3 day guarantee

Community Kids Montebello Early Education Centre

Places available

Enrolment availability

The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre.

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and Preschool in Mount Gambier, SA

Community Kids Montebello offers long day care and a Preschool program for children aged 6 weeks to school age, conveniently located for families in Suttontown and Mount Gambier.

Spacious outdoor environments

Children can explore our spacious outdoor environments including climbing equipment, rock ponds, mud kitchens and sandpits, with sheltered areas for outdoor meals and small group experiences.

Indoor spaces that spark curiosity

Our indoor learning spaces include engaging resources and play-based experiences that encourage creativity, exploration and discovery.

Passionate and experienced team

We have a highly-experienced team of educators, including artists and food enthusiasts who bring painting, cooking and creative experiences into children’s everyday learning.

Government-approved Preschool program

Our Government-approved Preschool program is delivered by Bachelor-qualified teachers, helping children build confidence and prepare for school.

Individual Learning Plans for every child

We create Individual Learning Plans for each child, based on their interests, strengths and developmental goals, and partner with families to regularly review and update each plan.

Creative experiences and community learning

Children take part in sports sessions, cooking classes and regular art experiences as part of the weekly program. We also enjoy local outings and visits from community members, including an Aboriginal elder each term.

Fresh meals prepared daily

Children enjoy a variety of nutritious meals and snacks across the day, designed to support energy, growth and healthy eating habits. Menus are adapted to meet allergies and individual dietary requirements.

Daily updates via the family app

Stay connected with photos, updates and key moments from your child’s day. Our app helps you follow their learning, routines and experiences as they happen.

Childcare and preschool in Mount Gambier, SA

Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child.

Meet our Centre Manager

Jessica

  • Diploma of Community Services
“Our indoor and outdoor environments promote discovery, exploration, investigation, and imagination, providing hands-on experiences that help children develop lifelong skills.”

I started working in early learning in 2010 and joined the team at Community Kids Montebello in 2022. My passion for early years learning drew me to this role, allowing me to guide children through their educational journey. I am committed to child-led learning and actively participating in children’s development throughout the service. I firmly believe it takes a village to raise a child, with the community and myself playing crucial roles in each child’s growth.

At Community Kids Montebello, we believe children learn best through play. Our indoor and outdoor environments promote discovery, exploration, investigation, and imagination, providing hands-on experiences that help children develop lifelong skills. With access to age-appropriate learning resources, trained educators, and new experiences among friends, we create an environment dedicated to learning and thriving.

Our experienced and multicultural team, characterised by low staff turnover, successfully delivers on our children’s ambitious plans. This stability encourages many families to stay with us from nursery to preschool years. We are passionate about creating a child care centre that feels like a home away from home.

We understand that starting at a new centre can be overwhelming. From the first enquiry, we ensure all your questions are addressed one by one. We guide families through all necessary forms and administration, including enrolment forms, Child Care Subsidy (CCS), subsidies, government caps, centre schedules, and our centre menu.

I look forward to welcoming you to Community Kids Montebello early education centre in Mount Gambier.

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Our innovative early learning programs

At our early learning centre in Mount Gambier, our play-based curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), supporting children to learn through play, exploration and discovery.

Sustainability

We proudly feature a hallway display and drop-off location for the public to donate items, which our educators repurpose creatively. We participate in Earth Hour, maintain a vegetable garden, and use a clothesline instead of a dryer.

Inclusion

We create a sense of belonging for your child to ensure they feel heard and empowered to make choices, fostering their independence. We celebrate each child’s unique strengths, helping them to thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Community engagement

We go on community outings to enrich children’s experiences and foster community connections. We also host visits from local community members, providing diverse and engaging learning opportunities.

Exploration and problem solving

Educators introduce open-ended materials and invitations to explore, such as building, measuring and experimenting. Through shared conversations and investigation, children develop curiosity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Age-appropriate early learning

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(0-2 years)

Nursery

Our nursery room is purposely designed to make every baby feel safe exploring and discovering new things. Our spaces are filled with sensory experiences and activities to encourage intentional and responsive play-based learning. We focus on building secure relationships between children and educators, closely following home routines, and supporting each child in meeting their developmental milestones.

  Next: Toddlers
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(2-3 years)

Toddlers

Our toddler room is set up with intentional play-based learning in mind. Within the curriculum framework, play enables your toddler to develop fundamental skills for life-long learning. It also creates the perfect environment to socialise and form friendships. Our activities enhance language skills and promote collaborative group play, laying a strong foundation for their future learning experiences.

