Choosing a 4 year old kinder program is a big decision, and it helps to picture what your child’s day will actually look like. At Nest, our funded kinder program runs inside long day care, so children enjoy a full, balanced day of learning, play, meals and rest. Here is a look at the general flow of a day in our Kindergarten room.
4 year old kinder inside long day care
Our Kindergarten room is for children aged four to six in the year before Prep. The government-funded kinder program is delivered within long day care all 52 weeks of the year, led by bachelor-qualified early childhood teachers. Families do not need to juggle separate drop-offs for kinder and care, which makes busy weeks a little easier.
Our centre is open from 6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday, so each child’s day can start and finish at a time that suits their family.
Morning: arrival, breakfast and settling in
Mornings begin with a warm welcome. Children say goodbye to their families, find their friends and ease into the day. Breakfast and morning tea are prepared by our on-site chef, with culturally diverse, allergy-aware menus.
As the room fills, children gather to talk about the day ahead. This is a time to share news, discuss ideas and decide together which interests to explore.
For children who arrive early, the first part of the morning is often calm and gentle, with quiet play and time to connect with educators before the busier part of the day begins.
Play-based learning through the day
Our program is Reggio Emilia-inspired and follows the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework. That means children learn through play, projects and their own questions, with teachers guiding and extending their thinking.
Across the day, you might see children:
- Building, constructing and testing ideas with blocks and loose parts.
- Drawing, painting and creating with a wide range of materials.
- Exploring stories, songs, rhymes and early writing.
- Counting, sorting, measuring and solving problems through play.
- Running, climbing and playing games outdoors, sun-protected with sunscreen and a hat.
- Working on group projects that grow from the children’s interests.
Our weekly incursions bring sports, arts, music and yoga into the centre at no extra cost, and our STEM and enrichment programs add even more to explore.
School readiness, rest and the afternoon
Our school readiness program is part of everyday life in the Kindergarten room. Children practise skills like following routines, managing belongings, taking turns, listening in a group and expressing their feelings. These are the skills that help children settle confidently into Prep.
After a nourishing lunch, children have a quieter time to rest and recharge. Some may sleep, while others relax with books or calm activities. Afternoon tea and a late snack keep energy up as the day continues with more play, both indoors and outside.
Throughout the day, families receive updates through our parent app, so you can see what your child has been learning and talk about it on the way home.
Families also appreciate the practical side of a long day. Meals and milk are included, along with nappies for children who still need them, bed linen, sunscreen and a summer hat. Before starting, families can attend orientation sessions so children can meet the team and become familiar with the room.
Come and see our Kindergarten room
Every day in kinder looks a little different, because it is shaped by the children and their interests. What stays the same is a warm, caring team and a program designed to help children feel ready for school. Children leave each afternoon with new ideas, new friendships and plenty to tell you about.
If you are looking for 4 year old kinder in Keysborough, we would love to show you around. Book a tour or call our team on 03 9969 7057 to find out more.
