Here in Tasmania we have pre-kindy 2 days a week and there’s also early learning institutes. Our little one starts pre kindy next term at the school he will attend kindly at. It’s to prepare him for next year so he will be familiar with the school, teachers and other kids in his class

I agree with some of the comments below; means different things in some States and Territories. A good facility can be terrific for educational needs.

I think they’re both incredibly valuable. It’s a bit hard to answer precisely because those terms mean different things in each state and territory.

Where I am Kindy is 2 days one week and three the next and in our case it’s at the same school our daughter will start preprimary in next year. I love the fact that she can get to know some friends and the school itself part time before having to attend full time next year.

It gets confusing too when we all call them different things. Here in NSW Kindergarten is the first year of infants/primary/big school. I think most child minding centres follow basic guidelines will offer similar experiences with some a more focused program. You’ll have to look into each one and their programs but they will learn so much just with social interactions.

High quality early childhood education and care gives children the best start in life. It provides important opportunities to learn and develop. Early childhood education and care can help your child make friends, develop independence and learn new routines. It also supports their transition to school.
It can be offered in kindergarten services. Long day care centres may also offer approved kindergarten programs delivered by a qualified Early Childhood Teacher. In New South Wales, kindergarten refers to the first year of primary school and preschool refers to the year before they start school.

Kindy was the best decision i ever made for my daughter, it really helped her grow and learn so much ready for school this year. I highly recommend picking something that has a good educational program as well as fun as it really helps them settle into school better.

Both ELC (Early Learning Centre) and kindy prepare children for school, but ELCs generally cater to younger ages (from birth/toddlers) with a broader focus on play-based learning and social development, while kindergarten (often for 4-5 year olds) has a more structured curriculum introducing basic academics like letters and numbers.