FOR PARENTS
Everything you need to feel prepared.
Starting childcare brings plenty of questions. Here you’ll find simple information about settling in, everyday life at Royal Oak Childcare and Learning Centre and what to expect along the way.
SETTLING IN
A gentle start, shaped around your child.
Every child settles differently. Across a transition period of around two weeks, we take time to understand what helps your child feel safe, comfortable and ready to join in.
Before the first day
Visit together, meet the teachers and share your child’s routines, interests and familiar comforts.
During the first days
We keep communication open and respond calmly to your child’s cues while they build trust with familiar teachers.
Finding their rhythm
As your child becomes more comfortable, we continue checking in and adjusting our support with you.
DAILY LIFE
Care, connection, play and discovery.
Each day offers indoor and outdoor play, creative experiences, stories, music, movement, rest and meaningful conversations. Familiar routines help children feel secure, while flexible moments allow us to respond to what they need each day.
Play that follows children’s interests
Space for independence, confidence and belonging
Meals, refreshments, and seasonal fruit provided
Staying connected through Storypark
MOVING ROOMS
Growing into each new space.
From 6 months through to 6 years, children’s learning journey is made up of many meaningful steps: beginning in the Baby Room, moving into the Toddler Room, continuing into our Learning Centre and preparing for primary school. Each transition is planned around the individual child, never age alone.
Before each move, children make gradual visits, get to know their new primary caregiver and become familiar with the next room’s routines. We celebrate every transition with a small graduation moment for children, teachers and whānau — recognising how far each child has come and looking forward to what is next.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Quick answers for families.
Still wondering about something? You are always welcome to call, email or ask us during a visit.
What are your teacher-to-child ratios?+
The Ministry of Education’s minimum ratio is 1:5 for under 2s. For children aged two and over, minimum staffing requirements vary by group size and can be as high as 1:10.
We usually operate at around 1:4 for under 2s, and 1:7 in our Toddler and Preschool groups. This gives our team more time to notice, respond to and support each child throughout the day.
Ratios can vary slightly depending on attendance, children’s needs and staffing on the day.
How long is the settling-in period?+
We recommend allowing around two weeks for transition visits before your child’s official start date. Visits begin with a parent or caregiver staying with the child, then gradually build towards longer sessions as they become comfortable.
What session options are available?+
Families can choose a half day of 5 hours, a short day of up to 6.5 hours, or a long day of up to 10 hours. Talk with us about the option that best suits your family.
What food is provided?+
Meals are provided for children in our Childcare Centre.
At the Learning Centre, families provide morning tea and lunch. We provide refreshments and seasonal fruit, where baking and food preparation are regular shared experiences.
Bringing familiar food from home also helps children practise the everyday lunchbox routines they will meet at school. Please let us know about any allergies, dietary requirements, cultural preferences or food sensitivities.
What are your opening hours?+
Both centres are open Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 5.30pm.
What should my child bring?+
Please bring a named bag with spare clothes suitable for the season, along with any personal comfort items your child may need. For younger children, please also provide formula or breast milk if required.
What if my child is unwell?+
For the wellbeing of all children and teachers, children who are unwell should remain at home. If your child becomes unwell during the day, we will contact you promptly and ask that they are collected.
COME AND SEE
Questions are always welcome.
Bring your child, meet the teachers and take your time looking around.