Previous: Nursery Next: Preschool
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Preschool

In our preschool room, our curriculum is tailored to accommodate your child’s individual learning and development needs, which helps boost their enthusiasm, motivation, and willingness to learn. Through structured learning experiences, our Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers and educators are committed to helping your child gain the necessary skills for a successful transition into school and beyond.

Previous: Toddlers  
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Preschool and school-readiness program

At our early learning centre, your child will benefit from our enhanced learning program in preschool combined with our play-based learning program. With the added convenience of long daycare hours, our preschool program runs all year round, perfect for busy families.

The added benefits of our preschool program include:

  • Extended long day care opening hours
  • Open all year round (excl. public holidays)
  • Programs developed and delivered by our qualified educators and teachers
  • Exclusive music and movement program for self-regulation
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We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Thanks to the in-house chef at our Mount Gambier child care centre, your child can expect healthy, nutritious, and yummy meals. We offer a rotating seasonal menu, providing breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late snack freshly made daily. We cater to all dietary requirements, including halal.

What a typical day looks like for your child

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Arrival at the centre

Your child will be welcomed by our team of educators, who will ensure the morning transition from home to centre goes as smoothly as possible. On arrival, share information about your child’s specific needs for the day.

  Next: Mealtimes
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Mealtimes

Our centre chefs prepare a nutritious menu for your child to sit down and eat. This is a great time for everyone to share stories from the day. Educators model healthy eating practices, social behaviours and support children’s growing independence with mealtime routines.

Previous: Arrival at the centre Next: Infant care
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Infant care

If you have an infant, we spend one-on-one time with them to establish a connection. Educators talk gently and respond to babies’ cues. We use songs, games, and conversations to strengthen relationships and build language skills.

Previous: Mealtimes Next: Play-based learning
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Play-based learning

Your child is naturally curious. They want to learn and explore, which is why we teach through play-based learning. It supports language, motor skills, memory, emotions and social relationships. Educators plan play-based learning experiences based on children’s interests and goals.

Previous: Infant care Next: Sleep, rest and relaxation
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Sleep, rest and relaxation

We match routines to your child’s individual needs. Opportunities for rest and relaxation help make them feel safe. Play-based learning experiences are provided for older children who no longer don’t sleep in centre.

Previous: Play-based learning Next: Heading home
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Heading home

As your child prepares to head home, this is your opportunity to speak with our friendly educators about your child’s day and everything they learnt. We look forward to welcoming you back tomorrow.

Previous: Sleep, rest and relaxation  

Fees

The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your daily out-of-pocket fee by up to 95% depending on your family’s entitlements.

Nursery

0 – 2 years

$178.90/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$178.90/day

Preschool

4 – 5 years

$178.90/day

Step 1: Family Information & Financial State

Child Care Subsidy Estimator

Discover how much child care subsidy you may be entitled to by entering the fields below.

**1-4 days = 12 hour sessions, 5 days = 100 hours

Changes to CCS – The 3-Day Guarantee (Starting 5th January 2026)

The Australian Government is replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test from 5th January 2026, to provide a min. 72 hours per fortnight or 3 days per week of subsidised early childhood education and care (ECEC) for eligible families.

2026 3-Day Guarantee

From 5th January 2026, based on the information you have entered, here's an estimate of your CCS entitlements and your out-of-pocket costs.

Total Fees

$0.00

Estimated CCS Fee Subsidy

$0.00

Preschool/Preschool Subsidy

$0.00

Out of Pocket Cost (what you pay)

$0.00

Matrix Out of Pocket Cost

Is your CCS working for you? Check the out-of-pocket cost matrix per child against session lengths and weekly days below. Please note: The table in the matrix only shows out-of-pocket costs after CCS (Child Care Subsidy).

Child 1 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days 4 Days 5 Days

*Kindergarten/preschool subsidy applied: $0.00

What our families say

4.8(18 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Aleesha Barton

Fantastic centre!! My daughter has been going to community kids Montebello for 1.5 years. She loves her days there, it's filled with lots of play and learning. The educators are caring, kind and experienced. She's had the same educators for a while…. See more Fantastic centre!! My daughter has been going to community kids Montebello for 1.5 years. She loves her days there, it's filled with lots of play and learning. The educators are caring, kind and experienced. She's had the same educators for a while now, and built a lovely relationship with each one. Very easy to get casual days there too if needed.

Jodie Glasson

A wonderful group of committed educators who are super supportive in seeing all kids grow and thrive. The centre considers each child's strengths and areas for development and creates a nurturing environment for these to be recognised and achieved….. See more A wonderful group of committed educators who are super supportive in seeing all kids grow and thrive. The centre considers each child's strengths and areas for development and creates a nurturing environment for these to be recognised and achieved. A centre with a genuine family feel. Would recommend 100%!

