Great News for Families !

CCS Activity Test changes starting January 2026

All Families will be eligible for at least 3 Days Guarantee per Week regardless of their activity levels*

The Australian Government is replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test from January 2026 to guarantee at least 3 days of subsidised early childhood education and care (ECEC) each week for children who need it.

How will this initiative work?

From January 2026, all families will be eligible for at least 72 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight (3 days per week), regardless of their activity levels.

Families can still get 100 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight if they meet activity requirements or have a valid exemption.

Families caring for a First Nations child will be eligible for 100 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight.

Why is this important?

The 3 Day Guarantee will support universal access to ECEC and help ensure more children are school-ready. It will also provide targeted cost-of-living relief to families.

The Productivity Commission's final report, A path to universal early childhood education and care (released September 2024), was clear that the children and families most likely to benefit from ECEC are the least likely to attend.

Who will benefit?

The 3 Day Guarantee will benefit all families through certainty around eligibility for subsidised ECEC.

In its first full financial year the 3 Day Guarantee will benefit around 66,700 families, and more than 100,000 families will be eligible for additional hours of subsidised care.

Families earning over $533,280 in 2024-25 are not eligible for subsidised care - consistent with current settings.

Dear Valued Centre Families,

We are delighted to share some exciting updates and upcoming opportunities at Kidi Kingdom Child Care Pimpama. This term has already brought an abundance of learning, exploration and community connection. We are proud to continue offering a nurturing environment where your child can thrive. Stay connected with us for further updates and as always, our doors are open should you have any questions or suggestions.

Launching Bush Kindy - Nature as Our Classroom

We are thrilled to announce the commencement of our Bush Kindy program, beginning next month for our Kindergarten-aged children. This nature-based learning initiative provides children with meaningful outdoor experiences that support resilience, independence, and a deep connection to the natural world. Held weekly in a safe and supervised bushland setting, children will explore, discover, and grow through unstructured play and environmental education.

Transition Into Prep Program

Our Transition to School (TIP) Program is now in full swing. This program is specifically designed to support Kindergarten children as they prepare for the next stage of their educational journey. A key highlight includes our excursions to Bunnings, where children are engaging in purposeful, hands on activities that build problem solving skills, confidence and curiosity. These are core competencies for school readiness.

At Kidi Kingdom Child Care Pimpama, our curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, ensuring every activity is meaningful and developmentally appropriate. From STEM learning and language development to music, art, and cultural exploration, our educators create engaging experiences that foster creativity, critical thinking and emotional wellbeing.

At our centre, the health and wellbeing of every child remains our top priority. We continue to uphold the highest standards of hygiene and safety to ensure a clean and nurturing environment. Regular handwashing, proper sanitisation of toys and surfaces, and adherence to health guidelines are part of our daily routine. We kindly remind families to keep children at home if they are unwell and to notify us promptly of any contagious conditions. By working together, we can maintain a safe, healthy space where every child can thrive.

We encourage you to view our classroom displays and daily journals, where you will see how play and intentional teaching work hand-in-hand to support each child's learning journey.

We love sharing the magic happening inside our centre! Please take a moment to like and share our latest Facebook post to help more families learn about the care and education we provide.

We've also introduced special notices displayed near the sign-in/out tablets to keep you updated on upcoming events, room updates, and reminders. Be sure to check in regularly so you don't miss a thing.

Please if you have any questions or concerns feel free to approach me at reception or simply email us at p@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, Sarah Piccolini Centre Manager	Click here to visit our pages at Facebook and Instagram

Dear Valued Centre Families,

As the Educational Leader at Kidi Kingdom Child Care Pimpama, I am excited to share some of the meaningful work happening across our centre this term. Our team continues to place a strong focus on Quality Area 1 - Educational Program and Practice, ensuring that every child is supported through intentional, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

At the heart of our program is a commitment to building strong, respectful relationships with both children and fellow educators. We know that when children feel safe, valued and connected, they are more confident to explore, create and learn. Our educators take the time to really get to know each child, what they enjoy, what challenges them and what makes them feel a sense of belonging. These relationships form the foundation of everything we do.

As a team, we are also working collaboratively to strengthen our professional partnerships. Regular planning meetings, shared reflections and ongoing learning help us align our practices and stay focused on high quality outcomes for children.

It is inspiring to see educators supporting one another and sharing ideas to enhance the learning environment.

Our educational program is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and shaped by each child's interests, strengths, and developmental needs. We are intentional in designing experiences that promote exploration, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Whether it's through sensory play, inquiry-based projects, language-rich environments, or nature walks, we ensure each child is actively engaged and encouraged to make meaning from their world.

