Canberra Childcare - Top Banner

Canberra Family Day Care

Canberra Family Day Care – What Canberra Parents Need to Know

Canberra Family Day Care providers offer a warm, home-based environment where small groups of children learn and play together under the guidance of a registered educator. In Canberra, this option appeals to families seeking flexible hours, strong personal relationships, and continuity of care.

Each educator operates from their own home, usually caring for up to four preschool-aged children at a time. The small group size allows educators to tailor learning experiences to individual interests and developmental stages, all while following the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and National Quality Standard (NQS). Children participate in play-based learning — gardening, reading, creative arts, and outdoor discovery — that builds confidence and social skills in a safe, nurturing setting.

Canberra Family Day Care schemes are coordinated by approved providers who ensure each educator meets qualification, safety, and training requirements. Families appreciate the sense of belonging that develops as their child grows within a consistent, family-like environment.

This type of care is particularly helpful for parents who work irregular hours or prefer smaller groups rather than the structure of large centres. Many educators offer flexible arrangements, including part-time or weekend care, depending on family needs. Canberra Childcare helps parents locate approved Family Day Care educators across the ACT and understand how these programs can complement their child’s early learning journey.

Canberra Family Day Care - Engaging in-home care.
Canberra Family Day Care – Engaging in-home care.

Canberra Family Day Care FAQs for Canberra Parents

Q: What is family day care?
A: Family day care is a home-based early learning service where a registered educator cares for a small group of children, usually up to four preschool-aged children at a time.

Q: How is family day care different from centre-based care?
A: Family day care offers smaller group sizes and a more flexible, personal environment. It suits families seeking a home-like setting with strong relationships between educators and children.

Q: Are Canberra family day care educators qualified?
A: Yes. All educators must hold or be working toward a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and are monitored by a coordinating scheme to meet National Quality Framework requirements.

Q: Can I claim the Child Care Subsidy for family day care?
A: Yes. Family day care is an approved form of care under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), meaning eligible Canberra families can receive financial support based on income and activity level.

Useful Childcare Links

Back to top