Ashlee Brunskill

The best daycare service we have ever used, all of the staff know personally and care deeply about all children in the service, not only the children in their rooms. The staff are always warm and welcoming and always provide to the children's…. See more The best daycare service we have ever used, all of the staff know personally and care deeply about all children in the service, not only the children in their rooms. The staff are always warm and welcoming and always provide to the children's individual needs. The centre is always clean, well organised and all staff are always actively playing with the children as opposed to just supervising. Nothing is ever too much to ask for this centre and their staff. The thing our family likes the most about this centre is the relationships built with staff and that all of the children as a whole always seem to be happy and well cared for.

Kacee Copping

Our daughter has been attending CK Montebello for 3 months and has been loving it! She has made some great connections with both peers and educators and they always welcome our family with warmth. 🥰

Prue Rookas

We have absolutely no issue sending our 14 month old daughter to CK Montebello. She feels super comfortable with the educators which in turn makes us comfortable in leaving her there. Jess & the staff are attentive, caring and all round amazing with…. See more We have absolutely no issue sending our 14 month old daughter to CK Montebello. She feels super comfortable with the educators which in turn makes us comfortable in leaving her there. Jess & the staff are attentive, caring and all round amazing with the little people in their care. The Xplor app is constantly being updated with what they have done with our daughter during the day. This makes my nerves ease every time I get a notification. Thank you for making our transition to day care much easier than anticipated.

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Frequently asked questions

A centre tour is a convenient way to experience the childcare centre of your choice and meet with our qualified educators at a time that is suitable for your family’s schedule. Click here to book a tour online.

On the day of the tour, you can observe practices and interactions within the centre environment. You’ll be able to see all the rooms and playgrounds, ask the team members any questions you have in mind, and get all the information you need to make the best decision for your child.

Enrolling is simple, and our Family Support Team will guide you through each step.

First, find your local centre and book a tour so you can meet the team and explore the learning environment. If the centre is the right fit and a place is available, you’ll receive an enrolment offer for your child. If a place is not currently available in your child’s age group, we can add your child to the waitlist and keep you updated.

To finalise your enrolment, you’ll complete an online enrolment form through a secure link sent by our Family Support Team. You’ll also need to provide key details and documents, including your child’s birth certificate, Medicare details, immunisation history statement and, if eligible, your Child Care Subsidy details.

Before your child’s first day, you may be invited to attend a Stay and Play session. This gives your child time to explore the centre, meet their educators, and start feeling comfortable in their new environment. Once your paperwork is complete, your child is ready to start their early learning journey with us.

Read our step-by-step guide on how to enrol here.

Starting child care is a big milestone, and a little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and confident.

Before your child’s first day, you can talk positively about their new centre, explain what their day might look like, and practise small routines such as packing their bag, saying goodbye, washing hands and sitting down for meals. You may also like to visit the centre with your child, meet their educators and ask our team about what to bring on the first day.

When your child starts, our educators will take the time to get to know your child’s routine, interests, comfort items and individual needs. Settling in looks different for every child, so we work closely with families to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

Learn more about our Settling-in Program.

Most of our child care and early education centres offer nappies and wipes, sunscreen and hats, as well as nutritious meals prepared by our in-house cook. Some centres also provide sheets and formula, so you may not need to remember to pack them.

For nursery children, be sure to bring: nappy rash cream, dummies, bottles and teats, comfort toys or blankets, three spare outfits and spare socks.

For toddlers and preschool or kindergarten-aged children, it’s best to bring: spare underwear, water bottle or sippy cup, sun hat, closed-toe shoes, two spare outfits and spare socks.

Plus, anything else your individual child may need, such as breast milk, a sleeping bag, a comforter or medication.

It’s best to speak to your centre of choice for a full list of everything included.

Community Kids uses Xplor Home as our family communication app. It is the best and easiest way to keep track of your child’s day.

After you enrol your child with the centre, you can utilise Xplor Home to book child care days, manage your account, receive the photographs that capture your child’s learning, learn about your child’s progress, as well as keep up-to-date with upcoming centre events and important information.

If your child shows signs of an infectious illness when they arrive at the centre or becomes sick during the day, you may be notified that you need to make alternative arrangements or pick up your child from the centre and keep them home until they are no longer infectious. While we understand that this can be inconvenient, Community Kids is committed to maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of infection for all children.

Under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families are allowed 42 absence days per child, per financial year. These can be taken for any reason, including public holidays and when children are sick, without requiring families to provide documentation.

Contact us

We look forward to welcoming your family.