Kindergarten, preschool and day care: 5 reassuring truths mums should know

From snacks and outfits to activities and doctor’s visits, parents make countless decisions every single day — but choosing which early childhood education is right for your little one can feel especially daunting.

If you’re unsure how to make the best decision for your family, don’t panic. Here, we explain everything you need to know, from the difference between day care, kindergarten and preschool to what your child really learns at an early learning centre.

1. What’s the difference between day care, kindergarten and preschool?

Unless you’re in NSW or the ACT (where kindergarten marks the first year of formal education), there’s no real difference between kindergarten and preschool. Both terms refer to the government-approved early learning program delivered to children the year before they start full-time schooling.

Often led by schools or independent organisations, sessional (or community) kindergartens/preschools run during the school term and follow traditional school hours, which can be tricky for working families to navigate.  

On the other hand, long-daycare centres offer the same school-readiness programs as sessional kindergartens/preschools but are open year-round and enjoy extended operating hours. This makes them an ideal choice for busy parents.

2. Are childcare centres just as good as sessional kindergartens/preschools?

Absolutely. Long-daycare centres must adhere to the same National Quality Framework standards as sessional kindergartens/preschools, and both services follow the Early Years Learning Framework to guide child development.

Compared to community-led programs, long-daycare centres also offer significantly more flexibility. No matter which day or time your child attends, they’ll be exposed to an enriching program of educational, play-based activities.

3. Are the teachers at an early learning centre as qualified as those from a kindergarten/preschool?

Yes — all kindergarten/preschool programs, no matter where they are delivered, must be led by a degree-qualified early childhood teacher. These university-trained professionals not only help cultivate emotional and social development in your child, they also build and implement a comprehensive curriculum based on educational frameworks and your child’s needs and interests.

4. What will my child learn at long day care or kindergarten/preschool?

As well as working on their early literacy and numeracy skills, your child will also learn how to communicate with others, form friendships, regulate their emotions and strengthen their physical and fine-motor skills.

Despite the misconception that childcare centres simply “supervise” children, these services follow the same play-based curriculum as sessional kindergartens/preschools. In fact, thanks to long day care’s extended operating hours, children often have more opportunities to explore and build their skills.

5. How can I best support my child’s transition to school?

According to research, kids who receive quality early childhood education enjoy a smoother transition to formal schooling and perform better overall. 

No matter which care model you choose for your child, their attendance will help build a life-long love of learning — but long-daycare centres have their own advantages.

As well as making it easier for working families to access quality care, early learning centres also allow your child to attend from as young as six weeks old. This means your child can grow alongside their educators and classmates, which creates a sense of safety and security. Continuity of care also allows educators to paint a complete picture of your child’s growth and development, which can help future teachers better understand their strengths and needs.

Goodstart’s kindergarten and preschool programs are designed and delivered by bachelor-qualified teachers. They give children the skills and confidence they need to prepare them for school and for life. With 660 centres across Australia, you’ll likely find a Goodstart kindergarten or preschool near you. Book a tour at your local Goodstart centre to enrol.