Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose CRCS?
We understand that choosing the right early learning centre for your child is a big decision. To help, we’ve answered some common questions below. From hours to what to bring, you’ll find the key information you need to feel confident about your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you support children’s safety and wellbeing?
Children’s safety and wellbeing are our highest priority. Our centres follow strong child-safe policies and practices, and our educators create caring environments where children feel safe, respected and supported.
You can learn more about our commitment to safeguarding children in our Child Safe Policy.
What age can my child start early learning?
Our Canberra centres welcome children from 6 weeks to 5 years.
Our Milton centre is for children aged 2 to 5 years.
Are your centres open all year round?
Yes. Our centres are open 51 weeks of the year.
We close on public holidays and for a short break over Christmas and New Year.
Do you accept children with additional needs?
Yes, absolutely.
We’re an inclusive service and support children of all abilities. We’ll take the time to understand your child’s needs and work with you to provide the right support.
If it’s helpful, we can also connect you with our Child and Family Practitioners as part of the CRCS Families team. They can offer free sessions and are experienced in supporting children with autism, ADHD and developmental delays.
As a community service organisation, we believe in supporting the whole family. That means you have access to wraparound support, not just care within the centre.
How do I enrol my child?
Getting started is simple.
You can register through My Family Lounge, our online enrolment system. Once you’ve submitted your details, our team will be in touch to talk through availability and next steps.
You can also find more information about fees and the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) on our Enrolment page.
Can I visit the centre before enrolling?
Yes. We encourage you to visit, meet the educators and see the environment for yourself. It’s the best way to get a feel for the centre and ask any questions.
Visit our Book a Tour page, submit your contact information, and a member of our team will contact you to arrange a date and time for your visit.
Is there a waitlist?
Some centres do have a waitlist, depending on demand and your child’s age group.
We recommend getting in touch early so we can talk through your options.
Do you offer preschool or school readiness programs?
Yes.
Our programs support your child’s learning and development, helping them build confidence, independence and the skills they need for school, at their own pace.
We focus on things like communication, social skills, emotional wellbeing and early learning concepts, all through play-based experiences.
Our educators also support your child to become familiar with routines, transitions and group learning, so they feel comfortable and ready for the move to school.
Do you offer the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
Yes.
If families who are eligible for the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS), it can help reduce your fees.
You can find more information on our Child Care Subsidy page, or we’re happy to talk you through it.
What are the centre opening hours?
Opening hours vary slightly between centres, depending on community needs.
| Bruce Ridge Early Childhood Centre (Bruce, ACT) | 6:30am to 6pm |
| Ginninderra Early Childhood Centre (Belconnen, ACT) | 7:45am to 6pm |
| Budawang Early Learning Centre (Milton, NSW) | 7:30am to 5:30pm |
What should my child bring each day?
We recommend packing:
- A water bottle
- A change of clothes
- Weather-appropriate items (hat, jacket, beanie).
At Budawang Early Learning Centre (Milton, NSW), families also provide lunch and snacks.
Your centre will give you a full checklist before your child starts.
How do you support sun safety?
Sun safety is part of our everyday routine.
We follow recognised guidelines, including applying sunscreen, encouraging children to wear hats, and planning outdoor play outside peak UV times.
We also teach children simple sun-safe habits, like wearing hats, seeking shade and understanding when the sun is strongest.
If your child has sensitivities, you’re welcome to provide your own sunscreen.
Are meals provided?
This depends on the centre.
At our Canberra centres (Bruce Ridge Early Childhood Centre and Ginninderra Early Childhood Centre), meals and snacks are provided for your child each day.
At Budawang Early Learning Centre (Milton, NSW), families provide lunch and snacks.
You can also check your preferred centre’s page for more details about food and meal arrangements.
Are your educators qualified?
Yes.
Our educators are qualified early childhood professionals who genuinely care about children and families.
Our team includes educators with a range of qualifications, from Certificate III through to Diploma and Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.
We’re also proud of the stability of our team. Many of our educators have been with us for a long time (some for over 15 years) which means your child benefits from consistent, familiar relationships.
At Capital Region Community Services, we place a strong focus on ongoing learning and development. Our educators regularly take part in training to stay up to date with best practice, regulations and child-safe standards.