Who Can Get CSS?

To be eligible for Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families must meet the following criteria:

• Parents must:

  • Care for their child for at least 2 nights per fortnight or have a 14% share of care.

  • Be liable for child care fees at an approved child care service.

  • Meet residency requirements.

• Your child must:

  • Meet immunisation requirements.

  • Not be attending secondary school (unless an exemption applies).

  • Be 13 years old or younger (except in certain circumstances).If a child does not attend a session of care at least once every 26 consecutive weeks, they will lose their CCS eligibility.

If the child starts attending care again, the family can make a new claim for CCS.

How Much CCS Can a Family Get?

The amount of CCS a family can receive depends on their circumstances:

• Income Limit: Families with a combined income up to $533,280 are eligible for CCS. The subsidy amount decreases as income increases.

• CCS Rates from 8 July 2024:

  • Family income $0 to $83,280: 90%

  • Family income more than $83,280 to below $533,280: Subsidy decreases from 90% by 1% for every $5,000 of additional income.

  • Family income $533,280 or more: 0%

Number of Children in Care

Families with more than one child aged 5 or under in care can receive a higher subsidy for their second and younger children. The rates for each child are calculated using two separate income tests:

• Standard Rate Child: Usually the eldest CCS-eligible child aged 5 or under, receiving the standard CCS rates.

• Higher Rate Child: The second and any younger children aged 5 or under, who receive a higher subsidy.

The higher subsidy for second and younger children will end when the family's income reaches $362,408 or more.

For more details on how Child Care Subsidy can support your family's child care needs, please contact us.

Support for Families Experiencing Temporary Financial Hardship

Do you have families experiencing temporary financial hardship at your service? They may be able to get extra help with the cost of child care.

Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) temporary financial hardship is for families who:

• are eligible for CCS

• are experiencing temporary financial hardship due to an event in the last 6 months

• have a substantially reduced ability to pay child care fees.

Eligible families can get 100 hours of subsidised care each fortnight. They'll get the lower of either:

• 100% of the fee charged where it's equal to or below the hourly rate cap

• up to 120% of the hourly rate cap where the fee charged is above the hourly rate cap.

The temporary financial hardship subsidy is paid for a maximum of 13 weeks per event.

Families can apply through their Centrelink online account or by visiting a Centrelink office.

We have information about ACCS temporary financial hardship for providers on our website.

Dear Valued Centre Families,

We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new families that have joined our little community here at Kidi Kingdom Child Care Springfield! Thank you for your ongoing support throughout the term. It has been wonderful getting to know you and sharing moments of fun during pick up and drop off with your little ones. It is heartwarming to see them leave at the end of the day, content and happy as they greet and wave goodbye to everyone.

At the centre we also had the pleasure of hosting Showtime Stars Entertainment, who joined us for a wonderful morning of indigenous culture talks complimented by interactive dance and music.

We would like to give a special thank to our wonderful families who joined us for our Aunts and Uncles Day. We heard lovely comments about the experiences and the set up for the morning and we hope that you all had a great time with your nieces and nephews.

As we pride ourselves in providing high quality education and care, we are always striving to be the best at what we do and always working to improve on our current practices under the National Quality Framework in our centres. It is important for our families to be an integral part of our annual review of our policies and procedures and we highly value our families' input into our quality improvement procedures. The centre policies and procedures are available in the centre's reception area along with our Quality Improvement Plan for you to peruse. We appreciate your support and commitment to our centres and thank you for playing a vital role in the quality education and care of your children and for helping us grow within the wider community. As you would have noticed, we have also set up a feedback station in our foyer to enable our families to provide feedback on the 7 Quality Areas of National Quality Framework. Please feel free to take these sheets to fill in and return to us.

We are thrilled to share some fantastic news from our recent food safety audit. Miss Sarah and the kitchen team have received high praise for their exemplary work. Maintaining such high standards in food safety is crucial and it is wonderful to see their hard work and dedication recognized. This success not only ensures the safety and well being of the children but also builds trust with our families. A big congratulations to Miss Sarah and the entire team for this outstanding achievement!

Please if you have any questions or concerns feel free to approach me at reception or simply email us at s@kidikingdom.com.au. Please head over to our Facebook page and we always appreciate our loyal families helping our centre by sharing your positive experiences to the local community by writing a quick 5 star Google, CareForKids or Facebook review.