Warm Regards, Samantha Knightbridge Educational Leader

Dear Valued Centre Families,

It has been a joy to watch our littlest learners continue to grow, explore, and thrive in the Nursery Room this term. At Kidi Kingdom Child Care Pimpama, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing, secure, and stimulating environment for our 0-2 year olds, where every child feels safe, valued and supported in their early development.

In these foundational years, our focus is on building strong and responsive relationships with each child. Through warm and consistent interactions, our educators are attuned to the individual needs, cues and rhythms of every child in our care. This secure attachment forms the basis for emotional wellbeing and supports confident exploration and early learning.

Our educational program is guided by Quality Area 1 - Educational Program and Practice, and the principles of the Early Years Learning Framework. While learning in this age group often happens through everyday routines and play, our educators intentionally plan rich experiences that promote:

• Sensory exploration through texture trays, water play, and natural materials.

• Language development through songs, stories, and one-on-one conversations.

• Physical growth through tummy time, crawling spaces, and supported movement.

• Social and emotional development through comforting, role modelling, and creating a calm, predictable environment.

We also work closely with families to ensure a smooth transition between home and care and to share each child's unique achievements, whether it is a first word, a new movement or simply moments of joy and connection.

As part of our ongoing commitment to quality, our educators regularly reflect on their practice, share observations and adapt the program based on each child's evolving interests and developmental progress.

We are honoured to be part of your child's earliest learning journey and thank you for trusting us with this important stage of their lives.

Kind Regards, Ms Sinead Early Learners Lead Educator

Dear Valued Centre Families,

This term we have been thrilled to witness many wonderful milestones as our toddlers continue to grow, learn and explore their world. The toddler stage, between the ages of 1 and 2, is a period of remarkable growth, curiosity and discovery. Children at this stage experience significant leaps in their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. They are increasingly eager to explore their surroundings, assert their independence and connect with the people around them.

Physical Development:

Many toddlers have begun walking confidently, climbing and developing better balance and coordination. These new motor skills open up a world of opportunities for active play and exploration. We have observed a growing sense of pride as toddlers attempt to climb furniture, stairs and navigate new spaces with increasing independence.

Cognitive Growth:

Cognitively, toddlers are making meaningful connections with their environment. Their understanding of language is rapidly expanding as they are starting to follow simple directions, respond to familiar questions and use words or gestures to express their needs and emotions. As they engage with sensory materials, problem solving toys and pretend play, we see their curiosity ignite and their critical thinking skills develop.

Social and Emotional Development:

Socially and emotionally, toddlers are learning to engage with others. Many are beginning to engage in parallel play, where they play alongside their peers and may imitate actions, show empathy and start to recognise the feelings of those around them. This early foundation is essential for developing more complex social skills in the future. Emotion regulation and developing a sense of self are key milestones during this stage. Toddlers may assert preferences, test boundaries and experience big emotions, this is all part of healthy emotional development. Our educators work closely with each child to provide comfort, consistency and gentle guidance during these important learning moments.

With each milestone, we see growing confidence and joy in the children as they begin to better understand themselves and the world around them. It is a privilege to support them through this exciting phase of life.

Developmental Milestones (1-2 Years):

Here are some of the key milestones we've observed and supported recently:

1. Physical:

• Taking first steps or walking independently

• Attempting to climb furniture and stairs with assistance

2. Language and Cognitive:

• Using a few meaningful words and starting to combine two word phrases

• Following simple instructions and responding to familiar questions

• Exploring sensory materials, problem solving toys and pretend play

3. Social and Emotional:

• Engaging in parallel play and beginning to imitate others

• Recognising familiar people, routines and objects in their environment

• Feeding themselves using fingers and starting to use a spoon

Each of these milestones represents an important step in your child's unique learning journey. We are so excited to continue supporting their growth and discovery throughout this term.

Kind Regards, Ms Melinda, Ms Jenna and Ms Ramandeep Junior Early Learners Educators

Dear Valued Centre Families,

As your little adventurers reach that exciting 2-3 year milestone, they are exploring the world around them in exciting new ways! At this stage, we know children are curious about everything-from bugs and big trucks to the foods they eat. So why not make learning about these things as fun and educational as possible?

1. Crunching on Healthy Foods!

At this age, children are becoming more independent eaters and are learning to love (or maybe dislike) different flavour. One of the best ways to encourage healthy eating is by introducing colorful fruits and veggies! Apples, strawberries, cucumbers and carrots are not just yummy, they are packed with the vitamins and nutrients that help your child grow big and strong.

