Options for early education and care
There's a wide range of early childhood education and care (ECEC) and outside school hours care options available to suit family needs.
Learn about the types of ECEC services
Find out about the different types of ECEC services and which one/s would be suitable for your family.
Preschool
Preschools are usually for children aged 3 to 5 years old, or the 2 years before they start school, and generally operate from 9 am to 3.30 pm during NSW school terms.
Preschools provide a program that supports early learning and transition to school. Most are community based, not-for-profit services however some are public preschools run by the department on school sites. Other service types, like long day cares, may also offer preschool programs
The NSW Government has committed to building 100 new public preschools by 2027. Visit 100 new preschools to find out more.
Long day care
Long day care services are available for children from birth to school age and generally run from 7-8 am to 6 pm to suit working families. Children can attend all or part of the day. Many long day care services offer preschool programs.
Family day care
Registered educators provide education and care for children from birth to age 12 in homes or approved venues.
These services cater for small groups of up to 7 children, with a maximum of 4 under preschool age.
Outside school hours care (OSHC) also known as Out of School Hours (OOSH)
These services operate before and after school for school aged children.
Some services also provide education and care during school holidays and pupil-free days, sometimes known as vacation care. Find out more about Outside School Hours Care.
Occasional care
Casual care services offer short-term care for children from birth to school age for short periods of time.
These types of services are suitable for families with temporary or last-minute needs.
Mobile services
Mobile services are designed to travel to areas where centre based services are not readily available.
The In Home Care Program provides access to Government subsidised child care in the family home and is not regulated under the National Quality Framework.
The program is targeted to assist parents or carers who are unable to access other mainstream child care options such as those who work non-standard hours, are geographically isolated or have families with challenging and complex needs.
Enrol early
With a high demand for ECEC services, it is important to enrol your child as soon as possible. Consider doing this if your child needs to start by a particular age or time.
Many services will have a wait list if there are no spots available. You can put your child on the wait list for more than one service.
Choosing a quality service
To find a service in your area and get tips on choosing one, visit Choosing a quality service.
Inclusive learning in ECEC
Find out how your child with disability or additional learning and support needs can be supported in early childhood education. .