Questions to ask childcare providers

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Choosing a childcare centre is an important decision, especially for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Here are essential tips and questions for families.

Understanding your child’s rights

Children with disabilities can enrol in any early childhood education and care (ECEC) or childcare service in Australia. Children with disability have the same rights as their peers to enrol in early childhood services and participate in the services on the same basis as the other children attending the service.

All children with disabilities in Australia are protected by the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA). Your child is covered by the DDA when attending any ECEC service. This includes long day care centres, family day care services, kindergartens, and preschools. ECEC services cannot limit the number of children with disabilities they accept. Generally, they cannot refuse enrolment due to a lack of funding. If the service is not currently set up to support your child, they must make necessary changes unless they can prove an exception applies.

Questions for the childcare provider

Staff – The team around your child

You want a team of people who are qualified, warm, respectful and interested in your child and their communication and learning needs.

What qualifications do the educators have? (By law, at least half must hold or be working towards a diploma-level qualification, and the rest should hold a Certificate III qualification.)
Are the educators mostly full-time, part-time, or casual staff? (Full-time staff often provide more consistency for your child.)
How long have the room leaders worked at the centre? (Lower staff turnover usually means more stable care.)
Do the educators have experience working with children who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have other additional needs?
Are they open to training and learning from you about your child’s communication and support needs?

Inclusion

Inclusion is how the centre adapts its environment and practices so all children can learn and participate fully.

Do educators seem confident and enthusiastic about welcoming your child?
Does the centre have clear policies about inclusion and participation?
Are there other children with hearing loss or additional needs at the centre?
Will the service apply for Inclusion Support Program funding if needed?

Accessibility

Accessibility is how the centre’s spaces and activities help children of all abilities to play together and take part in activities.

Who will take responsibility for your child’s listening devices?
Will staff learn basic sign language or key communication strategies?
Are there resources and equipment to support communication and participation?
How will the educators make sure your child can be fully involved in play and learning?
Are there quiet spaces available if your child needs them?

Communicating with you

Open and ongoing communication between parents and the childcare centre is vital.

How will the educators update you about your child’s day?
How do staff share important information with one another so everyone understands your child’s needs?
How will they inform you if your child is struggling or needs extra support?

More information

Advocating for your child: the early years | Australian Government Department of Education – toolkit for parents and caregivers of young children with disability.
RLT – Choosing and starting child care
Inclusion Support Program | Australian Government Department of Education