Kind Regards, Ms Natalie Andrews Centre Manager Miss Chrystle Smith Assistant Centre Manager

Click here to visit our pages at Facebook and Instagram

Dear Valued Centre Families,

It has been wonderful to hear about the children's experiences under the Early Years Learning Framework here at Kidi Kingdom Child Care Springfield. I have been spending time observing the children in their classroom and outdoor play environments and witnessing their social interactions recently has been invaluable in curating the educational program for the remainder of the year which will include the integration of creative arts, cooking, health, culture, numeracy, literacy and sustainability to help the children develop a wider range of skills as part of the curriculum. It is great to see a current focus on their social and emotional skills, which are crucial for their overall development.

Our belief in the collaborative efforts of families and educators aligns with best practices in early childhood education and I would like to encourage feedback from our families on your children's observations, photos and daily news feeds.

In the coming months, the wonderful team of educators and myself will be focusing on gaining a deeper understanding of the EYLF V2.0 in order to provide more child focused learning. Following children's interests and family input will ensure a more holistic approach to the development of children including confidence, better self identity and cultural understanding as well as social and emotional maturity. By doing this educators can then add to their learning with core subjects such as early mathematics, early science, language, culture and self help skills.

We also received a very nice surprise from Dental2You in the mail last term. A certificate of appreciation was received from Dental 2 You for supporting and establishing positive dental habits with the children. During the next term we will have a small workshop for all children to be involved on how to look after their teeth. Please welcome Mr Teeth and Mr Crocodile.

Thank you to all of our families for your continuous support and trust in the care and education of your children.

Kind Regards, Ms Chrystle Educational Leader

Dear Valued Families of the Early Learners Room,

It has been a fun filled few months here in the Nursery room as we focused on play based learning, achieving developmental milestones and fostering creativity. We are excited to share with you all the exciting activities and themes we have explored and give you a glimpse of what's coming up next month in August.

In the month of June, our little ones explored the fascinating world of animals, birds and fruits. Activities included learning about different animals through stories, songs, crafts and painting. The children loved creating their own animals by transforming them into colourful masks and learning animal sounds. We watched birds from our yard and also learned about Australian native birds, their colours, and their sounds. We even tried sensory feather painting, which the children, by their expressions, found to be fascinating. Fruit stamping proved to be a popular experience as the children particularly enjoyed using plastic fruits to make colourful patterns. We also had a fruit tasting session, where the children experienced different tastes and textures - another boost to their sensory skills!

We continued focusing on counting from 1 to 5 through engaging activities such as number puzzles, counting songs and a balloon pasting activity where children matched numbers to their colourful balloons with the educator's help. We celebrated NAIDOC week, honouring the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The children engaged in experiences such as "Foot Print Walking" (symbolizing walking together). This expanded their sensory awareness and introduced them to Aboriginal culture, "Aboriginal Art Rattles" , exploring sound and rhythm through dance and movement and also painting boomerang cutouts to enhance fine motor skills.

This term has been packed with fun and meaningful activities that the children have thoroughly enjoyed:

• Teddy Bear's Picnic Day

We kicked off the term with a special celebration where the children gathered with their favorite teddy bears to paint teddy bear pictures. In the afternoon, we headed outdoors for a delightful picnic. The children had a wonderful time holding up their teddy bears and sharing a special tea time with their peers, creating a memorable experience filled with laughter and joy.

• Pyjama Day

Pyjama Day was a cozy and relaxing event! Both children and staff came dressed in their favorite pajamas, and we spent the day enjoying comforting activities like storytelling and building pillow forts. It was a day full of warmth, comfort and relaxation.

• Aunts and Uncles Day

We also celebrated Aunts and Uncles Day with a lively party in the outdoor yard. The children engaged in crafts, games, and storytelling to honor these special family members. It was a wonderful day filled with love and appreciation, making lasting memories for everyone involved.

• Free Choice Play

As we wrap up the month of July, we are focusing on free-choice play, encouraging the children to explore and share toys with their peers. This initiative promotes creativity, social skills, and cooperation, helping the children develop important social and cognitive skills in a fun environment.

We look forward to continuing the excitement and learning in the upcoming months!

In August, we explored the topic of My Family. We created family trees, helping children understand family relationships and identity.

