Preschool programs: why they’re good for children
Preschool helps children:
- build new knowledge and skills – for example, they learn numeracy skills and literacy skills
- improve communication and social skills through playing and interacting with other children and adults
- make new friends and develop new relationships with adults
- develop gross motor skills through activities like creative movement and drama
- practise fine motor skills through activities like drawing and cutting with scissors
- develop self-regulation, problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- develop responsibility, independence, confidence and self-worth through doing things like looking after their own belongings and spending time away from home
- get ready for the transition to school.
Each Australian state or territory has a different approach to preschool. What preschool is called also varies from state to state – for example, in some states it might be called kindergarten. Find out more about preschool in your state or territory.
What happens in a preschool program?
Preschool is all about play-based learning.
Preschool programs encourage many different types of play-based learning experiences, including indoor and outdoor play, as well as opportunities for individual and group play. These varied experiences allow children to explore their own interests and develop at their own pace.
Indoor learning experiences often include:
- painting and drawing
- puzzles and games
- construction – for example, with blocks or Lego
- books
- dramatic play
- sensory activities like fabric play or playdough play
- digital technology use like singing and dancing apps
- imaginative play.
Outdoor learning experiences often include:
- sand play
- play in the natural environment
- woodwork
- water play
- dramatic play
- swings and climbing equipment.
Group learning experiences often include:
- music
- movement
- dancing
- singing
- drama
- storytelling
- group meetings.
When can children go to preschool?
In general, children can go to preschool when they’re 4 years old, or in the year they turn 4. Some preschools in some states and territories also offer programs for 3-year-old children.
Sometimes things can get in the way of children going to preschool. Play is a great way to support your child’s learning and development at home. You can encourage your child to try play activities that are like the activities they’d do at preschool – for example, playing with cardboard boxes, making a collage and reading together.
Where can children go to preschool?
You can find preschools in your area by asking friends, neighbours or your child and family health nurse.
You can also contact your local council or state or territory education department (by phone or via its website) to ask for a list of preschools in your area.
What kinds of preschools are there?
In Australia there are several different types of preschool programs and kindergartens. All preschool programs are run by qualified early childhood teachers:
- Sessional preschools – these offer programs ranging from 2½-7 hours a day, for 2, 3 or 5 days per week.
- Long day care programs – some long day care centres offer preschool programs.
- Steiner, Montessori and Reggio Emilia inspired preschools – these offer programs based on individual philosophies about children’s learning. The program models and hours vary.
- 3-year-old groups – these programs might include a group run by a qualified teacher at a kindergarten or preschool.
Most preschools operate in purpose-built facilities, although in more remote areas they can be mobile or online. Preschool programs might be managed by a volunteer parent committee, local government, state education department, independent school or private company.
The Australian Government provides funding to all states and territories to ensure all children have access to early childhood education, particularly in the year before they start school. There might still be a fee, and your local preschool can tell you about the fees it charges.