Fun Tip: Turn snack time into a "fruit and veggie safari." Show your little one how to "hunt" for different foods in the kitchen, just like a bug hunter looking for cool critters!

2. Bugs and Insects: Nature's Tiny Superheroes!

Bugs are fascinating and the children at this age are starting to notice the little critters buzzing, crawling and hopping around. Did you know that insects like ants, bees and butterflies play a huge role in helping our food grow? By learning about these tiny creatures, children can start understanding how everything in nature works together.

Fun Fact: Did you know that bees help flowers bloom and give us delicious fruits like peaches and

strawberries? Bees are nature's pollinators and they are super important in making sure we have food to eat!

3. Big Trucks and Cars: Vroom, Vroom!

What's better than hearing your little one shout "Vroom, vroom!" while zooming around the house? At this age, children love anything with wheels. Cars, trucks, and buses are not only fun, but they are also a great opportunity to teach your children about the world of transportation and where vehicles go. Want to get even more creative? Turn a car into a "veggie delivery truck" that is transporting all those healthy snacks!

Fun Challenge: Next time you are outside, go on a "vehicle scavenger hunt." See if you can spot a garbage truck, fire truck, or even a cement mixer!

Why It All Matters:

Eating healthy, exploring nature and learning about the world of cars and trucks are all exciting ways to keep your little one engaged and developing important skills. These experiences teach your child about caring for their body, respecting the environment and understanding how things work. Whether it is what's on their plate or what's on the road.

We hope these ideas will inspire you to make every day a new adventure with your toddler. There's so much to discover, and it's all about learning through play and having fun!

Until next time, keep exploring and enjoying the ride!

Kind Regards, Miss Amber and Ms Manpreet Junior Early Years Educators

Dear Valued Centre Families,

At our Early Learning Centre, we are constantly striving to create an enriching and engaging learning experience for our young explorers. This month, we are excited to dive deep into our new thematic units, which are sure to spark curiosity and encourage a love of learning.

Under the Sea Adventure:

Our little ones are setting sail on an underwater journey to discover the magical world beneath the waves. Through stories, songs and hands on activities, children will learn about sea creatures like fish, turtles and octopuses. They will explore the concept of habitats and how animals adapt to their environment, all the while developing important language and motor skills.

Dinosaurs: A Roar of Discovery:

Next, we will travel back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth! Children will be fascinated as we uncover the different types of dinosaurs, their sizes and their unique features. Interactive games, art projects and exciting storytelling will help them understand the prehistoric world while enhancing their ability to recall and describe information.

Insects: The Tiny World Around Us:

Finally, our young learners will get up close and personal with the tiny creatures all around us. From ants to butterflies, we will study insects and how they live. Children will delight in observing real life insects, learning about their life cycles and practicing their observation and fine motor skills through bug inspired crafts.

Introducing the Parent Input Traveling Yellow Bus:

We are thrilled to introduce a fun and interactive initiative. The Parent Input Traveling Yellow Bus! This special bus will take home on weekends, inviting families to contribute to our learning themes. You will receive a fun kit full of themed materials to explore with your child at home. Share your child's experiences with us when they return the bus the following week! This is a wonderful opportunity for you to actively participate in their educational journey while fostering a love of discovery outside of the classroom.

Ages 2-3 Years: At this age, children are eager to explore their world. Our curriculum is designed to nurture their curiosity, promote their cognitive and social development and encourage early literacy skills. Each activity is carefully crafted to be both age appropriate and engaging, ensuring that every child is learning through play and hands on experiences.

Thank you for your continued support in creating an enriching and joyful learning environment for our little ones. We look forward to seeing all the exciting discoveries they will make as they embark on these educational adventures!

Kind Regards, Ms Rebecca and Ms Kylie Early Years Educators

Dear Valued Centre Families,

What an exciting time it is in our classroom! Our bright and curious 3 year olds are growing before our eyes, physically, emotionally, socially and academically. As we work on those all important 3 to 4 year old milestones, we are laying the foundation for confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of learning. And guess what? We're having so much fun doing it!

🚀 Growing Big Skills in Small Moments

From building towers to storytelling, every part of our day is intentionally designed to nurture your child's next big leap. Here is what we're focusing on this season:

✅ Language & Communication:

Children are becoming little chatterboxes! We are practicing full sentences, learning to take turns in conversations and using language to express feelings and solve problems. You might notice your child telling stories with a beginning, middle and the end. They are becoming mini-narrators of their world!

