Illustrative activity photograph from the Oak Tree website.
Starting childcare brings a new routine for the whole family. Alongside choosing days and planning the journey, you may be wondering how your child will feel in an unfamiliar place. You do not need to have every answer before you begin.
For Sunnybank Hills families planning ahead, the most useful preparation starts with a conversation. Tell the educators what matters to your child, ask what to expect and agree on the practical next steps together.
Share the small things that matter
You know details about your child that an enrolment form might not capture: the song they enjoy, the words they use when they need help, or the way they like to be comforted. Share these alongside their usual routines and any care requirements.
StartingBlocks, ACECQA’s family resource, encourages families to exchange information, questions and concerns with their service. Ask how you can keep that conversation going after care begins. A quick note about a change at home may be useful, and you should know whom to contact when you need a longer discussion.
Ask about orientation before making plans
Find out what familiarisation opportunities will be available before your child starts. Ask who you will meet, whether your child can spend time in the learning space with you and how the team will help you plan the transition.
ACECQA explains that the time needed for orientation and settling varies between children and families. If work or other commitments limit your flexibility, say so. Discuss what is realistic rather than feeling that you must follow someone else’s schedule. Any shorter first days or visits need to be arranged with the service.
Make the practical details easier
Request the centre’s own packing list before buying anything. Check what is supplied and what needs to come from home, including clothing, personal care items and anything required for meals or rest. Confirm which belongings need labels and whether a familiar comfort item is suitable.
Read the family information carefully and complete the requested enrolment details. Check the agreed start time, collection arrangements and best contact number. Preparing the bag and clothes the night before can leave fewer things to organise in the morning. Raising Children Network also recommends sharing relevant information about your child’s health, wellbeing and preferences before care begins.
Plan a goodbye you can repeat
Talk with educators about a simple goodbye routine that suits your child’s age and communication. It might include putting their bag away, greeting an educator and saying when you will return. Ask how the team would support your child if parting feels difficult, and how you can find out how the day is going.
Keep your explanation simple and truthful. You do not have to promise that every moment will be easy or exciting. The aim is to give your child a clear sense of what happens next.
Keep talking after the first day
At collection, ask a specific question: what interested your child, what felt unfamiliar, or what might help tomorrow? Share anything you noticed at home too. StartingBlocks highlights two-way communication as an important part of the relationship between families and educators.
Planning your start at Sunnybank Hills
Oak Tree Academy Sunnybank Hills is preparing to open in January 2027. Tours are not available yet. Explore the Sunnybank Hills page and register your interest to discuss your child’s needs, preferred start date and the arrangements being prepared. The team can explain the next steps as information becomes available.
Explore Oak Tree Academy Sunnybank Hills