday opportunities: Talk about what you’re doing while cooking or cleaning Name household objects in your home language Share stories, rhymes, and songs passed down through generations Use simple questions to spark conversation Your child will gain vocabulary and confidence through repeated exposure in meaningful situations. 3. Read Books in Both Languages Reading aloud in your first language is one of the most effective ways to support early literacy and dual language skills. Look for books in your home language, or translate English books as you go. You can also: Borrow bilingual books from local libraries Watch story readings in your home language online Make your own picture books using family words or cultural stories Search tip: Many families look online for “bilingual books for toddlers” or “how to teach my child my native language”— this kind of shared reading can meet both goals. 4. Balance English Exposure with Cultural Connection Your child will naturally pick up English through play, care, and social interactions—especially in a supportive early learning environment like ours. At home, focus on preserving your mother tongue, especially if English is spoken outside the home more often. The balance of languages doesn’t need to be perfect—what matters is consistency, comfort, and connection. 5. Encourage Two-Way Conversations Rather than simply teaching words, encourage your child to express their thoughts. Ask open-ended questions like “What did you like about that story?” or “How do you think grandma makes that dish?” in your home language. This helps develop expressive skills and deepens your child’s sense of identity. 6. Work with Your Early Learning Centre At Community Kids Haven, we value linguistic and cultural diversity. If your child speaks another language at home, please let our educators know—we will support their bilingual journey in a respectful and inclusive way. We also encourage families to share cultural stories, music, and traditions with the centre—helping your child feel proud of their background while learning and socialising in English. Final Word: You’re Giving Your Child a Lifelong Gift Preserving your native language while raising your child in Australia is not only possible—it’s incredibly beneficial. Bilingual children often develop stronger problem-solving skills, greater empathy, and a deep connection to their heritage. By speaking your home language with pride, reading together, and keeping culture part of everyday life, you’re giving your child the best of both worlds. Community Kids Haven is here to support you. We celebrate multilingual families and welcome the chance to partner with you in your child’s bilingual development. Contact your local centre to learn more about our inclusive approach to early learning.

Navigating the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) can feel overwhelming at first—but understanding how it works can make a real difference to your family’s out-of-pocket childcare costs. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or looking to update your details, here’s a helpful overview of what CCS is, who’s eligible, and how to get started. At Community Kids Haven, we’re a CCS-approved provider—so eligible families can access government support to reduce their out-of-pocket fees. What is the Child Care Subsidy? The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a payment from the Australian Government that helps eligible families cover the cost of approved childcare. The amount you’re entitled to depends on your family’s income, the type of childcare you use, your activity level (such as work, study, or volunteering), and the hourly rate cap. CCS is paid directly to your childcare provider to reduce your weekly fees, so you only pay the gap amount—that is, the remaining balance after the subsidy is applied. Who is Eligible for CCS? You may be eligible for CCS if you: Care for a child aged 13 or under who is not attending secondary school Use an approved childcare service (like ours!) Meet the Australian residency requirements Are responsible for paying the childcare fees Meet the activity and income tests How is CCS Calculated? The subsidy you receive is based on: Your combined family income Your level of recognised activity (e.g., hours of work, study, or volunteering) The hourly rate cap and your centre’s fees Families earning under a certain threshold receive a higher percentage of subsidy, while families with higher incomes may receive a lower percentage or none at all. As of July 2023, many families earning under $530,000 are eligible for some level of CCS. How to Apply for CCS Create a Centrelink online account through MyGov (if you don’t have one already). Submit a CCS claim via your MyGov account. Provide your activity details, income estimate, and other required information. Confirm your enrolment once your childcare service submits it. It’s important to keep your details up to date—especially income and activity hours—to ensure you’re receiving the right amount. Need Help? If you’re unsure about the process or how to get started, we’re happy to help. Our centre team can walk you through the steps, explain how CCS works with our fees, and help you feel confident about your enrolment. Final Tip Even if you think you might not qualify, it’s still worth applying. Many families are surprised to find they’re eligible for more support than expected. If you’d like more personalised help or have questions about fees and subsidies at Community Kids Haven, feel free to reach out—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Long drives with children can be tricky—especially when the novelty wears off and the questions start rolling in (“How much longer?”, “Can we stop?”, “I’m bored!”). But with a bit of planning, the journey can be a smoother experience for everyone in the car. Here are some practical, screen-free (and low-fuss) ways to keep your child occupied during long car rides: 1. Pack a Travel Activity Kit Put together a small bag with drawing supplies, sticker books, puzzles, and a few small toys. Quiet activities like these can buy you some peaceful kilometres. 2. Play Simple Word Games “I Spy”, “20 Questions”, or alphabet spotting games are easy to play without needing anything but your surroundings—and they often spark some fun conversations. 3. Listen to Stories Audiobooks and child-friendly podcasts are a great way to hold your child’s attention for long stretches. Choose stories that suit their age and interests—many streaming platforms offer free options. 