At Starfish Early Learning Centre (Starfish ELC), we don’t merely provide childcare; we offer an enriching experience designed to support the holistic development of every young mind in our care. Today we’ll take you through a typical day at our centre, where every moment is a step towards a brighter, more confident future.
Morning Arrival: A Warm and Welcoming Start to the Day
Upon arriving at Starfish ELC, each child and family is greeted with a warm smile and a friendly “Hello!” This sets the tone for a positive day ahead. Our dedicated educators take the time to engage with each child, ensuring they feel secure and welcomed as they transition from home to our stimulating environment.
We understand that this change can be difficult, especially for younger children who have not yet adapted, and we strive to make it as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Through ongoing communication with families and our ever-strengthening relationship with the children, our highly trained educators will work in collaboration with families to provide a comforting and nurturing environment to transition to.
Learning Through Play: A Fun and Engaging Way to Learn and Grow
At Starfish ELC, we embrace the power of play-based learning. Children learn best when they’re engaged and having fun, which is why our curriculum features activities experiences that are educational, entertaining and inspiring. Our architecturally-designed centres feature indoor and outdoor spaces specifically designed to be safe, and engaging, and provide a range of stimuli for your child.
Through creative play, storytelling, and interactive games, children develop a myriad of skills—from motor coordination to cognitive problem-solving. Not to mention, play-based experiences are also crucial for fostering social skills like teamwork, sharing, and empathy.
A Nutritious and Delicious Lunch: Fuelling Children for a Fun and Productive Afternoon
Lunchtime at Starfish ELC is more than just a meal break. It’s an integral part of our daily schedule, planned carefully to meet the nutritional needs of growing bodies and minds. Our chef-prepared meals are not only delicious but also wholesome, ensuring that your child is adequately fuelled for the day.
Mealtimes also serve as a unique learning experience. Educators utilise this period to instil table manners, encourage mindful eating, and facilitate social interactions. Through guided conversations and communal activities, your child will make new friends and learn the significance of community, sharing, and gratitude.
Afternoon Experiences: A Mix of Rest, Fun, and Learning
After a nourishing lunch, our children are ready for sleep/rest time. Our sleep/rest time routines are flexible to take into account the needs and home routines of the individual children and their families. Towards the end of the year, children in the 4-year-old kindergarten room will move to doing quiet experiences rather than resting, to assist with their upcoming transition to school.
After sleep/rest time, it’s back into learning and activities. Whether it’s an art project, a nature walk, or a session of musical exploration, every context for learning is meticulously designed to stimulate creativity and imagination. Our educators are adept at tailoring learning experiences to suit the diverse interests and developmental needs of each child, ensuring that everyone has a meaningful and individualised educational experience.
Transitioning Home: A Smooth and Stress-Free End to the Day
As the day draws to a close, we begin the process of transitioning children back to their home environment. This is accomplished through a series of calming experiences like story time, drawing and quiet construction. These experiences serve as a cue for the children, helping them understand that the day is winding down. Educators also take the time to speak with each child about their day, reinforcing the day’s learning and paving the way for a smooth handover to parents.
When families arrive, they are greeted personally by our Educators who then inform them about their child’s day and pass on any messages.
Starting Your Starfish Journey
At Starfish ELC, each day is a new adventure, meticulously planned to ensure your child’s comprehensive development. Our expert team of Educators and well-rounded curriculum creates enriching experience, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning and achievement.
To learn more about what your child’s experience at Starfish will be like, please read our Centre Philosophy or contact us to book a tour and see for yourself how Starfish ELC is a place where children don’t just grow; they flourish.
- Each classroom at a Starfish ELC has a Daily Learning Journal, which tracks what children have done and learned that day.
- At the end of each week, the Centre Director emails a weekly snapshot to each parent charting their child’s activities.
- Each classroom also has an information board which documents the child’s day; meals, bottles, sleeps etc.
- Parents are also welcome to call or email throughout the day.