Adelaide, South Australia, has various high-quality early learning centres dedicated to nurturing and educating children during their formative years. These centres provide a supportive and stimulating environment tailored to the needs of young learners, ranging from infants to preschool-aged children. Recognised for their commitment to fostering holistic development, the top 20 early learning centres in Adelaide emphasise key areas such as cognitive growth, social-emotional skills, and physical well-being. With experienced educators, engaging curriculums, and purpose-built facilities, these centres ensure every child embarks on a meaningful educational journey.
Each of these early learning centres stands out for its unique approach to childcare and education, whether through innovative teaching methods, multicultural inclusivity, or environmental sustainability practices. From comprehensive long day care services to preschool programs and extracurricular activities, these centres cater to the diverse needs of families across Adelaide. Many also incorporate modern tools like apps for parent updates, nutritional meal plans, and flexible schedules, making them a valuable resource for busy parents. Collectively, these centres set the benchmark for early childhood education, offering children a strong foundation for future success.
Stepping Stone Childcare and Early Development Centres
Stepping Stone (SA) Childcare and Early Development Centres is a leading early childhood education and care provider in South Australia, operating 26 regional centres. Their mission is to offer a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can embark on their lifelong learning journey. The centres emphasise play-based learning, fostering children's natural curiosity and supporting their development through engaging interactions and imaginative experiences.
Services Offered:
- Baby Programming: Tailored activities that cater to the developmental needs of infants, promoting sensory exploration and early cognitive growth.
- Toddler Programming: Engaging experiences designed for toddlers to enhance language, motor skills, and social interactions.
- Kindy Room Programming: Preparatory programs for kindergarten-aged children focus on foundational literacy, numeracy, and emotional development skills.
- Nutritional Meals: Provision of balanced and nutritious meals to support healthy growth and development.
- Safety and Security Measures: Implement robust safety protocols to ensure a secure environment for all children.
- Sun Safe Practices: Adherence to sun safety guidelines to protect children during outdoor activities.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Programs aimed at teaching children about environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
Phone: (08) 8211 0200
Website: www.steppingstonesa.com.au
Westcare Early Learning Centre
Westcare Early Learning Centre is a purpose-built childcare facility in Adelaide, South Australia, offering quality education and care for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. The centre emphasises a Montessori-inspired approach, fostering an enriching learning environment that supports children's development and maximises their learning potential. With a team of dedicated professionals skilled in implementing the Early Years Learning Framework, Westcare ELC ensures a seamless transition from home to early education, creating a strong sense of well-being and encouraging exploration.
Services Offered:
- Age-Designated Rooms: These are tailored environments for different age groups, including a sleeping room and nursery (6 weeks to 18 months), a waddlers room (1 to 2 years), an early learning room (2 to 3 years), a pre-Kindy room, and a Kindy room.
- Montessori-Inspired Curriculum: Programs designed to support holistic child development, encouraging independence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
- Outdoor Play Areas: Safe and stimulating outdoor environments promote physical activity and social interaction.
- Qualified Educators: A team of professionals dedicated to providing personalised care and education, ensuring each child's unique needs are met.
- Flexible Operating Hours: Open Monday to Friday from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, accommodating various family schedules.
Contact Details:
Phone: (08) 7078 9927 / (08) 7118 1933
Email: portadelaide@westcareelc.com.au / camdenpark@westcareelc.com.au
Website: www.westcareelc.com.au
Guardian Childcare and Education
Australia's leading early childhood education and care provider is Guardian Childcare and Education. It is dedicated to fostering children's development from infancy through preschool. With numerous centres nationwide, Guardian emphasises a play-based learning approach, ensuring that each child receives personalised attention and thrives in a nurturing environment.
Services Offered:
- Infant Care: Tailored programs for babies, focusing on sensory experiences and foundational skill development.
- Toddler Programs: Engaging activities designed to promote curiosity, language acquisition, and social interaction.
- Preschool and Kindergarten: Comprehensive curriculum preparing children for school, emphasising literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking.
- Nutritional Meals: Healthy, balanced meals prepared daily to support children's growth and well-being.
- Extracurricular Activities: Diverse programs, including art, music, and physical education to enhance holistic development.
