Could we have found the most unique and caring Childcare Centre in Ferny Grove? We sent our Listings Editor, Regina Gleeson, to find out why Habitat Early Learning in Ferny Grove was a ‘cut above’. Read her review:
A Very Special Childcare Centre in Ferny Grove
Having worked in the child care industry for over 10 years and being a mum to two gorgeous girls who have both attended child care, I know this industry from the front and the back! Everyone has their own agenda when making the decision of where to send their child. A lot of general information you can get from a website – fees, opening hours, age group covered etc. I think it is so important to also go and visit a centre. That is the only way to really get a ‘feel’ for the place to work out if it is for your family. I went to visit Habitat Early Learning Ferny Grove to see what they have to offer to local Brisbane Families.
A Welcoming Environment
The centre has a large carpark and an easy to find entrance. The reception area is very well presented and has a welcoming feeling. The first thing I noticed was the most incredible smell of food (I later discovered it was Moroccan Mince for lunch – YUM!). The comforting smell of lunch instantly makes the centre feel homely. I noticed the use of natural materials and light throughout the centre which can be quite calming as opposed to bright colours. The materials and furniture are modern, clean and well looked after.
A Childcare Centre that puts children first
Habitiat’s philosophy is:
“Built on the central tenet of providing quality care and education in a supportive environment that ensures the rights of every child are upheld, Habitat’s philosophy underpins all aspects of pedagogic practice.”
Their curriculum incorporates emergent, individualised and play based approaches all of which centre on active inquiry. They are interested in each child as an individual and build their program around them.
How is Habitat Early Learning Childcare Centre Organised?
Habitat welcomes children from 6 weeks through to 6 years. They are open 6.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday. They deliver Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Programs for children aged 4years old by July 31 in the year of participation. They also offer Montessori Programs in a separate area of the Centre. They provide food for the children with a heavy emaphasis on presenting ‘a colourful, nutritious and delicious menu’. They also provide nappies for the younger children.
Each room opens out onto a lovely outdoor play area which overlooks a natural bush setting beyond the fence. They even have a little ‘café’ where parents can help themselves to tea and coffee when they need some time out!
What else does Habitat Early Learning offer?
Habitat offers some extras that you won’t find in many other centres. They offer a Performing Arts Program, a Perceptual Motor Program and a Mandarin Program. All of these programs are inclusive of the fee structure. Habitat also has 10 Early Childhood Teachers on staff – that’s impressive!
I was extremely impressed with this centre. The staff were very welcoming and looked happy and engaged with the children. The children were busy and I loved seeing them involved in making their own morning tea. The tables were set for morning tea when I was there and they looked so lovely, I wanted to sit and join them! The whole place had a calm and happy feel about it that just made me want to be there.
To find out more – visit their website and their Facebook page.