4. Keep Snacks Handy A variety of easy-to-reach, mess-free snacks can go a long way in keeping kids content. Consider packing a mix of healthy bites and a few favourites for extra motivation during the trip. 5. Try Travel Bingo or Scavenger Hunts Create a basic list or card with items your child might see along the way—like a red car, a windmill, or a dog. Spotting and checking things off gives them something to focus on beyond the clock. 6. Rotate Toys and Activities Don’t give everything to them at once—save a few items to bring out later in the trip. A new book or small toy can reset their attention and give them something fresh to explore. 7. Let Them Help with the Journey Give older children a printed map or let them help track where you are. Involving them in the travel process can build interest and make them feel part of the plan. 8. Make Time for Breaks Whenever possible, stop at parks or open areas where kids can stretch, move, and reset. Even a 10-minute break can make a big difference in their mood. In Summary There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but a mix of low-tech entertainment, a few strategic snacks, and regular stops can turn a long drive into something more manageable—for everyone. With a bit of planning, you might even enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Play-based learning is a cornerstone of early childhood education, offering children a natural way to develop essential skills through engaging, hands-on activities. This approach harnesses a child’s curiosity to foster growth, making it a vital part of any early learning curriculum in 2025. This blog explores the impact of play-based learning on young children, highlighting its role in development and its relevance for parents considering how to choose a childcare centre or preparing for their child’s first day at childcare. Understanding Play-Based Learning Play-based learning involves children learning through guided activities such as building, pretending, or exploring. Unlike traditional academic methods, it allows children to direct their learning, with educators facilitating experiences that align with developmental milestones. In 2025, play-based learning often incorporates STEAM in early learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), enabling children to explore concepts in a fun, meaningful way. This approach supports school readiness in early learning by building skills through activities that feel like play, not work. This method taps into a child’s innate desire to discover, adapting to the needs of infants through preschoolers. High-quality programs typically feature low educator-child ratios to ensure personalised guidance, and many are accessible through initiatives like the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) or Free Kinder programs. How Play-Based Learning Drives Development Play-based learning nurtures multiple areas of a child’s growth, creating a well-rounded foundation. The following outlines its impact: 1. Cognitive Development Through Exploration Activities like puzzles, sorting games, or stacking blocks encourage problem-solving and critical thinking. For instance, building a tower introduces early math concepts like balance and spatial awareness, aligning with STEAM in early learning. These experiences help children test ideas, learn from trial and error, and develop reasoning skills crucial for school readiness in early learning. 2. Social Growth Through Interaction Group play, such as role-playing in a pretend kitchen or playing cooperative games, teaches children to share, communicate, and collaborate. These interactions foster empathy and social confidence, enabling kids to form friendships and navigate group dynamics. Such skills ease the transition for a child’s first day at childcare. 3. Emotional Resilience Through Expression Play provides a safe space for children to process emotions. Activities like painting, storytelling, or dramatic play allow kids to express joy, frustration, or curiosity. This emotional outlet supports self-regulation and resilience, equipping children to handle challenges in early learning settings. 4. Physical Skills Through Movement Active play, such as climbing, running, or threading beads, strengthens fine and gross motor skills. Outdoor activities enhance coordination, while crafts like drawing improve dexterity. These physical abilities support tasks like writing, preparing children for school while keeping learning engaging. Benefits of Play-Based Learning Play-based learning offers numerous advantages: Creativity: Open-ended play, like inventing a story or building a structure, sparks imagination. Confidence: Mastering challenges, such as completing a puzzle, boosts self-esteem. Social Bonds: Collaborative play encourages teamwork and connection. Lifelong Curiosity: Play makes learning enjoyable, fostering a love for discovery. In 2025, these benefits align with educational goals, integrating STEAM in early learning to prepare children for a dynamic world. The Relevance of Play-Based Learning in 2025 Unlike rigid, academic-focused approaches, play-based learning is flexible, meeting children where they are developmentally. It supports diverse learners, from toddlers exploring sensory play to preschoolers tackling STEAM challenges. Children in play-based programs often show strong social and cognitive outcomes, as they develop a genuine enthusiasm for learning. For parents exploring how to choose a childcare centre, programs with low educator-child ratios ensure educators can tailor play experiences to each child. The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and Free Kinder programs make quality play-based settings more accessible, allowing families to prioritize this approach. Supporting Play-Based Learning at Home Parents can reinforce play-based learning with simple activities: Create Play Spaces: Offer blocks, art supplies, or dress-up clothes for open-ended fun. Explore Together: Ask “What can we build?” to spark creativity during play. Go Outside: Dig, run, or collect leaves to inspire curiosity and movement. Celebrate the Process: Praise effort, like trying a new game, to build confidence. These practices complement a play-based early learning curriculum, supporting a child’s growth at home. Embracing Play for a Bright Future In 2025, play-based learning remains a powerful tool for early childhood development, blending joy with growth. By fostering cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills, it prepares children for school and nurtures a lifelong love for learning. As parents consider early education options, prioritizing play-based approaches can unlock a child’s full potential.