Kind Regards, Miss Anum Early Learners Room Educator

Dear Valued Families of the Junior Early Years Room,

We hope you are all doing well! The past months in the Junior Early Years have been wonderful, filled with enjoyable play based learning and creative activities. We are excited to update you on all the fun themes and activities we have explored.

In June, your little ones delved into the fascinating worlds of animals: Farm and Sea Animals. We explored various animals through stories, songs, crafts, and painting. The children enjoyed creating their own animals through doing different crafts, painting colorful masks and learning animal sounds.

We learned about the different types of animals in a farm through reading stories that talked about the life of the different farm animals. We then engaged in various activities to let the children explore the world of Sea Animals as well. Activities included Ocean Creation Craft, Catching Colorful Fishes through the use of magnets and Tuff Tray Sensory Ocean displays. As we learned these topics, children also enhanced their cognitive, sensory, social and emotional development. Fine and Gross motor skills and gained knowledge of our natural world.

To honour the long history, vibrant culture, and remarkable achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the children engaged in a variety of enriching activities in celebration of NAIDOC week.

The following are only some of the events that the children have been engaging in: National Red Nose Day Children engaged in creating red noses from eco friendly materials and offer them a hands on opportunity to explore their creativity and enhance fine motor skills. This activity will also serve as a gentle introduction to the concepts of caring, helping others, and the significance of Red Nose Day, making these ideas accessible and relatable to our young little ones.

National Science Week

Our young ones engaginged in sensory play activities which will incorporate colour, smell, sound and textures while also enhancing their motor skills. Provided with a range of age-appropriate activities including creative play-based programs that stimulate the senses and allow them to explore. Children's Book Week - Read, Grow and Inspire - During this week-long event, children dressed up as their favourite book characters, fostering a love for reading and unlocking boundless opportunities for growth and inspiration.

Kind Regards, Miss Fei and Miss Chloe Junior Early Years Room Educator

Dear Valued Families of the Early Years Room,

A warm welcome to all our new families that have joined us over the last few months. We hope your child is enjoying their time and learning with us.

In June, the children explored the colours of the rainbow. They learned not only the names of each colour, but also the meaning and significance behind them. Through various activities, the children practiced saying the names of the colours and understanding how they combine to create the rainbow. They engaged in creative projects, such as painting and drawing rainbows. Story time and interactive games also played a role in helping them remember and pronounce the colour names correctly. This comprehensive approach ensured that the children not only recognised each colour but also appreciated its place in the natural world.

In July, the children learned about NAIDOC Week, an important celebration in Australia that recognizes and celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, and the week is marked with various activities, including educational programs, cultural performances, art exhibitions and community events. The children were introduced to the significance of this week and its importance in promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures.

Following NAIDOC Week, the children explored the culinary traditions of various cultures. They engaged in numerous activities that involved creating and naming foods from different parts of the world. These activities not only introduced them to new flavors and cooking techniques but also provided an opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of different dishes. Through hands-on experience, the children gained a deeper appreciation for the diversity of global cuisines and the traditions behind them.

In August, we engaged in space exploration. The children engaged in a range of space exploration related events and activities. The first activity was one the children liked, making moons with used, crumpled silver bubble wrap to simulate the surface roughness of the moon. In this exercise, we used a moon chart to discuss the many phases of the moon. The second activity involved making our own galaxies. To symbolise space, we painted paper plates black. When the paint was dry, we placed the various cutouts to their galaxies and discussed the planets and the order in which they orbit. Another activity the students engaged in was making playdough. Each child received assistance by adding the various components that go into making the play doh texture. Once the Play- doh was made, each of the children got to use space themed cookie cutters to unleash their creative skills.

Kind Regards, Miss Rianon and Miss Raman Early Years Room Educators

Dear Valued Families of the Senior Early Years Room,

We would like to welcome new families to the Senior Early Years Room. I have been working very closely with our new students, particularly in getting to know their strengths, interests and their routines. We are pleased to see how well the children have settled into their new environment and how they have built connections with educators and new peers with some support and guidance.

For the month of June we focused on a stronger sense of belonging through various activities. We also raised awareness about different species conservation. The children were fascinated with how it represents life's greatest transition among insects. This was also a great way to explore colour patterns and shapes as a fun activity. We celebrated "Best Friends Day", which creates a stronger sense of belonging and appreciating the importance of friendship.

