Reasons to Enrol Mid-year
Although lots of families begin childcare at the start of the calendar year, there’s much to be said for mid-year enrolment.
BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE
The tail end of the year is a super busy time for childcare searches, centre tours and orientation days, with lots of families getting their ducks in a line for a January or February start date.
However, if you have flexibility, then looking for childcare in the middle of the year can reap rewards.
Here are four reasons to search for childcare now, and secure a place after (or before) everyone else!
1. You can take advantage of special deals being offered at the moment.
Some childcare centres have generous introductory offers on the table; and although a great deal isn’t the only reason to choose an early learning service, it can make a favourite centre (or childcare brand) even more attractive.
2. You might find yourself with more childcare choice.
By this time of the year, the mad rush for places has dissipated, and some families have changed their original childcare plans, leaving openings for others.
You might also find that those forward-thinking parents who put their child's name on several waiting lists early on have now found a spot, making some waiting lists a little shorter.
And because new centres can open at any time of the year, it’s possible that you’ll find an amazing childcare option in your area that didn’t exist a couple of months ago.
3. Your child can transition to early learning at a quieter time of the year.
Early childhood professionals take time and care to ensure that every child is supported when they start in the early learning environment.
However, there’s no doubt that childcare centres can be a bit hectic at the start of the year, with a big influx of new people – and emotions!
It doesn’t take long for everyone to get into a nice rhythm, but if your child starts mid-year, it’s much more likely that the other children are settled and routines well-established, which is great for your under-five to soak up as soon as they start.
4. Mid-year enrolment may suit your circumstances.
Parents often return to work at the start of the calendar year.
However, every job is different, and if you’re finishing mat leave soon, easing back into your small business, starting a new contract, or planning part-time work now and full-time next year, then it may make sense to enrol your child in care sooner rather than later.
Mid-year enrolment might also work if you’ll be studying in Semester Two, or have some big things planned for the second half of the year, like the arrival of twins!
Every family is different, but if you do need childcare in the coming months, there are lots of amazing centres with welcoming staff and vacancies of different kinds.
KindiCare makes it simple to search for childcare options in your location of choice, then enquire with your favourites, arrange tours, and apply for a place.
The Childcare Match feature in the KindiCare App then simplifies things even further, so make sure you fill in your childcare preferences (including your preferred start date), and we’ll quickly suggest centres that match your needs now, or going forward.