Outdoor play is more than just fun—it’s a vital part of every child’s growth. As children move, climb, and explore the world outside, they are developing essential skills that shape their physical, emotional, and cognitive wellbeing. In today’s fast-paced, screen-filled world, the value of outdoor play has never been greater. Here’s why it matters and what makes it a cornerstone of early learning programs. Physical Development Through Active Play Outdoor play is a natural way for children to build strength, coordination, and fine motor skills. Whether it’s navigating an obstacle course, digging in a garden, or chasing friends in a game of tag, children playing outdoors engage with their whole bodies. These activities enhance gross motor skills like running and jumping, while smaller tasks, like planting seeds or collecting leaves, refine fine motor abilities. Regular outdoor movement promotes healthy habits and helps children develop a lifelong love for being active. Within an Early Learning Centre program, children take part in sports classes designed to boost balance, agility, and teamwork. By playing outside, children not only improve their physical health but also gain confidence in their abilities which builds a strong foundation for their future learning and development. Emotional and Social Growth in Nature The outdoors offers a unique space for children to express themselves and build relationships. Within an Early Learning Centre, outdoor areas are designed to feel like an extension of home—safe, welcoming, and full of opportunities. Here, children learn to share, take turns, and collaborate, whether they’re building a sandcastle or working together in our vegetable garden. These interactions foster key skills for their time in school and beyond. Cognitive Benefits of Outdoor Exploration Outdoor play sparks curiosity and creativity in ways that indoor settings often can’t. When children investigate a bug, follow a trail, or imagine trees as a castle, they’re problem-solving and thinking critically. At an Early Learning Centre children experience this hands on through our garden-to-plate activities, where children plant, harvest, and even help prepare meals. This program teaches cause and effect, patience, as well as the joy of discovery. Studies show that outdoor play boosts attention spans and cognitive flexibility, especially in young children. By engaging with the unpredictable elements of nature—wind, textures, or changing seasons—kids learn to adapt and think on their feet. With a play-based approach these can be used to ensure that these lessons feel like adventures, not tasks. Why Community Kids Haven Prioritises Outdoor Play At Community Kids Haven, we weave outdoor play into our ‘every day’. Our centres feature inviting outdoor spaces where children can explore freely and safely. Our educators guide these experiences, ensuring each activity supports your child’s unique developmental journey. From sensory-rich gardens for toddlers to sports and art projects for kindergarteners, we create opportunities for growth at every stage. We invite you to see it for yourself! Book a tour at your nearest Community Kids Haven centre to discover how our outdoor programs inspire joy, learning, and connection. Let’s give your child the gift of outdoor play—a foundation for a bright, healthy future.

