Children's centres for early childhood development and parenting, and children and family centres (children’s centres) bring together education and care, health, community development activities and family services for young children and their families.

Each centre offers a different range of integrated services responsive to children, family and community needs. These services and programs are offered with a strong focus on partnerships with the local community and other agencies.

To find out which services are offered in your area, check with your local children’s centre.

Early childhood education and care services

• Preschool is offered for children who will be starting school within the next year. Some 3 year olds are also eligible to attend. Find more information on other options for attending preschool.
• A range of services support preschool children according to specific needs and eligibility criteria.
• The Learning Together Communities programs helps families to engage in their children’s learning with a focus on early literacy for children up to 4 years of age.
• Long day care provides full or part-time care for babies, toddlers and children under the age of 6.
• Occasional care provides sessional care for for babies, toddlers and children under school age.
• Playgroups promote young children's development through play experiences and provide an opportunity for parents to build supportive networks, make friends and share experiences with other parents.
• Crèche services may be available for parents participating in centre programs.

Community development services

Community development coordinators are based in children’s centres as a key partner  to support the strengthening of child-adult relationships, children’s overall safety, learning, health, active participation and wellbeing.

Health services

• Health promotion materials and activities on dental health, healthy eating,  physical activity, child development and parenting information is available.
• Child and Family Health Service (CaFHS) provide child and family health services and advice and child health checks.
• Antenatal services are available at some children’s centres.
• Children’s centres occupational therapists and speech pathologists provide a range of group and individual services for children, families and colleagues. These services promote children’s healthy development and support responsive interactions.

Family services

Families can access a diverse range of parenting programs at children’s centres. Programs focus on parenting skills and child development including literacy, behaviour guidance, food, nutrition, exercise, and caring for children’s development, learning and health needs.

Collaborative partnership approach for the best start in life

All centres focus on children’s learning and development within the context of their family and community. Children and family centres also focus on supporting Aboriginal families with young children.

Through a collaborative partnership approach, centres help strengthen families and the community to provide their children the best possible start in life.