Going back to work after raising your child at home - whether it’s been months or years - comes with a lot of emotions. There’s excitement, of course. But also nerves. Guilt. Pride. And maybe a little sadness too.
Whether you’re returning to a job you love or starting something brand new, we want you to know: you’re not alone. At Kids Academy Early Learning, we’ve supported thousands of families, just like yours, through this transition. And we’re here to help make the change feel a little easier, a little more supported, and a lot more confident.
This Is a Big Step, And That’s Okay
Leaving your child in someone else’s care after being their everything day in and day out isn’t easy. You might be wondering: Will they be okay without me? Will I be okay without them?
The answer? Yes. With the right support, you both will adjust, and even thrive.
💛 Tip: Talk through your feelings with someone you trust. It’s okay to feel unsure or emotional. This isn’t just about a new job, it’s about a new chapter for both of you.
Start Slow (If You Can)
If your schedule allows, consider easing into care with a few shorter days. This gives your child time to get to know their educators and environment, and gives you time to settle into your new rhythm, too.
Our teams at Kids Academy are happy to help you plan a smooth start, including orientation visits and flexible transitions. You can also check out our Settling In guide for helpful strategies.
Our Curriculum Begins With Connection
At Kids Academy, learning starts with relationships. Our Lifelong Learning Curriculum is designed to help babies and young children form strong, secure attachments with their educators, because we know children learn best when they feel safe, seen, and loved.
From the first moment your child walks through our doors, our focus is on making them feel welcomed, valued, and comforted. We take the time to understand their routines, preferences, and personality, because trust builds one moment at a time.
💛 Tip: Share what comforts your child, whether it’s a dummy, a bottle, a sleep song, or a routine from home. We’ll do our best to mirror those comforts in our care.
Your Child’s Safety Is Our Highest Priority
If you’re worried about safety, you’re not alone. We hear that question every day, and we’re proud of how we can answer it.
At Kids Academy, child safety is our top priority. Our centres use secure entry systems, follow strict supervision practices, and employ qualified educators who are trained in first aid and child protection.
💛 Tip: Touring local centres soon? Bring our Childcare Centre Checklist. It will help you ask the right questions and feel empowered when choosing the best fit for your family.
You Won’t Miss a Thing
We know how hard it is to be apart, especially in the early weeks. That’s why we prioritise daily communication, so you always feel connected.
Through our secure app, you’ll receive updates on sleep, meals, playtime, and more. You can even see photos and snapshots of their day. Learn more about how we stay in touch.
💛 Tip: Start a new family tradition like looking through your child’s photo updates together at bedtime - it helps you stay close even when you’re apart.
Make Mornings a Little Easier
It’s amazing how small steps can ease the mental load. A little prep the night before makes mornings less rushed and drop-offs less stressful.
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Use our What to Bring to Childcare checklist to pack your child’s bag.
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Plan your own outfit, lunch, and to-do list in advance.
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Leave five extra minutes for goodbye cuddles.
You also won’t need to worry about lunch - our Healthy Menu features fresh, nutritious meals cooked daily, perfect for little ones with growing appetites and big days ahead.
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
It’s easy to feel like you need to do everything perfectly. But parenting isn’t about perfection - it’s about connection, care, and doing your best in each moment.
💛 Tip: Returning to work doesn’t make you less of a parent, it simply adds another dimension to the incredible role you already play. Your child is learning resilience and confidence just by watching you take this step.
We’re Ready When You Are
Thinking about enrolment or planning ahead for your return? We’re here when you're ready.
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Learn how to enrol in a few simple steps
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Wondering how much child care costs? We’ll help you make sense of the Child Care Subsidy and inclusions
From Redbank Plains to Ringwood East, Kensington to Kedron, our Kids Academy centres are here to support you and your child through this new season, with warmth, care, and expert guidance every step of the way.