Hills Shire Council childcare centres provide safe, affordable, and enriching environments where young children can learn and grow. These centres focus on quality early childhood education, offering structured programs that support children’s social, emotional, and academic development.
With a strong emphasis on community values and inclusivity, Hills Shire Council childcare centres help children build essential skills for the future in a nurturing, secure setting. Families benefit from budget-friendly options, expert educators, and a curriculum that prepares children for school and lifelong learning.
Hills Shire Council childcare centres offer a range of benefits that support young children’s development and meet the needs of local families.
The council centres emphasise early childhood education to prepare children for future learning. They follow proven methods that help children develop essential skills, including social skills, language, and problem-solving.
“Early childhood education is the key to the betterment of society.” — Maria Montessori
Daily activities such as reading, counting, and creative play provide a strong learning foundation, while qualified educators make learning fun and engaging through hands-on activities that support skill-building. By focusing on high-quality early education, these centres give children a head start in school and beyond.
Research shows that children who participate in early childhood education are 25% more likely to graduate from high school. This foundational learning supports social, emotional, and academic development, preparing children for future success.
Council childcare centres offer quality care at prices families can afford. Since these centres are council-funded, costs remain lower than many private facilities, making them budget-friendly without compromising quality.
According to the Australian Government, families earning up to a certain threshold may be eligible for up to 85% childcare fee assistance, significantly reducing the cost burden. This support allows more families to access quality childcare services affordably.
Many families also qualify for subsidies, which further reduce costs, allowing more families to access these valuable resources.
Safety is a priority at all Hills Shire Council childcare centres, providing peace of mind for parents. Secure entrances ensure that only authorized individuals can enter, and regular cleaning and hygiene practices keep children healthy.
A 2022 study found that 95% of parents consider safety as the most important factor in choosing childcare. Centres with secure facilities, trained staff, and strict hygiene practices are rated highest by parents, reflecting the importance of these features in childcare choices.
Trained staff are equipped with first-aid knowledge and emergency procedures, ensuring that children can learn and play in a safe environment.
The preschool curriculum at Hills Shire Council centres is designed to prepare children for school in a fun and engaging way. Children follow a routine with activities focused on reading, counting, and creative play, helping them learn to share, make friends, and work in teams.
A study by the National Education Association found that children who attended preschool were 10% more likely to meet expected maths and reading standards in kindergarten. A structured preschool curriculum builds early literacy and numeracy skills, essential for academic success.
This curriculum supports children’s academic, social, and emotional readiness for school, providing them with a strong foundation for their educational journey.
Hills Shire Council childcare centres teach children about community values and respect for diversity. By celebrating local culture, helping children feel connected to their community, and teaching respect for different cultures and traditions, these centres foster an inclusive atmosphere.
“It takes a village to raise a child.” — African Proverb
Outdoor activities and nature walks also teach children to appreciate and respect the environment around them.
Selecting a childcare centre is an important decision for families. Here’s a guide to finding a centre that fits your family’s needs.
Consider these factors to help you find the right childcare centre: location, type of care needed, age-appropriate programs, affordability, and safety.
Choosing a centre close to home or work makes drop-offs and pick-ups more convenient, while selecting the appropriate type of care based on your family’s schedule and child’s developmental stage helps create a smooth experience.
| Factor | Key Considerations |
| Location | Choose a centre near home or work for convenience |
| Type of Care | Long-day or preschool hours depending on your needs |
| Safety | Look for secure entrances and clean, supervised spaces |
| Age-Appropriate Programs | Ensure programs fit your child’s development stage |
| Affordability | Benefit from council rates and potential subsidies |
Look for a secure environment with clean spaces and trained staff for added peace of mind.
Touring a centre gives you a sense of the environment and the staff. Observe how educators interact with the children and look for engaging classrooms with books, toys, and creative learning materials.
Safe, well-maintained outdoor spaces for physical activity are essential. Checking that the centre is clean and organised can reassure you of its commitment to providing a healthy environment.
Asking questions can give you valuable insights into the centre’s policies and programs. Find out about the preschool curriculum and ask how the centre supports each child’s growth.
Ensure that the educators are trained in early childhood education, and check if meals are provided and follow healthy guidelines. Ask about emergency plans and safety protocols for additional peace of mind.
Hills Shire Council childcare centres offer structured programs that support all areas of development, from literacy to social skills.
The programs emphasise hands-on learning, language development, and cognitive growth. Activities like building blocks and puzzles develop fine motor and problem-solving skills.
Storytelling and songs build vocabulary and encourage self-expression, while sorting shapes and counting introduce basic maths skills. This early education builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Preschool programs prepare children for school and help them build friendships. They introduce children to routines, allowing them to become familiar with a school-like structure, develop social skills, and engage in creative expression.
Activities focused on numbers, letters, and problem-solving build a strong learning foundation, which supports both academic and social growth.
The preschool curriculum covers essential skills in a balanced way. Literacy and language development through storytime and rhyming activities enhance language skills, while counting games introduce basic math concepts.
Simple science experiments and nature walks spark curiosity, and learning about feelings and friendships helps children develop empathy. This curriculum prepares children for a smooth transition to school.
Here are answers to common questions parents have about Hills Shire Council childcare centres.
Council childcare centres offer early childhood education programs, including long-day care, preschool programs, and special learning activities. These options provide flexibility for different family needs.
Council centres offer affordable childcare and a community focus, making them accessible and welcoming.
Yes, most centres provide nutritious meals and snacks that support children’s health and learning.
Enrolling is easy. Simply contact the centre, schedule a tour, complete the enrollment form, and meet with staff for any final questions. These steps help you start your child’s journey in a trusted, supportive environment.
Parental involvement is key to a child’s growth. Here are ways to support their development at home and in their childcare centre.
Set up simple daily activities, like reading or counting, to support your child’s learning. Reading every day builds vocabulary, and simple maths games at mealtime can introduce basic concepts. A regular routine builds confidence and helps children adjust to the schedule at childcare.
Attending events connects you with the staff and shows your child that you value their education. Meeting the educators and participating in activities strengthens your involvement in your child’s learning environment.
Play is essential for children’s development and helps them learn about the world. Drawing, painting, and pretend play foster creativity and problem-solving.
“Play is the highest form of research.” — Albert Einstein
Outdoor play, like nature walks, reinforces curiosity and respect for the environment, supporting what children learn in childcare.
Hills Shire Council childcare centres provide a supportive, affordable, and high-quality environment for young children. With structured programs, a focus on community values, and the guidance of trained educators, these centres are a trusted choice for families in Hills Shire.
By choosing a council centre, families give their children a strong start in life, supported by a community that values learning, safety, and inclusivity.
Sign up to receive our quarterly newsletters with the latest events and activities.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Country on which we gather today. By these words we show our respect to all Aboriginal people.
We acknowledge Elders past, present and emerging and the spirits and ancestors of the Clans that lived in this area.
