Early childhood education supports young children’s learning and development before school. Families can access childcare, preschool and early learning services to prepare children for formal education.
Understanding childcare and preschool
Learn how early childhood education works in NSW, what preschool and childcare programs are available, and how they support children’s learning and development.
Early childhood education information
Read information about early childhood education in NSW to help you with understanding how to support your child, who provides the services and their responsibilities to the child and their parents and carers.
Early childhood education information for parents and carers
Read information about the benefits of early childhood education, the development of children, choices for care and fees and financial help you can get when using care.
Welcome to preschool guide
Read information about getting a child ready to go to preschool for parents and carers of the child.
Early childhood education and care translated resources
Read information about preparing for early childhood education and care in different languages.
Starting preschool social stories
Read and watch stories to help your child get oriented to starting preschool and different social situations.
Childcare in Australia explained (SBS)
Listen to information about the different childcare options available, and how your income level will set the level of government subsidy you will receive, for parents and carers.
Finding and paying for childcare
Find childcare services near you, learn how to enrol, and understand financial support available to help pay for childcare and preschool programs.
Early childhood education and care contacts
Read information about contacting the Early Childcare Education Department of the NSW Department of Education.
Find childcare tool
Search for child care centres in your area.
Start Strong for Community Preschools program
Read information about the Start Strong for Community Preschools program, which provides funding to deliver affordable, quality preschool education to children aged 3 and above.
Subsidised childcare in Australia (SBS)
Listen to information for parents and carers about the requirements for and level of government support available for child care based on your income and activity level.
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