Phone: 1300 001 119
Website: guardian.edu.au
TAFE SA
TAFE SA (Technical and Further Education South Australia) is the state's leading vocational education and training provider. It offers diverse courses designed to equip students with practical skills for various industries. With campuses across South Australia, TAFE SA delivers programs from entry-level certificates to advanced diplomas and bachelor's degrees, ensuring accessible education for all learners. The institution emphasises hands-on training, industry engagement, and flexible learning options, including online and part-time study modes, to meet the evolving needs of students and employers.
Services Offered:
- Qualifications: Certificates, diplomas, and bachelor's degrees across multiple disciplines.
- Short Courses: Targeted training for skill development and personal interest.
- Online Courses: Flexible learning options accessible remotely.
- Apprenticeships & Traineeships: Combining practical work experience with formal training.
- Higher Education: Advanced study programs leading to bachelor's degrees.
- Courses for School Students: Programs for secondary students to gain vocational skills.
- Regional Courses: Training opportunities tailored for regional communities.
Phone: 1800 882 661
Website: www.tafesa.edu.au
Edge Early Learning
Edge Early Learning is Australia's leading early childhood education and care provider. It is dedicated to fostering children's development through play-based learning. Its programs are designed to nurture children's curiosity and skills, offering a supportive environment for growth. With centres across various regions, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, Adelaide, Canberra, and Cairns, Edge Early Learning ensures families can access quality childcare services.
Services Offered:
- Nursery Care: Focused on building respectful and caring relationships to empower infants through exploration.
- Toddler Programs: Aimed at developing a strong sense of identity and belonging during critical growth stages.
- Kindergarten Programs: Designed to teach children how to interact productively in group settings, enhancing social skills.
- At-Home Resources: Provides a library of videos, articles, and activities to support children's development at home.
Phone: 1300 721 366
Email: info@edgeearlylearning.com.au
Website: https://edgeearlylearning.com.au/
City Community Children's Centre
City Community Children's Centre, established in 1987, is a not-for-profit, community-based early childhood education and care centre located in the heart of Adelaide. The Centre is committed to providing quality child care that ensures children's emotional well-being, physical safety, and security in a nurturing and respectful environment. Catering to children from 6 weeks to school age, the Centre offers a stimulating, warm, and supportive environment that fosters learning and enhances each child's development.
Services Offered:
- Long Day Care is Open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
- Kindergarten Program: Accredited learning programs designed to prepare children for school.
- Evening/Night Care: Currently unavailable due to COVID-19; please check back for future updates.
- Nutritious Meals: Healthy meals are freshly cooked on the premises daily, offering a culturally diverse menu.
- Play-Based Learning: A learning environment representing the community and its cultures, including play areas encouraging exploration and curiosity.
- Qualified Staff: Experienced educators dedicated to supporting your child's learning experience.
- Parent Communication: Excellent feedback processes and reporting to parents.
Phone: 08 8212 2377
Email: office@cityccc.org.au
Website: https://www.cityccc.org.au/
Early Steps Child Care Centre
Early Steps Child Care Centre is a privately owned facility in Para Vista, Australia, offering quality education and care for children 8 weeks to school age. Established in 2009, the centre is licensed to accommodate up to 95 children. It is committed to providing a nurturing environment where children can learn and grow through play-based curricula aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework. The dedicated educators focus on building positive relationships with children and their families, ensuring a safe, stimulating, and fun-filled experience.
Services Offered:
- Long Day Care: Operating Monday to Friday from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm, excluding public holidays.
- Kindergarten Program: Led by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher, focusing on numeracy, literacy, and science to prepare children for school.
- Nutritional Meals: Prepared on-site by a cook catering to dietary requirements.
- Special Programs: Regular events like music sessions, TRI-SKILLS activities, and dental service visits.
- Age-Specific Rooms: Six rooms tailored to different age groups, each with specialised programs to support developmental milestones.
Phone: (08) 8263 3933 or (08) 8263 3866
Email: info@earlystepschildcare.com.au
Website: https://earlystepschildcare.com.au/
Little Shining Stars Early Learning Centre
Little Shining Stars Early Learning Centre is one of six Adelaide, South Australia centres. It is dedicated to fostering early childhood development through play-based learning in a safe and hygienic environment. The centre's core values emphasise education and learning, healthy meals, child safety, and building strong relationships with children and families.
