What Is the Best Age to Start Childcare?

Having your first child can be an exciting time. From the moment your little person enters this world, you are tasked with making many decisions. When to place your little one in childcare is one of the most important choices you will make as a parent.
Since Australia offers paid parental leave for up to 4.5 months, many mums and dads are not in a hurry to return to work. Some wait until six months before parting with their babes to head back to the workforce whilst others may go even longer. The best age to start childcare is a very personal decision. Some parents may need to place their child into care due to financial or work commitments. Others may choose to wait until their child is of preschool age before starting. There is no right or wrong time to start childcare. Here are some considerations to help you decide.
Starting childcare early The benefits of attending childcare at any age are well-documented. The Australian Institute of Family estimates that 35 per cent of children aged up to 1 year were cared for in a formal early childhood education centre. Babies require sensory stimulation to develop physically and emotionally. Our music, art, and physical movement activities help babies learn and grow. Another consideration for starting early is the benefit to your child’s immune system. Research supports the notion that children who attend childcare early in life are less likely to become sick during their later school years. Babies require a lot of one-on-one time. If you choose to start childcare between birth and through age 1, choose a centre like ours with a low child-to-carer ratio to ensure your child receives individualised attention. Our infant childcare room stresses routine for meals, nap time, and play, helping your child to grow and learn.
Starting at an older age There are some differences if you opt to wait to enter childcare until your child is 2 or older. One of the most important factors is your child’s anxiety level. Most children are past the separation anxiety phase by age 1 but can have anxiety about being in an unfamiliar place with new people. Choosing a daycare with ample educators is ideal. Toddlers still require a watchful eye whilst they are exposed to social interactions with their peers and cooperative play experiences. Our educators will model appropriate behavior whilst encouraging toddlers to explore their independence. We engage children in several stimulating activities centered around music, art, dance, and nutrition.
Making the right choice Parents who are struggling with deciding when the best age to start childcare is can reach out to the childcare experts at Creative Childcare. We are one of the leading childcare centres in Newcastle Australia, providing safe spaces for children of any age to develop and grow. Our staff can assist parents as they make one of the most important decisions of their child’s future. Schedule a tour of our facility or a consult to discuss options.