Orientation

We offer an inclusive orientation program at no cost, to help your child settle into their new environment once your child’s enrolment is confirmed. Orientation supports the development of positive relationships with the educators and familiarises your child with their room and daily routines before they officially start at Fairfield ELC.

We schedule a minimum of two orientation sessions, each approximately two hours long, in the week before your child’s start date. These sessions are scheduled once we receive confirmation that you have completed the online enrolment process following your formal enrolment offer via email.

Starting at a new childcare service can be an exciting time, but it can also feel challenging for both children and parents. How quickly your child settles in can depend on factors such as their age, previous experiences in care, and the interactions they’ve had with other children and adults. While drop-offs can sometimes be emotional, rest assured that patience and consistency help children adjust, leading to a fun and rewarding experience every day.

Here are some tips to make morning drop-offs easier:

• Talk with your child about coming to Fairfield ELC in a positive and excited way.
• Pack familiar items such as a labelled drink bottle, spare clothes, hat, and comforter to help your child feel secure.
• Create a drop-off ritual, like reading one short story together in the room before you leave.
• Communicate with an educator about any specific needs, such as if your child is particularly tired or feeling unsettled.
• Always say goodbye and reassure your child that you will return later.
• Keep departures brief – lingering can make separation harder.
• If your child is struggling to let go, ask an Educator for support. We are here to help your child settle and make goodbyes easier.

For more guidance on preparing your child (and yourself) for the transition to our early childhood education and care environment, please click here.