Services Offer:
- Toddler Programs: Engaging activities for toddlers.
- Pre-Kindy and Kindy Programs: Preparatory learning experiences for preschool-aged children.
- Healthy Meals: Allergy-aware menus catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options.
- Safe Learning Environments: Clean, hygienic spaces with strict COVID management strategies.
- Family Engagement: Collaborative approach involving parents and carers to meet each child's requirements.
Phone: 08 8272 9194
Email: klemzig@littleshiningstars.com.au
Website: https://littleshiningstars.com.au/
Lockley Early Learning Centre
Lockleys Early Learning Centre is a privately owned South Australian organisation dedicated to providing quality early childhood education for children from birth to 5 years old in Lockleys and its neighbouring communities. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, the centre values children as capable individuals and emphasises their role as co-constructors of their learning. The facility boasts a natural park-like environment adjacent to the Karrawirri Parri (River Torrens), fostering exploration and connection with nature.
Services Offered:
- Birth to 2-year-old program
- 2-3-year-old program
- Education Department Universal Access Preschool Program, facilitated by registered early childhood teachers
- Specialist music and movement program
- Permanent care
- Casual care, subject to availability
Phone: 08 8234 6002
Website: https://lockleysearlylearning.com.au/
World of Learning
World of Learning is a network of 48 purpose-built childcare and early learning centres in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. It offers quality long-day care for babies and toddlers and government-approved Kindergarten and Preschool programs. Its innovative play-based learning program, delivered by passionate educators, follows the Early Years Learning Framework and covers key curriculum areas. The program emphasises language, literacy, and numeracy and supports children's social and emotional development, including resilience.
Services Offered:
- Nursery care for children from birth to 2 years
- Toddler programs for ages 2 to 3 years
- Kindergarten and Preschool programs for ages 3 to 5 years
- Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) program
- Environmental and social sustainability learning experiences
- Personalised learning plans for each child
- Extended hours with flexible 9, 10, 11, or 12-hour sessions
- Nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site
Phone: 1800 413 995
Website: www.worldoflearning.com.au
Daws Road Early Learning Centre
Daws Road Early Learning Centre is a nurturing childcare facility in Daw Park, South Australia. It offers a safe and stimulating environment for children aged six weeks to six years, focusing on early childhood education and development. The centre's programs foster growth, learning, and creativity, ensuring each child receives personalised attention to thrive during their formative years.
Services Offered:
- Infant Care: Tailored programs for babies aged 6 weeks to 15 months, emphasising a safe and nurturing environment.
- Toddler Program: Engaging activities for children aged 15 months to 3 years, promoting exploration and development.
- Preschool Program: School readiness initiatives for children aged 3 to 6 years, focusing on foundational skills.
- Nutritional Meals: Provision of healthy and balanced meals prepared on-site to support children's growth.
- Qualified Educators: Experienced staff dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education.
Phone: (08) 8276 7353
Email: info@dawsroadelc.com.au
Website: www.dawsroadearlylearning.com.au
Emali Early Learning Centre
Emali Early Learning Centre is a leading childcare provider in Adelaide, South Australia, dedicated to offering holistic early education for children from six weeks old. Their approach emphasises individualised learning experiences tailored to each child's developmental needs, utilising play-based methods aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly trained educators, Emali fosters resilience and confidence in children, preparing them for a bright future.
Services Offered:
- Age-Appropriate Programs:
- Babies (6 weeks – 2 years)
- Toddlers (2 – 4 years)
- Preschool (4 years+)
- Nutritious Meals: Fresh, organic, and culturally inclusive meals catering to various dietary needs.
- Health and Safety Measures: Regular hygiene checks, rigorous cleanliness standards, and safe, engaging environments with low chemical paints and antibacterial flooring.
- Qualified Educators: All staff possess diplomas or Certificates in Early Childhood Education, with up-to-date first aid, asthma, anaphylaxis, and CPR certifications.
- Flexible Learning Programs: Tailored to each child's unique developmental needs, promoting growth through play-based learning.
