Here at Kidi Kingdom Child Care we understand that along with the excitement of Christmas this time of the year always seems to bring with it an added level of chaos (as if we weren't already busy enough!).

Most child care centres close down for some of the holiday period. I am here to inform you that we will not be closing down during the holiday period except on the gazetted public holidays. Our centre managers have already sent out to parents your re-enrolments for the next year.

To make sure you aren't caught short as the year draws to a close, here are a few key things you need to ensure are done before you pack up for the silly season.

1. Be Ready to Begin at Kidi Kingdom Child Care

If your child is starting at Kidi Kingdom Child Care for the first time in January, then get in touch with Kidi Kingdom before the end of the year to make sure all the paperwork and start dates are in place. It's a good idea to meet with your child's new educator to discuss routines, what your child needs to bring, and to raise any concerns or queries.

Aside from the practicalities, it's also important to prepare your child emotionally for their first day in care. To do this, the Raising Children Network recommends that several weeks before they start, you:

• Ask the service provider for a copy of their daily schedule and make this your child's daily routine at home by following the service's lunch, play and nap times.

• Find out who your child's main educator will be. Try to get a photo of them to show your child and mention them by name to build a sense of familiarity.

• Make short visits to the service so your child can get used to the child care setting, educators and toy collection.

• Talk positively about the service, the people and the activities. It helps to read or tell happy stories about starting child care and making friends.

2. Claim the Child Care Subsidy

Another very important thing is the Child Care Subsidy, which has replaced the Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate. If you are a new family using child care for the first time, you need to establish whether you're eligible for the Subsidy, and if so, complete a new claim form. For details about how to claim the Child Care Subsidy, click here.

Also, the No Jab, No Pay policy continues under the new scheme, so your child will need to fully be vaccinated, or on a catch-up schedule, to be eligible for the Subsidy.

3. Re-enrol for the New Year

If your child is returning to one of our Kidi Kingdom centres, you will need to re-enrol them to ensure they have a place in the New Year. This is an opportunity for you to book additional days!

4. Update your Child Care Subsidy Information

If your child is continuing to attend one of our Kidi Kingdom Child Care Centres, it's important that your Child Care Subsidy details are up-to-date. If your circumstances have changed, then you need to log on to Centrelink via myGov and tell the government about:

• Your child starting school next year.

• Changes to you or your partner's activity details or income.

• Changes to your care arrangements or personal circumstances.

• Your new address

5. Check for any Room Changes

Your child may be going into a new room come January, so check with your centre manager and child's educator about any changes to facilities, routines or procedures you should be aware of. It's worth visiting the new classroom ahead of time and discussing your child's particular needs with the teacher, for example, if they have an allergy or have any special requirements.

6. Prepare for School

If your child is making the move to big school, then you have a bit of parent homework!

• Speak with Kidi Kingdom Child Care about the transition.

• If you need vacation care, book your place at our centre.

• Share your contact details with any child care friends, especially if they're going to the same school.

• Double-check your school orientation pack and make sure you have everything in order before school starts, such as getting your child's uniform and school supplies, schools usually provide a list of what is needed.

• Say 'thanks' to your educators for the great start they've given your child.

Dear our valued families of Kidi Kingdom Child Care Centre - Springfield.

How quick the months seem to be passing us by! It will be Christmas before we know it! Since commencing with the centre I have had such a privilege to slowly build relationships with the children and families that I see each morning and afternoon!

Whilst I am thriving to get time within the rooms I will be planning experiences with the children in the coming weeks in each room. Each of our rooms have been reflecting on our spaces, ensuring that the children are engaged and keeping them stimulated with new environments and activities!

HALLOWEEN IS COMING! We really do love encouraging the children to dress up and express themselves through role play. This year we will be holding a 'Halloween Dress Up Day' on Thursday the 31st of October 2019. However, as always, we will be encouraging healthy choices throughout the day whilst the children are at the service.

2020 Enrolments forms are due now! A lot of families have sent them back to me which is great! This paperwork is crucial if you are wanting to secure your child's days for the new year! Please let me know if there are any concerns with the forms, I am always happy to assist.

Regards, Erika Eagleson Centre Manager

STAY UP TO DATE!