More than care, it’s a community 

Starting school is a big step for children and families. OSHC is often seen as a practical solution for before and after school care, but it is so much more than that. It is a community. A place where children develop independence, social skills and resilience. Where they learn to navigate friendships, take on small responsibilities and feel part of a community.  

A bridge between home and school 

For many Prep and Kindy children, OSHC is the gentle bridge into school life. As our WA Regional Manager, Jaihon Sedgley, explained “attending the January holiday program lets children explore their school environment, meet educators and try routines before term begins. This early connection reduces anxiety and builds excitement for the first day.”  

Services also offer play dates and orientation visits, so families can meet the team and see the space together. When children see a familiar educator greet them in week one, the transition feels calmer and more predictable. 

“Supporting Preps means meeting them where they are, emotionally, socially, and developmentally. We want to build an OSHC environment that feels like a second home.” 

Designated educators and buddies 

Across our services, we use a key educator approach for preps. Each child has a designated educator who learns their routines, interests and needs. This consistent relationship helps children feel seen and supported from day one.  

We also pair Prep and Kindy children with older buddies who already know the space and routines. These natural mentoring moments give younger children someone to sit with, play alongside, or turn to when they need reassurance. This gentle support helps build confidence and a strong sense of belonging. 

A day in the life of OSHC: Rise and Shine and Stay and Play 

The first weeks of school often bring big emotions. Educators plan calm starts and predictable routines that help children feel safe and settled. Play is central to this support. As Robyn from Play Australia explained during our webinar, unstructured play helps children regulate emotions and feel ready to learn. At OSHC, children can unwind after class, connect with friends and enjoy time outdoors in a supervised, relaxed setting. 

Our daily rhythm gives young learners a sense of security and plenty of freedom to choose how they participate. 

Morning routines: Rise and Shine 

• Families are welcomed from early morning 

• Breakfast is offered, with options shaped by children’s preferences such as fruit, yoghurt, porridge or pancakes 

• Quiet and active choices are available, from reading corners to simple construction and games 

• Educators walk Prep and Kindy children to their classrooms, help with bags and provide a brief handover to teachers 

Afternoon routines: Stay and Play 

• Educators collect Prep and Kindy children from classrooms, help with bags and vests, then walk together to the OSHC space 

• A short group check in covers the roll, what is for afternoon tea, planned experiences, and safety boundaries 

• Children move between activity stations indoors and outdoors, including crafts, STEM, sports, obstacle courses, construction and calm spaces 

• At pick up, a quick handover lets families know how the afternoon went 

This routine helps new starters settle at their own pace. The structure is clear, yet there is freedom for children to choose how they participate. 

Child voice and welcoming spaces 

Children also help shape what happens each day. Educators use their interests to plan activities, gather feedback on menus, and adapt the environment to feel familiar and home like. Our spaces are designed to feel welcoming and predictable, helping children settle quickly and feel at home. When spaces feel safe and warm, children explore more and grow in confidence. 

What families can expect from us 

• Prep and Kindy children are collected from their classrooms each afternoon 

• There are always at least two educators on site 

• Ratios meet or better state requirements 

• Medical action plans are followed, families supply medication, and services carry spare EpiPens for emergencies 

• Communication is open, with brief updates at pick up and ongoing conversations about routines and needs 

Getting started 

• Try a visit! Join a play date or orientation to meet educators and see the space together 

• Enrol early. Set up your Kidsoft parent portal, complete enrolment, and choose recurring or casual bookings to suit your routine 

Ready to help your child feel confident and connected? Explore our programs and prep enrolment offers here.