When it comes to choosing a childcare centre in Brisbane, every parent wants peace of mind. You want a place that feels safe, nurturing, and enriching — where your little one will thrive socially, emotionally and developmentally. But with so many options out there, where do you start?
To help make the decision easier, we’ve created this practical checklist. Whether you’re exploring early learning for the first time or looking to move centres, these tips will guide your tour and support confident decision-making.
✅ 1. Is the Centre Approved and Accredited?
Look for services that are registered under the National Quality Framework (NQF) and meet the standards set by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). These centres are assessed on:
- Educational program & practice
- Children’s health & safety
- Physical environment
- Staffing arrangements
- Relationships with children
- Partnerships with families
- Governance & leadership
You can check a centre’s rating by visiting the Starting Blocks website.
✅ 2. What is the Daily Routine Like?
Ask to see a sample daily routine for your child’s age group. A strong program balances play, structured learning, quiet time and outdoor activity. Good signs to look for:
- Morning welcome and group time
- Rotations of indoor and outdoor play
- Language, music or movement sessions
- Rest or nap time (age appropriate)
- Opportunities for social development and child-led exploration
✅ 3. Do the Educators Seem Engaged and Qualified?
Take note of the team. Are they warm and responsive? Do they greet children by name? Ask about their qualifications:
- Are lead educators Diploma or Bachelor qualified?
- Is there a high staff retention rate?
- Are ratios in line with regulations?
The educators will shape your child’s experience, so it’s important to feel confident in their approach.
✅ 4. What Are the Learning Philosophies?
Different centres may follow different teaching philosophies, including:
- Play-based learning (most common in QLD)
- Montessori
- Reggio Emilia
- Steiner
Ask how the curriculum aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) or Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines (QKLG).
At Piptree, our centres offer a nurturing, play-based learning environment aligned with both frameworks.
✅ 5. Are the Facilities Clean, Safe and Engaging?
Tour the classrooms and outdoor spaces:
- Are there clearly defined play areas?
- Do children have access to books, blocks, art materials, puzzles?
- Are outdoor areas well-maintained and age-appropriate?
- Do you see examples of children’s artwork and learning on display?
Look for safety features like childproof gates, secure entry/exit points and clearly displayed emergency procedures.
✅ 6. How Does Communication Work?
Great centres partner with families. Ask how the centre keeps you informed:
- Daily updates via app (e.g. Storypark or OWNA)
- Photos and learning stories
- Parent-teacher interviews
- Newsletters or learning updates
✅ 7. What’s Included in the Fees?
Childcare fees can vary between suburbs and providers. Check what’s included:
- Nappies, wipes, sunscreen?
- Fresh meals and snacks?
- Extra-curriculars (e.g. yoga, music, languages)?
You can also use our Subsidy Calculator to estimate your Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
✅ 8. Are There Available Spaces or a Waitlist?
Ask about availability in your preferred days and rooms (infant, toddler, kindy). In Brisbane, popular centres often have waitlists — especially in growth suburbs like Sunnybank Hills or Eight Mile Plains.
✅ 9. Do You Feel Welcome and Supported?
Sometimes it just comes down to your gut feeling. Did the centre feel warm and friendly? Were your questions answered with care? Did your child show curiosity or feel at ease?
🧠 Final Thoughts
Choosing a childcare centre is one of the most personal parenting decisions you’ll make. Our best advice? Tour a few centres, ask questions, and take your time. The right fit is out there.
✨ Want to get started? Explore our Piptree locations and book a tour today.
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