As your child grows and begins their transition from early learning to primary school, you may be wondering: Is my child ready for school? At Community Kids Haven, we understand how important this next step is for both children and families. School readiness goes beyond knowing the alphabet or being able to count—it’s about preparing children socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively for a successful start to their school journey. Here’s what school readiness really means and how to know if your child is on track. What Does “School-Readiness” Really Mean? School readiness refers to a child’s overall development and ability to cope with the demands of a school environment. This includes: Emotional regulation and social skills Basic independence and self-care Early language, literacy and numeracy awareness Physical coordination and motor skills Cognitive curiosity and attention span It’s not about being able to read or write fluently before school—it’s about giving your child the tools to adjust, participate, and thrive. Signs Your Child May Be Ready for School Here are some of the key indicators educators and families look for when assessing school readiness: 1. Social & Emotional Skills Can separate from parents or carers with minimal distress Can manage feelings with support and start to self-regulate Can play cooperatively with others and take turns Understands rules and routines 2. Communication Skills Speaks clearly enough to be understood by unfamiliar adults Can express needs, ideas, and questions Listens to stories and follows simple instructions 3. Cognitive Skills Shows curiosity and a desire to learn Can focus on a task for short periods Recognises basic shapes, colours, letters, or numbers Can recall and retell parts of a story or event 4. Physical Skills Holds a pencil or crayon with control Uses scissors and other tools safely Has good balance and coordination (e.g., climbing, running, hopping) Can use the toilet independently 5. Independence Manages belongings like a backpack or lunchbox Can dress themselves (e.g., shoes, jumpers) Takes responsibility for basic tasks like tidying up How We Support School Readiness at Community Kids Haven Our kindergarten and preschool programs are designed to build school readiness in a natural, play-based way. Led by qualified early childhood teachers and educators, our program includes: Structured group activities to support attention and listening Social play to build friendships and resilience Language and literacy-rich environments Opportunities to explore science, numbers, and problem-solving Independence-building routines and self-help tasks We work closely with families to provide feedback and support, so you feel confident that your child is on the right path. Not Every Child Develops at the Same Pace It’s important to remember that school readiness isn’t a checklist to complete—it’s a gradual process, and every child develops at their own pace. Some children may need extra time, support, or a second year of kindergarten to build confidence. That’s perfectly okay. If you’re unsure whether your child is ready for school, our educators and centre directors are here to help with honest, informed advice. Final Thoughts Starting school is a big step, and preparing your child for it is a journey best shared between families, educators, and the community. At Community Kids Haven, we’re committed to giving every child the best possible start. Want to know more about our school readiness programs or kindergarten rooms? Contact your nearest centre today to book a tour and meet our dedicated team.

If you’re dealing with a fussy eater at home, you’re not alone. Many toddlers and young children go through a phase where they’re more selective about what they eat. At Community Kids Haven, we support families through this common stage with patience, understanding, and practical strategies. Here’s what you need to know about fussy eating—and how to help your child develop a healthy relationship with food, without stress or pressure. What Causes Fussy Eating? Fussy eating is a normal part of child development. It often starts around 18 months to 3 years, when children become more independent and want to assert control over their choices—including food. Other common causes include: Changes in routine or environment Teething or feeling unwell Sensory sensitivity to textures or smells A natural decline in appetite as growth slows Most children outgrow fussy eating in time, especially when they’re given consistent exposure to a variety of foods. Top Tips for Supporting a Fussy Eater 1. Offer a Variety Without Pressure Serve small portions of familiar foods alongside new options—without demanding your child try everything. A no-pressure approach helps reduce anxiety and builds trust around food. 2. Stick to Regular Mealtimes Children thrive on routine. Offer three meals and two snacks each day at consistent times, and avoid grazing throughout the day so they come to meals hungry. 3. Make Mealtimes Positive and Social Sit together as a family when possible and model healthy eating. Children are more likely to try new foods when they see others enjoying them. 4. Avoid Making a Separate “Kids’ Menu” While it can be tempting to serve your child’s favourite foods every day, try to offer the same meals you’re eating, with minor adjustments if needed. This encourages flexibility and reduces pickiness over time. 5. Involve Your Child in Food Prep Children are more likely to try foods they’ve helped make. Let them rinse vegetables, stir ingredients, or choose between two healthy options. This builds curiosity and ownership. 6. Don’t Bribe or Force-Feed Avoid rewarding your child with dessert for eating vegetables or insisting they clean their plate. These tactics can backfire and create negative associations with food. What We Do at Community Kids Haven At Community Kids Haven, we take a supportive, child-led approach to mealtimes. Our educators: Offer a variety of healthy meals and snacks Encourage children to explore new foods at their own pace Create calm, social mealtimes where children feel safe to try Respect children’s preferences while gently introducing new options We work closely with families to understand each child’s dietary needs, cultural preferences, and eating patterns, so we can create a consistent and respectful approach. When to Seek Support If your child consistently refuses entire food groups, is not gaining weight, or becomes distressed at mealtimes, it may be helpful to speak to your GP, paediatrician, or a child nutritionist for individual advice. Final Thoughts Fussy eating is a normal part of growing up—but with the right support and a positive mealtime environment, most children learn to enjoy a wider range of foods in time. At Community Kids Haven, we’re here to partner with families to make mealtimes less stressful and more enjoyable. Want to learn more about how we support healthy eating at our centres? Contact your local Community Kids Haven centre for a tour and a chat with our educators today.

