– What are the differences between sessional and long day care kindergarten?
– What is the better choice for my child: sessional kindergarten or long day care kindergarten?
These are the most common questions we receive from parents at our YMCA Early Learning Centres, in these lines we hope to provide answers and offer clarity to help you make this important decision for your family.
It’s essential to note that both options have their merits, but certain factors should guide your choice:
– How many hours of care does your child require?
– Do you have a budget in mind?
Differences between sessional and long day care kindergarten
Below, we outline the five main differences between Sessional and Long day care Kindergarten that will assist your decision-making process:
| Sessional Kindergarten | Long day care Kindergarten |
| Operates during specific times, typically 15 hours a week. However, for three-year-old Kinder, it might be fewer hours (please check with the centre). | Usually opens from around 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, with variations in each centre. |
| Closed during school holidays. | Open year-round, except for public holidays. |
| In 2024, Sessional Kindergarten is free in Victoria. | Incurs daily childcare fees, but you receive government rebates. |
| Children need to bring their lunchbox. | Meals are included. |
| Typically follows a structured routine. | Offers a slightly more flexible routine due to longer operating hours. |
It is important to mention the similarities between both modalities as well:
– Both are staffed by one fully qualified Kindergarten Teacher with a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) and assistants qualified with Certificate III or a Diploma in Early Childhood Education.
– Both focus on fostering independence and resilience, key components of school readiness.
– A priority in both settings is for children to be able to recognise their names before starting school.
– In Sessional and Long day care kindergarten, we introduced literacy and numeracy concepts that are age appropriate for the children, in a fun and engaging way.
– Both emphasise “Learning through play”, aligning with the pedagogical practices outlined in The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia.
– In sessional and long day care kindergarten, the educator-to-child ratio is typically one educator per 11 children.
– Both settings utilise indoor and outdoor environments to support all aspects of children’s learning.
We hope that these differences and similarities assist you in making an informed decision regarding your child’s educational journey.
Related links:
https://childrensprograms.whittlesea.ymca.org.au/benefits-of-three-year-old-kinder/