Parents of all cultures and backgrounds should get their kinder applications in for next year, says former AFL star Bachar Houli.
He joined with Early Childhood and Pre-Prep Minister Ingrid Stitt at Altona North Children’s Service in May.
“Early education has allowed my two girls to mix with kids of different backgrounds and cultures, and to learn more about themselves and others,” he said.
“My son Mohamed is so excited to be starting three-year-old kindergarten in 2024, and I can’t wait to see what he learns about the world.”
Before starting school, children can attend three-year-old kindergarten for five to 15 hours per week, followed by four-year-old kinder for 15 hours per week – and it’s all free.
“What a child experiences between the ages of three and five can make a big difference to their development and wellbeing,” Ms Stitt said.
“Free kinder supports every Victorian child to get the best start in life, no matter where they live.”
Many councils with central enrolment processes will start allocating kinder places in July.
Research shows play-based learning is a powerful way to support a child’s learning and development, with two years of kindergarten better than one.
Play encourages children to use their imagination and make discoveries while learning to listen, share and take turns.
Children also learn about numbers, words and language, develop social and emotional skills, and build essential skills that go on to serve them for life.
“Everyone benefits from kindergarten,” Ms Stitt said.
“Children get to experience new adventures while getting quality early education and families, in particular women, have more flexibility to return to work if they choose.”
Families are encouraged to visit their local kindergartens to meet staff and see the services in action.
Parents should also look for a Kinder Tick, so they can be confident their child will be attending a funded kindergarten program.
Visit vic.gov.au/kinder or contact your local council for more.