Toilet training is an exciting milestone in your child’s development—but it can also feel a little overwhelming. At Community Kids Haven, we understand that every child learns at their own pace, and we’re here to support families through every step of the journey. Whether your child is just starting to show interest in the potty, or you’re well into the process, here are some practical tips and gentle strategies to make toilet training a more relaxed and successful experience for everyone. When Should I Start Potty Training? There’s no universal age to begin toilet training, but many children show signs of readiness between 18 months and 3 years. Every child is different, so it’s important not to rush the process. Some signs your child may be ready include: Staying dry for longer periods Showing interest in the toilet or wearing underwear Communicating when they’ve done a wee or poo Hiding to do a poo or wanting to be changed right away Being able to follow simple instructions Starting when your child is developmentally ready will lead to a more positive experience for everyone involved. How to Start Toilet Training 1. Create a Routine Begin by introducing regular potty or toilet visits—such as after meals, before bath time, or every couple of hours. Consistency helps your child get used to the idea without pressure. 2. Choose the Right Equipment Whether it’s a small potty, a toilet insert, or a step stool, find what your child is most comfortable with. Let them help choose the equipment if possible—it can make them feel more involved. 3. Use Positive Reinforcement Celebrate small wins with lots of praise, encouragement, and gentle support. Try not to use punishment or negative language when accidents happen—they’re a normal part of learning. 4. Dress for Success Loose-fitting clothing or pants with elastic waists make it easier for your child to go to the toilet independently. Avoid tricky buttons or layers during this stage. 5. Be Prepared for Setbacks Toilet training takes time. There may be accidents, regressions, or days when your child doesn’t seem interested at all. Be patient, stay calm, and trust the process. How We Support Toilet Training at Community Kids Haven We work closely with families to support toilet training at childcare in a way that’s consistent with what’s happening at home. Our educators: Communicate with you about routines, signs of readiness, and progress Use age-appropriate strategies to encourage independence Maintain a relaxed, supportive environment to reduce pressure Help children feel confident and proud of their achievements We understand the importance of privacy, hygiene, and encouragement during this sensitive stage and work to make it a positive experience for every child. What If My Child Isn’t Ready? That’s perfectly okay. Readiness is more important than age. If your child isn’t showing interest or is becoming distressed about the process, it may be best to take a break and try again in a few weeks. Final Thoughts Potty training is a learning curve for both children and parents. With the right support, encouragement, and a little patience, your child will get there in their own time. At Community Kids Haven, we’re here to work alongside you, making sure your child feels safe, confident, and supported every step of the way. Speak to your centre’s educators to learn more about how we support toilet training in our toddler and kindergarten rooms.

