Family Day Care
Family Day Care is a service provided by Carers in their own home and is governed by a local Co-Ordination Unit or Scheme. The Carer is the sole provider for the children in their care. Carers can take up to five children aged from 6 weeks to 6 years of age and also two school aged children that may require Before & After School Care or Vacation Care.
The Scheme is liscensed by the Department of Community Services under the Children's Services Regulation 2004. Family Day Care is also accredited through the National Childcare Accreditation Council. Carers register with the liscenced scheme and undertake ongoing training and development to keep them updated on procedures, rules and regulations.
Family Day Care can cater for children aged 0 - 12 years. The hours and days are flexible depending on the Carers availability. They can even provide overnight, weekend and evening care. Holiday periods are negotiated with the individual Family Day Carer.
Carers are required to have undergone First Aid Training and certification of this is mandatory. Other formal child care training is always encouraged but not essential. Carers must be able to demonstrate awareness and understanding of children and their families in order to be capable to meet their developmental needs. It is essential that the Co-Ordinator of the Scheme has professional Early Childhood Qualifications.
Child Care Benefit is available to Family Day Care but the eligibility and level depends on the families financial income.