For the month of July the children have been engaged in activities to celebrate NAIDOC week which saw us appreciating Indigenous Art and storytelling and exploring our diverse culture through creativity and imagination. We have also celebrated a Teddy Bear's Picnic, Pyjama Day and in addition to this, we enjoyed planned activities based on the children's ideas and interests.

For the month of August we looked forward to celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Children's day, Science week and Children's Book week. Experiences included making fun crafts, participating in yarning circles as a way to enhance children's knowledge and to focus each child taking turns in sharing their ideas and thoughts. We also aim to familiarise them with basic scientific vocabulary and make sense of the world around them. Their smart minds never cease to amaze me with how well they retain the new information they have learned!

As always, if there's anything you would like to contribute or any suggestions you may have for our program, whether it be cultural based, traditional or your child's interests, please let me know.

We also ask our lovely parents to please make sure your children have a jumper, shoes and their own hat as we are still playing outside when it warms up in the mornings and afternoons. I also ask that you please ensure your child's belongings are clearly named.

Kind Regards, Miss Raquel and Miss Sunny Senior Early Years Educator

Dear Valued Families of the Kindergarten Room,

We are through most of this year and it has been a whirlwind of exciting events and activities, with even more to look forward to. Our Kindergarten children have been enthusiastically participating in a variety of enriching experiences, expanding their understanding of the world around them. The children have delved into diverse topics including space, our bodies, insects, healthy eating and different cultures, all while focusing on their individual interests.

In June, we marked National Best Friends' Day with activities designed to celebrate and reinforce the importance of friendship. We also celebrated National Yoga Day, where the children practiced yoga exercises and breathing techniques to promote calmness and well being.

July was a vibrant month with several highlights. We observed NAIDOC Week, dedicated to celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The children engaged in activities that deepened their understanding of these rich cultures and contributed to a "Wall of Fame" showcasing notable achievements by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals. We also enjoyed a charming Teddy Bear's Picnic, where the children brought their favourite soft toys and shared a delightful morning tea. A special favourite was our PJ Day, where the children donned their cosiest pyjamas for the day. Additionally, we hosted a lovely morning tea for Aunts and Uncles, featuring a range of engaging activities and delicious refreshments.

August, we celebrated National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day with a range of engaging activities. National Science Week offered the children hands on experiences with science and experiments, fostering curiosity and wonder. Children's Book Week encouraged the children to dress as their favourite book characters, celebrating their love of reading. To finish off the month, we hosted a Father's Day afternoon tea to honour and appreciate all the father figures in our community.

Taking on the role of Early Childhood Teacher has been an exciting journey filled with both challenges and immense rewards. Each day brings new experiences and opportunities to make a positive impact on the children's lives, making this role truly fulfilling. Witnessing your children's growth and learning has become an integral part of my experience and I am immensely proud of the progress we've made and the strong bonds we've formed. I look forward to the adventures and achievements that the rest of the year will bring.

Kind Regards, Miss Maddison and Miss Cindy Kindergarten Teachers

Dear Valued Families of Kidi Kingdom Springfield,

It has been such a delight for me to step into the role of centre cook and I love sharing nutritious and tasty meals with all of our friends and educators here at Kidi Kingdom. Our favourite dishes currently are Alfredo Pasta, Teriyaki Chicken and Lasagne with salad.

Our centre menu is currently in review, so if our families have any questions or suggestions, I will be more than happy to have a chat at drop off and pick up. I am here between 8am and 3pm so feel free to just pop over to the kitchen window!. At Kidi Kingdom we highly value our families input and we appreciate your feedback.

Also, if any of our families have any new special dietary requirements for your children, please let me know and we can discuss implementing a suitable alternative.

Kind Regards, Miss Sarah Centre Cook

Carpet Cleaning

Step 1

Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

Step 2

Cut 6 bacon slices into quarters lengthways and crossways (you'll have 1 rasher leftover from pack). Cut pineapple slices into quarters. Wrap each pineapple piece with bacon, overlapping on top and securing with a toothpick. Place on tray, standing pieces upright. Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile, stack 3 cheese slices together and cut into 16 small squares. Cut the remaining whole slice in half and stack with the other half-piece to make 3 layers. Cut into 8 small squares.

Step 4

Remove tray from oven. Thread each cheese stack onto one toothpick, pushing down so it sits on the bacon. Bake for 3 minutes or until just melted. Sprinkle very lightly with paprika, if using. Transfer to a plate and serve warm.