What is the Best Age to Start Childcare?

What is the right age to start childcare, and what are the signs that you should be looking for when making that decision?

For parents, these are two of the commonly asked questions. And, in almost all cases, it’s a less than definitive answer with some experts suggesting that kids can start childcare as early as 6 weeks old, while others recommend waiting until they’re primary school age as each child’s developmental and family needs are unique.

Discover key signs to look for and the different stages in childcare below to help you decide when your child is at the best age to start childcare.

Factors to consider when deciding the right age

As you navigate your childcare options, consider these essential factors to find the best fit for your family and child.

Your child’s developmental stage

You know your child better than anyone, so you’re able to consider their physical, emotional, and social readiness completely. Children who are more adaptive, active and socially curious may thrive in childcare at an earlier age than those who are more easily overwhelmed in social settings. 

It’s common for children to find it difficult to be separated from their parents or caregivers at first, however, Child Australia report that improvements can be seen in just a few weeks in childcare attitude and behaviour, especially if the child and Educator form a relationship. 

Family needs and professional circumstances

The decision to start childcare can also impact your lives as parents or caregivers and depends on factors like work commitments, and external support. Childcare will assure children are in a safe environment, providing a dual-working family the time and consistency to balance work and parenting. However, it really is different from family to family - assess your personal circumstances to weigh up the childcare costs compared to income from the job. 

Access to quality childcare options

Another factor to consider is your location and access to quality childcare centres. The transition into childcare can be made easier at any age if you have access to a reputable childcare centre who offer a stimulating, safe, and nurturing environment for your little one.

Look for a childcare centre that focuses on encouraging children to build a strong sense of identity and wellbeing, connect with the outside world, and encourage confidence, involvement and communication. That way, you can ensure your child is going to gain the most out of the childcare centre and their learning approach. 

Once you find the right childcare centre, secure your spot as early as possible! Early childhood learning facilities can get booked up ahead of time.

Age Based Breakdown for Starting Childcare

There is no minimum age a child can start childcare in Australia - however, combined with the key factors above, the below age brackets will outline the different learning requirements for each specific age. 

Infant (0 to 18 months)

A child’s dependency is highest from birth to 1 year old, necessitating one-on-one care and attention. At this time, children are developing strong bonds and trust with their carers, resulting in the need for continuous care to build that trust and attachment.

Whilst this may be a difficult time to transition into childcare, it’s not uncommon for babies to take well to the environment - the right childcare centre will have a good Educator to baby ratio, offer a clean and safe environment, and the children are being consistently engaged with. High-quality childcare centres will offer activities like singing, talking, reading, playing, and physical contact to promote bonding and development with infants and babies.

Toddler (1-3 years old)

Children between 1 to 3 years old are rapidly developing their motor skills, socialising more, and beginning to explore the world around them. Due to the excitement and the eagerness to test their limits, children require a parent or carer with enough patience and energy to provide constant supervision. Educators can support these developments with daily activities such as ball skills, running and jumping, playing in the sandpit, dancing and music games, and collaborative play.

Although this can be a tricky age to transition into childcare fraught with separation anxiety, there are plenty of benefits to look forward to. Childcare for toddlers can increase interest in engaging with other children, can strengthen the immune system, and help grow communication skills.

From 1 to 3 years old is a significant stage where, through play-based learning, a child can develop independence and build confidence as they grow at a childcare centre. 

Preschool Age (3-6 years old)

Beginning childcare between the ages of 3 to 6 is common, as most childcare centres offer Approved Kindergarten programs designed to assist children for the social and academic demands of school. Not only do children begin to focus on pre-literacy and numeracy skills, and group activities, they also start to refine their social, emotional, and cognitive skills. 

Childcare offers a fantastic opportunities to engage in activities and socialisation that can be difficult to match from home!