Phone: (08) 8232 8071
Website: www.emali.com.au
O'Halloran Hill Early Learning Centre
O'Halloran Hill Early Learning Centre, established in January 2014, is a family-owned childcare facility in O'Halloran Hill, Australia. Jillian and Michael Brodyk founded the centre, which offers a nurturing environment for children aged six weeks to five years. It emphasises play-based learning and strong relationships between educators and families. The Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) rates the centre as "exceeding" the National Quality Standard.
Services Offered:
- Baby Room: For children aged 6 weeks to 2 years, providing a warm and nurturing environment that supports individual routines and development.
- Toddler Room: Catering children aged 2 to 3½ years, focusing on supportive relationships and play-based learning to enhance social interactions and development.
- Kindy Room: Designed for children aged 3 to 5 years, offering a child-centred play approach that promotes holistic growth, including a Nature Play program and a Universal Access Kindy Program.
Phone: 08 8296 6564
Website: https://ohelc.com.au/
Prospect Community Early Education and Care
Prospect Community Early Education and Care is a community-based, not-for-profit centre in Prospect, South Australia. Established in 1994, the centre is licensed to accommodate up to 85 children daily across four purpose-built rooms: Vaughn, Hepburn, Redmond, and Whinham. The centre underwent significant renovations between 2014 and 2016 to enhance its facilities and better serve the community. Guided by a Management Committee and an experienced Director, the centre boasts a team of highly qualified educators, with over 80% holding a Diploma in Early Childhood Education or higher.
Services Offered:
- High-Quality Childcare: Providing care for children aged 0-5 years in a safe and nurturing environment.
- Educational Programs: Play-based learning and exploration to support all aspects of a child's development.
- Nutritional Meals: On-site cooks prepare daily meals, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea, accommodating all health and dietary needs.
- Qualified Educators: A team of dedicated professionals, with a significant majority holding advanced qualifications in early childhood education.
- Inclusive Environment: Commitment to inclusivity, supporting diverse backgrounds, beliefs, cultures, and family structures.
Phone: 08 8344 3066
Email: director@prospectcc.com.au
Website: https://www.prospectcc.com.au/
Blue Skies Early Learning Centre
Blue Skies Early Learning Centre, established on March 10, 2003, is a privately owned and family-operated childcare facility at 17 Famechon Crescent, Modbury North, South Australia. The centre offers care for children aged 6 weeks to school, operating 52 weeks a year from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm on weekdays. With a focus on continuity, the centre maintains consistent staffing and rosters, ensuring families can trust that their children are in the care of qualified professionals. Blue Skies emphasises meeting the individual needs of families through a flexible and creative approach, aiming to provide a nurturing environment for every child.
Services Offered:
- Baby Room: Dedicated to infants, providing a calm and secure environment with a staff ratio of 1:4. Activities include singing, reading, music, and dancing to foster development.
- Toddler/Pre-Kindy Group: Focuses on children’s individual needs, encouraging learning through play with both indoor and outdoor experiences. The staff ratio is 1:5 for toddlers and 1:10 for pre-kindy.
- Kindy Group: Aims to develop confidence and resilience in preparation for school years, offering a range of self-selected play and learning experiences with a staff ratio of 1:10.
- Meals Provided: All meals are supplied, ensuring nutritional needs are met and making it convenient for families.
- Kindy Program: Approved provider of a Kindy program available to children 12 months before starting school, overseen and delivered by an Early Childhood Teacher.
Phone: (08) 8395 8577
Email: info@blueskieschildcare.com.au
Website: https://www.blueskieschildcare.com.au/
Burnside Advanced Early Learning Centre
Burnside Advanced Early Learning Centre, located in Adelaide's eastern suburbs, offers a nurturing environment where children embark on educational journeys filled with exploration and creativity. Their philosophy emphasises empowering children to engage with their surroundings through play, fostering a sense of belonging and development. The centre is committed to building strong, trusting relationships with children and their families, ensuring a supportive community for early learning.
Services Offered:
- Infant Care (6 weeks—2 years): Tailored programs focus on infants' unique needs and promote early development in a safe setting.
- Toddler Programs (2-3 years): Activities designed to encourage curiosity and independence among toddlers.
