Sending your Hydro Warrior to Daycare

By hydro-mum, Kerryn Csik. Published October 15, 2024

Starting daycare can feel overwhelming, especially when your child has unique needs. But Australia has a wealth of options designed to welcome and support children with all kinds of needs in a safe, caring, and inclusive environment. Here’s a handy checklist to help you choose a daycare where your child can feel happy and thrive.

1. Look for an Approved Early Learning Centre

When searching for daycare, seek out Approved Early Learning Centres that meet the standards of the National Quality Framework (NQF). These centres follow the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), meaning they’re not only safe but also nurturing environments that support every child’s growth and development. Checking their NQF rating can give you confidence in their quality of care.

2. Open, Friendly Communication

One of the most reassuring parts of choosing daycare is finding a place where the staff are open to really getting to know you and your child. Look for a centre where you feel comfortable speaking openly with the director and staff about what makes your child unique. It’s okay to ask questions—whether about specific care needs or simply to get a feel for how the centre supports children’s individual personalities and preferences.

3. Ask About Experience with Diverse Needs

You’re not alone in needing a little extra support. Many centres have experience working with children that have diverse or additional needs, and they’re often happy to share how they’ve helped other families before. Knowing the centre has previously cared for children that require some additional care can be a huge comfort. Most centres will request an Emergency Action Plan from your neurosurgeon. The EAP advises your child’s educators of the symptoms to watch for and what to do in case of emergency.

4. Look for Flexible Setups

You want your child to feel as safe and comfortable as possible, so it’s worth asking about how the centre might adjust their environment to suit specific needs. For example:

• Magnetic Toys: If your child has a programmable shunt, you’ll want to check with your child’s neurosurgeon about magnetic play and if it should be avoided. Make sure the centre is aware that magnetic toys may interfere with a programmable shunt.

• Mobility and Space: If your child uses a walker or needs extra space, ask about the classroom setup and how they ensure clear paths for movement.

These kinds of questions can help make sure the environment will support your child in every way possible.

5. Emergency and Individual Needs Training

It’s completely natural to worry about “what if” situations. Most daycare staff are trained in first aid, but for some children, you might want to ask if they’ve had extra training or experience managing specific medical situations, like how to respond to a seizure or handle medical equipment. Knowing that the staff are prepared can help give you peace of mind.

6. Willingness to Partner with Your Child’s Health Team

If your child’s doctors or therapists have given you advice or recommendations for daycare, see if the staff are open to working with them to make things even smoother for your child. Daycare centres can often adapt their routines, games, or learning activities to align with what works best for each child. Working together can really help create a seamless experience!

Additional Resources for Australian Parents

Supportive Networks and Inclusion Services: Many daycares in Australia work with inclusion support agencies to better serve children with unique needs. These partnerships can provide centres with specialized resources and training, giving your child even more support. You can access more information at https://www.education.gov.au/early-childhood/inclusion-support-program.

Choosing a daycare that understands your child’s needs can make the transition so much smoother for both of you. You’re giving your child the chance to learn, play, and make new friends in a setting tailored just for them. And by asking these questions, you’re making sure their daycare experience is one they’ll enjoy every day!

About the Author

Kerryn Csik is a dedicated mother to her little Hydro Warrior, Henry, who currently attends daycare. Through her personal journey, Kerryn has gained valuable insights and experiences that inspire her to share guidance and support for other parents navigating similar paths. She is passionate about helping families find inclusive environments where their children can thrive and feel loved.