Teething can be one of the most challenging stages for both babies and their parents. As teeth begin to push through the gums, many nursery-aged children experience discomfort, disrupted sleep, and changes in feeding. At Community Kids Haven, we understand how tough this time can be—and we’re here to help. Here’s what you need to know about teething and some safe, soothing remedies to support your little one through it. What Are the Signs of Teething? Most babies start teething between 4 to 7 months, though some start earlier or later. Common signs include: Swollen or tender gums Increased drooling Irritability or fussiness Chewing on fingers or toys Changes in feeding or sleeping habits Mild temperature (not a high fever) If you’re unsure whether it’s teething or something else, always check in with your child’s GP or maternal health nurse. Gentle and Effective Teething Remedies 1. Chilled Teething Toys Soft, silicone teething rings that have been refrigerated can offer cooling relief to sore gums. Avoid freezing toys, as they can become too hard and may damage your baby’s gums. 2. Cold Washcloth A clean, damp washcloth placed in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes makes a simple and effective teether. Your baby can safely chew and suck on the cloth for comfort. 3. Teething Rusks or Chilled Fruit For babies already on solids, unsweetened teething rusks or mesh feeders filled with cold fruit (like banana or apple) can help relieve gum pressure. Always supervise your child closely while eating. 4. Massage Their Gums Wash your hands thoroughly and gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger. The pressure can ease some of the pain and provide a calming sensory experience. 5. Extra Cuddles and Comfort Teething can leave your baby feeling unsettled and clingy. Offering more cuddles, rocking, or calm time together can go a long way in helping them feel safe and soothed. What About Teething Gels or Medication? While some parents choose over-the-counter teething gels, it’s important to follow medical advice and only use products recommended by your child’s doctor or pharmacist. Avoid any remedies with added sugars, alcohol, or unnecessary additives. Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be used occasionally to manage discomfort or sleepless nights—always under appropriate dosage and with professional guidance. Supporting Teething at Childcare At Community Kids Haven, our educators are experienced in recognising the signs of teething and providing gentle support throughout the day. We keep open communication with families and offer personalised care to ensure your child feels as comfortable as possible. If your baby is currently teething, feel free to share their routines, comfort items, or strategies that work at home—so we can support them consistently while they’re in our care. When to See a Doctor Mild teething symptoms are normal, but if your baby shows signs of: A high fever Diarrhoea or vomiting Refusal to feed Rash or prolonged irritability … it’s best to consult a GP to rule out other issues. Teething Is a Phase—You’re Not Alone The teething stage doesn’t last forever, but it can feel overwhelming in the moment. By offering your baby consistent care, soothing remedies, and lots of love, you’re giving them exactly what they need. If you have any questions or want to talk about how we support teething children in our nursery rooms, contact your nearest Community Kids Haven centre. We’re here to help every step of the way.

Changing childcare centres can be a big step for both children and families. Whether you’re relocating, moving closer to work, or looking for a centre that better suits your child’s needs, it’s natural to have questions about how to manage the transition smoothly. At Community Kids Haven, we understand how important it is to help children feel safe, confident, and connected during big changes. Here are our top tips for supporting your child when moving to a new childcare centre. 1. Talk About the Change in Advance Start by gently introducing the idea of the new centre. Use positive and reassuring language to help your child understand what to expect. Keep it simple and age-appropriate: “We’re going to a new place with new friends and teachers.” “You’ll have new toys to play with, and we’ll go see it together first.” Early conversations help children mentally prepare for change and feel included in the process. 2. Visit the New Centre Together Booking a tour or orientation visit is one of the most important steps in helping your child feel more comfortable. Many Community Kids Haven centres offer orientation sessions where your child can explore the environment, meet educators, and begin building trust in a relaxed way. Familiar faces and surroundings go a long way in reducing anxiety when your child starts officially. 3. Acknowledge Feelings and Provide Reassurance It’s normal for children to feel unsettled during a transition. You may notice more clinginess, changes in sleep or eating patterns, or emotional outbursts. These are all part of adjusting to something new. Reassure your child that their feelings are valid, and let them know you’re proud of them for being brave and trying something new. 4. Keep Routines Consistent Children thrive on routine. Keeping their morning and bedtime routines as predictable as possible during the transition provides a sense of security. If possible, maintain similar drop-off and pick-up times when moving between centres to create familiarity in their day. 5. Share Key Information With the New Educators Helping your child settle also means helping their educators get to know them well. Share any relevant routines, interests, comfort items, or past experiences with your new centre team. At Community Kids Haven, we value this partnership with families and use it to tailor our approach to each child’s unique needs. 6. Build New Relationships Gradually Settling into a new centre doesn’t always happen overnight. Encourage your child to make connections with their new peers and educators—but at their own pace. If your child has a special toy or comfort item, bring it along in the early weeks to help ease the transition. 7. Stay Positive and Patient Children often take their emotional cues from the adults around them. Speaking positively about the new centre, showing excitement, and staying calm if your child gets upset can make a big difference. Transitions take time, and every child adjusts differently. Patience, consistency, and open communication are key. Looking for a Supportive New Childcare Centre? At Community Kids Haven, we pride ourselves on creating welcoming, nurturing environments where children can thrive. If you’re transitioning to a new centre and want peace of mind, our experienced teams are here to support your child—and your whole family—every step of the way. Contact your local centre to book a tour or speak with one of our friendly educators about how we can make your transition a smooth and positive experience.