- Preschool and Kindergarten Programs (3-5 years): Preparatory education that nurtures creativity and critical thinking, laying a solid foundation for future schooling.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Programs that teach children the importance of environmental stewardship through hands-on experiences.
- Hygiene and Infection Control: Strict protocols to maintain a clean and healthy environment for all attendees.
Phone: (08) 8331 2555
Website: www.burnsideaelc.com.au
Unley Early Learning Centre
Unley Early Learning Centre is a childcare facility located in Unley, South Australia, dedicated to supporting families by providing a nurturing and homely environment for children. The centre operates from 7:00 am to 6:30 pm, five days a week, and remains open 52 weeks a year, closing only on public holidays. Their philosophy emphasises the importance of each child reaching their full potential within a safe, stimulating setting that encourages physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development.
Services Offered:
- Comprehensive Childcare Programs: Tailored to develop children physically, emotionally, imaginatively, socially, and intellectually.
- Safe and Supportive Environment: Ensuring children feel secure, happy, and comfortable, with opportunities to explore and seek challenges safely.
- Cultural Diversity and Inclusion: Programs designed to respect and increase knowledge of the community's cultural diversity, encouraging children to appreciate and engage with the wider community.
- Balanced Activities: Providing a mix of active and restful periods to promote well-rounded development.
- Family Support: Acting as an extension of the family unit, supporting parents in the care and upbringing of their children.
Phone: (08) 8357 3800
Email: info@unleyearlylearning.com.au
Websites: https://www.unleyearlylearning.com.au
Grey Ward Children's Centre
Grey Ward Children's Centre is a childcare facility that provides children with a nurturing and stimulating environment. The centre recognises each child as unique within a culturally diverse community, emphasises the importance of family involvement, and respects various languages, customs, and beliefs. Its philosophy centres on extending family nurturing practices, including promoting nutritious meals and encouraging close parent engagement.
Services Offered:
- Baby Room: Tailored care for infants, focusing on their developmental needs.
- Nursery Room: Activities designed for toddlers to enhance early learning.
- Junior Kindy Room: Programs aimed at preparing children for kindergarten.
- Kindergarten/PreSchool Room: Comprehensive curriculum to ready children for school.
- Food & Nutrition: Provision of healthy meals and snacks to promote good eating habits.
Phone: (08) 8332 4169
Email: director@greywardcc.com.au
Website: https://www.greywardcc.com.au
Treetops Early Learning Centres
Treetops Early Learning Centres are purpose-built childcare facilities in Adelaide, South Australia. They offer care and education for children from six weeks to school age. Operating year-round, including school holidays, their centres are designed to cater to children's developmental needs in a safe and nurturing environment. Each location features spacious indoor play areas, well-appointed bathroom facilities, and secure outdoor playgrounds to support holistic child development.
Services Offered:
- Long Day Care: Full-day childcare services for children aged six weeks to preschool.
- Early Years Education: Programs focused on social, psychological, and educational development.
- Vacation Care: Available for children from Reception to Year 2 during school holidays, with all meals included.
- An open-door policy encourages parents to "stay and play," fostering family involvement in the child's learning experience.
- Nutritional Meals: Provision of morning snacks, lunch, and afternoon snacks prepared daily.
- Xplor App: A mobile application for parents to track their child's daily activities, learning progress, and health metrics.
Phone: 1300 92 68 68
Website: www.treetopschildcare.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Learning
When choosing an ELC, consider factors like location, the qualifications of the staff, the curriculum, and the centre’s overall reputation. It's important to visit the centre, observe the facilities, and ask about their approach to learning, safety measures, and the types of programs they offer.
Most Early Learning Centres in Adelaide follow the Belonging, Being, and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). This is a nationally recognised curriculum in Australia that focuses on play-based learning and encourages children to explore and develop skills in areas such as social interaction, language, creativity, and problem-solving.
Yes, many Early Learning Centres in Adelaide have waiting lists, especially for younger age groups or high-demand centres. It is recommended to apply as early as possible, sometimes up to 12 months in advance, to secure a spot for your child.
The cost of attending an Early Learning Centre in Adelaide can vary depending on the age of the child, the location of the centre, and the type of care provided. On average, fees range from $70 to $150 per day. Some centres may charge additional fees for meals, excursions, or special activities.