Welcoming all the brilliant, busy parents out there with little ones. Spots are now open for 2026 enrolments at our high-quality children’s centres in Belrose, Fairlight, and Seaforth.

Anyone with young kids knows how hard it can be to balance work life with looking after the little ones, especially in those very early years when they’re running circles around you.

Council’s early learning centres offer a safe, warm and supportive space where your children can learn, play, make friends and thrive. 

You’ll be at ease knowing that each of our centres either meets or exceeds the National Quality Standards. Belrose Children’s Centre has even received the highest possible rating in the National Quality Standard for its commitment to Excellence in early education and care.

All our centres provide a safe, stimulating, and interactive learning environment for your kids, and they’re all equipped with top quality resources including educational and play equipment.

And our passionate educators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to each of these spaces. They have all received formal education and qualifications and are experts at providing a warm and nurturing atmosphere for your children to develop social and emotional skills.

We understand that the first drop-off can be a big moment for both you and your child. So, we’ve compiled a few of our top tips below to help you on those first few tough days:

1. Spend time with your child at the centre before their first day. This is a perfect opportunity for both of you to get to know your educators, the environment and understand the day-to-day routines of the centre.
2. Although it can be upsetting as the parent, try to be enthusiastic about the experience if you can. Your child is highly in tune with you and will generally mirror your emotions, so if you’re excited and relaxed about the experience, it’s likely they will be too.
3. At drop off, ask your child to help you with a routine such as putting their hat in the basket, applying sunscreen or placing their drink bottle on the table. 
4. Spend a few minutes before you leave, engaging with your child in their favourite activity, be it reading a story or building with blocks at the centre.
5. Create a quick goodbye ritual, then leave straight away. Lengthening the process can often make your child more upset. It may be tempting to leave quietly if they are playing happily, but it’s important to say goodbye even if it causes tears.  
6. Tell your child when you will be back in a way they’ll understand, like after they finish afternoon tea. This helps to build trust by letting them know when they can expect to see you again.
7. Pack their items like dummies, teddies or blankets in a secure place. Have a chat with the educators to discuss bringing in a family photo to put up in the room. 

Enrol your child at one of our leading child care centres today and secure your spot for 2026. Spots can fill up fast, so please book early to avoid disappointment. 

And if you’re interested in a small group home-based approach to care, our Family Day Care service might be for you. Learn more about the service.