--- title: "Childcare Montebello" url: https://www.communitykids.com.au/our-centres/childcare-mt-gambier-montebello description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Community Kids Montebello. Enquire today to secure a place." type: page date: 2024-08-02 modified: 2026-08-21 --- # Childcare Montebello ## Community Kids Montebello Early Education Centre Places available [73 Suttontown Road Mount Gambier SA 5290](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=73+Suttontown+Road+Mount+Gambier+SA+5290) [1800 411 604](tel:1800%20411%20604) [montebello@communitykids.com.au](mailto:montebello@communitykids.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $178.90 Toddler $178.90 Preschool $178.90 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) [4.8 /5 19 reviews](.g8-google-reviews) ## Enrolment availability The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre. - Monday - Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday - Friday Green – Places available now Orange – Limited availability Availability can change quickly. For the most up-to-date information and advice, please contact our Family Support Team. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre) ## 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. #### Rock ponds, mud kitchens and outdoor meals Children have space to explore outdoors, with climbing equipment, rock ponds, mud kitchens and sandpits. Sheltered outdoor areas also give children places for meals, small group experiences and quieter moments outside. #### Indoor spaces for creative play Indoor rooms include engaging resources and play-based experiences for creativity, exploration and discovery. Children can paint, build, pretend, investigate and follow the ideas that come up in their play. #### Passionate and experienced team Our experienced educator team includes artists and food enthusiasts who bring their own interests into the program. Painting, cooking and creative projects become part of children’s everyday learning, not just one-off activities. #### Government-approved Preschool program Our Government-approved preschool program is delivered by Bachelor-qualified teachers. Children build confidence, independence and early learning skills through play, routines, friendships and group experiences. #### 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. #### Art, cooking, sport and community visits Children take part in sports sessions, cooking classes and regular art experiences during the week. The program also includes local outings and visits from community members, including an Aboriginal elder each term. #### Fresh meals prepared daily Our in-house chef prepares breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack each day. Meals and snacks are planned for variety, with allergies, dietary requirements, preferences and cultural needs catered for. #### Daily updates via the family app Families stay connected through regular conversations with educators and updates shared in our family app. Photos, routines and key moments from the day help families see what their child has been doing and enjoying. ## Childcare and preschool in Mount Gambier, SA Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre) ## 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. Read moreless ## 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. ##### Book a tour to experience our centre today [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre) ## Age-appropriate early learning ### 6 weeks – 2 years Nursery ### Nursery 6 weeks – 2 years In our nursery environment, educators focus on building strong, secure and respectful relationships so babies feel safe, settled and supported as they explore the world around them. Children in this age group experience: - Responsive care and nurturing relationships that support emotional security and attachment - Sensory exploration through textures, sounds, music and movement - Early communication development through songs, stories, gestures and conversations - Tummy time and movement experiences that support physical development [Our nursery rooms](https://www.communitykids.com.au/childcare-and-early-education/nursery) ### 2 – 3 years Toddlers ### Toddlers 2 – 3 years Our toddler program encourages curiosity, independence and early social skills as children begin exploring the world with growing confidence. Children in this age group experience: - Play-based learning experiences that encourage curiosity and problem solving - Language-rich environments with storytelling, songs and conversations - Opportunities to build independence, such as self-help skills and routines - Social learning experiences that help children practise sharing, cooperation and empathy [Our toddler rooms](https://www.communitykids.com.au/childcare-and-early-education/toddlers) ### 3 – 5 years Preschool ### Preschool 3 – 5 years Our Government-approved Preschool program prepares children for school through engaging, play-based learning experiences that develop confidence, independence and a love of learning. Children in this age group will build: - Early literacy and numeracy skills through play-based activities, stories, songs and everyday routines - Problem solving and critical thinking through play-based projects and exploration - Collaboration and teamwork through group learning experiences - Self-help skills that support school routines, such as opening lunchboxes, looking after belongings and getting dressed independently [Funded Preschool in SA](https://www.communitykids.com.au/family-information/funded-kindergarten-preschool/south-australia) ## What a typical day looks like for your child ### 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 ### 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 ### 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 ### 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 ### 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 ### 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. #### 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** *This estimator provides an estimate only and is based on the following assumptions: - Accuracy and currency of family income information entered. - Family CCS entitlements include 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight. Please note your family may be entitled to less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight – if you are unsure we recommend you use the comprehensive CCS estimator in the link below. - Where 1-4 days of care is selected, full day sessions apply (being full operational hours of the centre, which can vary between centres). - Where 5 days of care is selected, 10-hour per day sessions apply (ie, 50 hours p/w to optimise 100 hours of CCS subsidised care across the fortnight). - Where a family’s CCS entitlements include less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, please use the comprehensive CCS calculator as a guide. - NSW Preschool Fee Relief is effective from 1st January 2026.   Kindergarten/preschool subsidy is subject to State Government specific requirements including child age eligibility criteria and the delivery of the funded program by an Early Childhood Teacher on the day the subsidy is claimed by the family. Calculations herein are based on the assumption all eligibility criteria is met. Please contact your centre for detailed information. Read more Book a tour ### Send your results by email Enter your email address and we’ll send you a copy of your calculation results. ## What our families say 4.8(19 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### Aleesha Agnew 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. ### 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. ### 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%! ### 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. ### Source: Google Business Profile G8 Education does not control or endorse the content of individual reviews. We encourage families to contact the centre directly for the most up-to-date information. ## Explore nearby G8 Education centres Looking for other great childcare, kindergarten or preschool options? Discover more G8 Education centres near you! - [Community Kids Mount Gambier Early Education Centre 2.02km](https://www.communitykids.com.au/our-centres/childcare-mount-gambier) ## 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.](/book-a-tour) 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.](/family-information/how-to-enrol) ## 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.](/family-information/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](/family-information/family-communication). 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. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-montebello-early-education-centre)