On their first day, children can attend with a parent and spend a short time at Choklits Child Care Centre together, before you can then leave your child for a couple of hours. We judge each situation differently, but if the Choklits Team feel your child needs further orientation they will arrange more time. We use this first visit to begin learning more about your child, to complete any required documentation and discuss all other relevant information including dietary requirements.
Although there are many children who start early, we like all children to be present by 9.30 am, allowing them to enjoy all of the morning’s formal program. A child arriving late when the group is already in session can make settling in harder.
It is also important to try and arrive at the same time each day to pick your child up, as they do get used to a routine – they feel more secure if they know, for example, that Mummy or Daddy comes each day after afternoon tea. You are always welcome to ring Choklits and speak with your room leader at any time during the day to check on your child.
When dropping off children, parents must come into the Centre with their child and sign in using the electronic role located in our foyer. When leaving Choklits you must also sign your child out using the same electronic role as both are government requirements.
We will be there to meet you and your child on your first day and will demonstrate step-by-step how to use the role and iPad along with access to our app so you have transparency on your child’s day and can see their progress.
Some children do get distressed when their parents leave them. This is quite normal behaviour at first, but usually disappears as the child becomes more used to his/her surroundings. Often the tears stop as soon as the parent has left.
When the time comes for separation, it is best not to prolong the goodbyes, but reassure your child that you will return. As your child becomes more secure and safe in the knowledge that you will return, the moment or separation becomes less stressful.
If your child is away on any day, or arriving later than 9:30am, we ask that you please phone us as early as possible so we ensure everyone is accounted and catered for.
It is our policy that no child attending Choklits can be picked up by persons other than those authorised on the enrolment form, unless previous arrangements have been made with us. Please remember to inform us if someone else is picking up your child.
We believe that young children learn through play so their clothes and shoes should be durable to allow for outdoor play and climbing. They will be encouraged to explore a wide range of materials and activities, including some messy ones so please ensure clothing is: – NOT your child’s best clothes – can handle the dirt, and – is clearly labelled
We encourage you to pack your child’s favourite toy or comforter, a drink bottle and change of clothes. At Choklits, we provide each child with their own sun hat (but you can bring your own if you prefer).
What Parents Ask Us Most About Child Care Fees & Enrolment
Everything you need to know about fees and enrolment at Choklits
What is orientation at Choklits?
Orientation is a short visit prior to your first day that helps your child get used to Choklits before full days begin. You and your child can spend time in the room, meet our team, explore the space and share important details with us, such as routines, comfort needs and dietary needs. If your child needs more time to settle, we can arrange extra orientation so they feel safe and ready.
What happens on my child’s first day at Choklits?
On your child’s first day, we help you both settle in gently. Your child can spend a short time at Choklits with you before you leave them with us for a little while. We use this time to get to know your child, talk through their needs and make sure all key details are in place.
Can I stay with my child at the start?
Yes. We know the first day can feel big for children and parents. You can stay with your child for a short time while they begin to explore the room, meet our team and feel more comfortable in their new space.
What if my child needs more time to settle?
Every child settles in their own way. If our team feels your child needs more time, we will talk with you and arrange extra orientation. We want your child to feel safe, known and ready for care at their own pace.
What time should we arrive in the morning?
We ask families to arrive by 9.30 am where possible. This helps your child join the morning program from the start. A calm, steady arrival time also helps children feel more secure in their daily routine.
What should I bring on the first day?
Please pack a comfort toy or comforter if your child has one, a drink bottle and spare clothes. We provide each child with a Choklits sun hat, but you are welcome to bring your own hat if you prefer.
What should my child wear to Choklits?
Please dress your child in clothes and shoes that are safe, comfy and ready for play. Children climb, explore, paint, dig and enjoy messy learning, so clothes should be durable, clearly labelled and able to handle dirt.
How do I sign my child in and out?
When you arrive, please come into the centre with your child and sign in using the electronic roll in our foyer. You will also sign your child out when you leave. We will show you how to use the iPad and app step by step on your first day.
What should I do when it is time to say goodbye?
A short, calm goodbye is best. Give your child a cuddle, let them know you will come back, then say goodbye with confidence. Some children can seem upset at first, and that is very normal. Our team will comfort your child and help them join the day.
Can I call during the day to check on my child?
Yes. You are always welcome to call us during the day and speak with your child’s room leader. We also use our app to help you see updates from your child’s day and feel connected while they are with us.
Who can collect my child from Choklits?
For your child’s safety, only people listed as authorised contacts on your enrolment form can collect your child. If someone else needs to collect your child, please speak with us first so we can make the right arrangements.
What should I do if my child is away or running late?
If your child is away or will arrive after 9.30 am, please call us as early as you can. This helps us plan the day, support the room routine and make sure every child is accounted for.