✅ Fine & Gross Motor Development:

Whether it's using scissors, painting with purpose, hopping on one foot or balancing on a beam, we are building muscles and motor skills through play. It is all about coordination, control and confidence!

✅ Imagination & Cognitive Play:

Pretend play is BIG at this stage and for good reason. It helps with emotional processing, social understanding and flexible thinking. We are guiding children to stretch their creativity, solve puzzles, ask questions and think like curious little scientists.

✅ Social & Emotional Growth:

We are practicing cooperation, sharing, managing emotions and building friendships. Learning how to play with others (not just next to them) is a huge milestone and we are guiding children with warmth, patience and care.

What You Can Do at Home

• Ask open-ended questions: "What did you like best today?"

• Encourage self-help skills: "Can you zip your coat all by yourself?"

• Read together every day-it fuels vocabulary and imagination!

• Play, play, play! Unstructured play is essential for 3 to 4 year-olds.

Kind Regards, Miss Jadzeah and Miss Sowmya Senior Early Years Educators

Dear Valued Centre Families,

We are thrilled to welcome you and your children back for another exciting term at Kindergarten! This term brings the launch of two enriching programs designed to support your child's development and school readiness: Bush Kindy and the Transition to School TIP Program.

Bush Kindy Begins!

Our Bush Kindy sessions commence this term, offering children a unique opportunity to explore and learn in nature. Through guided outdoor play, children will develop important life skills such as problem solving, resilience and teamwork, all while deepening their connection to the natural environment. These experiences foster creativity, confidence and independence. These are essential foundations for lifelong learning.

Introducing the Transition to School TIP Program

As we look ahead to the exciting step of starting school, our Transition to School TIP (Targeted Intervention Program/Transition Into Prep) is now underway. This program is specially designed for our 4 to 5 year old learners to build the foundational skills they need for a smooth and confident move into the school setting.

The TIP Program focuses on:

• Early literacy and numeracy skills through play based learning

• Social and emotional development, supporting children to navigate friendships, routines and classroom expectations

• Fine motor skills to support handwriting readiness

• Self help and independence to encourage responsibility and confidence

Through targeted small group sessions and whole class activities, we will continue to nurture each child's individual strengths and areas for growth. Educators work closely with families to ensure consistent support between home and Kindergarten, making the transition to school a positive and well supported experience.

We are looking forward to a wonderful term of exploration, growth and discovery.

Kind Regards, Ms Jai-Leen Kindergarten Teacher

Dear Valued Centre Families,

Kidi Kingdom's Before and Afterschool Care recently engaged in a lively and thoughtful group discussion centered around "What We Did on the Weekend with Our Families." The children enthusiastically shared their weekend adventures, from visiting grandparents and baking cookies, to bike rides in the park and movie nights at home. These conversations not only built confidence and communication skills but also fostered deeper connections among peers as they found common interests and experiences.

As part of this activity, educators gently guided the discussion back to our Kidi Kingdom Child Care Rules, helping the children reflect on how positive behaviour at home and in the community aligns with the respectful, responsible and caring environment we maintain here at the centre.

We reminded our Schoolies of some important everyday expectations:

• Respect for ourselves, others, and our environment

• Safe and kind choices at all times

• Listening to educators and peers

• Taking responsibility for our belongings and actions

Through these group chats, we are not only encouraging children to express themselves but also reinforcing the values and social skills that support their growth and development.

We're proud of how our Schoolies demonstrate leadership and kindness in these reflective moments. Thank you to our families for continuing to support these values at home.

Kind Regards, Ms Melanie School Care Educator

Ingredients

• 500g Sebago potatoes, peeled, cut into 2.5cm pieces

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 100g Hungarian salami, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 red capsicums, cut into 2cm pieces

• 3 zucchini, grated

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 1/3 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped

• 2 cups grated tasty cheese

• 1/3 cup grated parmesan

• 1 1/2 cups self-raising flour

• 8 eggs

• 1/2 cup milk

Method

Step 1: Preheat oven to 180 degree C/160 degree C fan-forced. Grease a 5.5cm-deep, 20cm x 26cm (base), 25.5cm x 32cm (top) enamel roasting pan. Line base and sides with baking paper, extending paper 2cm above edges of pan.

Step 2: Place potato in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover. Microwave on HIGH (100%) for 2 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Meanwhile, heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add salami. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until browned. Add garlic. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Place cooled potato and salami in a large bowl. Add capsicum, zucchini, peas, onion, parsley, 11⁄2 cups tasty cheese, parmesan and flour. Mix well to combine.