--- title: "Childcare Pakenham" url: https://www.communitykids.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Community Kids Pakenham. Enquire today to secure a place." type: page date: 2024-08-02 modified: 2026-05-25 --- # Childcare Pakenham ## Community Kids Pakenham Places available [95 Army Rd Pakenham VIC 3810](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=95+Army+Rd+Pakenham+VIC+3810) [1800 411 604](tel:1800%20411%20604) [pakenham@communitykids.com.au](mailto:pakenham@communitykids.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $163.65 Toddler $163.65 Kindergarten $163.65 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) [4.6 /5 68 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-pakenham) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-pakenham) ## Childcare and kindergarten in Pakenham, VIC Community Kids Pakenham offers long day care and a Kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to school age, conveniently located for families in Pakenham, Nar Nar Goon, Nar Nar Goon North and Pakenham Upper in Melbourne. #### All-weather outdoor enviroments Children can explore our spacious outdoor environments featuring a bike track, vegetable garden, climbing equipment, and a sandpit. Our undercover outdoor play areas allow active play and discovery in different weather conditions. #### Indoor spaces for creative play Our indoor learning spaces include interactive whiteboards, an indoor climbing fort and open-plan learning areas that support exploration, creativity and play-based learning. #### Stable and experienced team Our longstanding educator team provides consistency and strong relationships with families, with some educators having more than 20 years of service. #### Government-approved Kindergarten program Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers. Our Kindergarten teachers work in collaboration with local primary schools to help children build confidence and feel prepared for their transition to 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. #### Weekly enrichment programs Children enjoy enrichment programs, including weekly Active8 Health and Fitness incursions for all age groups. #### Healthy meals prepared each day Balanced meals and snacks are provided each day to support children’s healthy growth, development and energy for learning. Our menus cater for allergies and individual dietary requirements. #### Daily updates through our family app Families receive daily updates and photos through our family app, helping them stay connected to their child’s learning and experiences. ## Secure your place today Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-pakenham) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-pakenham) ## Meet our Centre Manager Cassie ### - * Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care "I am committed to ensuring every child feels safe, welcomed, and cared for, and that each family feels a strong sense of belonging within our centre community." I began my career in early childhood education in 2012 as an Assistant Educator and have since progressed through roles including Lead Educator and Assistant Centre Manager. I have been working as a Centre Manager since 2018, and joined Community Kids Pakenham in 2025. I am passionate about leading and guiding educators to create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all children. Throughout my career, I have built strong relationships with children, families, and teams. From my first day in early childhood education, I was inspired by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in each child’s life. I am committed to ensuring every child feels safe, welcomed, and cared for, and that each family feels a strong sense of belonging within our centre community. Our centre is an extension of home, where children can learn, grow, and feel part of a supportive community. Our team at Community Kids Pakenham is dedicated to providing engaging and enriching learning environments. We are proud of our diverse team and the strong culture we have built together. Many of our educators have been with the centre for over 10 years, which provides consistency and strong relationships for children and families. Supporting families is at the heart of what we do. We focus on daily communication, understanding each family’s individual needs, and working in partnership to support every child’s development. Through ongoing conversations and genuine care, we build strong, trusting relationships with our families. I look forward to welcoming your family to our centre community, Read moreless ## Our innovative early learning programs At our early learning centre in Pakenham, our experienced educators and teachers continually seek innovative ways to enrich your child’s education. Guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, we offer a variety of engaging and diverse learning experiences, including: #### Sustainability Our centre promotes sustainability through various initiatives, including recycling, maintaining worm gardens, and cultivating a large, expansive vegetable garden. These activities teach children about environmental responsibility and the importance of caring for our planet. #### Community engagement Our children and educators enjoy community walks and excursions to nearby parks in Pakenham, fostering a connection with our local area. We also regularly welcome special guests, such as librarians and emergency services, enriching the children's learning experiences. #### Music and movement Our evidence-based Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) program is designed to develop fundamental skills that help support children’s self-regulation, memory, and concentration. It is an innovative approach to holistic learning, development and well-being in early childhood. #### STEM We encourage your child to ask questions, experiment, and problem-solve, all while engaging their natural curiosity. By fostering this inquisitive mindset, we help them develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the world around them. ##### Book a tour to experience our centre today [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-pakenham) ## 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 Kindergarten ### Kindergarten 3 – 5 years Our Government-approved Kindergarten 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 [Free Kinder in Victoria](https://www.communitykids.com.au/family-information/funded-kindergarten-preschool/victoria) ## We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating At our Pakenham early learning centre, we have a dedicated chef who prepares nutritious meals for children. Our menus rotate every 4 weeks, offering a variety of nutritious options and changing with the seasons to incorporate fresh and wholesome ingredients. We serve breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late snack, all prepared fresh each day. We cater to all dietary requirements, including Halal and vegetarian, ensuring every child’s needs are met. ## 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 $163.65/day Toddler 2 - 4 years $163.65/day Kindergarten 4 - 5 years $163.65/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 Kindergarten/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 4.6(68 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### Andy Kaur As a dad, finding a childcare centre I can truly trust means everything and Community Kids Pakenham has been such a blessing for our family. From the very beginning, the management team Linda and Cassie along with my childs room teachers, they have.... **See more** As a dad, finding a childcare centre I can truly trust means everything and Community Kids Pakenham has been such a blessing for our family. From the very beginning, the management team Linda and Cassie along with my childs room teachers, they have been so warm, understanding, and genuinely supportive. They’ve always taken the time to listen, communicate clearly, and make both me and my children feel valued and cared for. My kids feel safe, happy, and excited to go each day, which gives me such peace of mind while I’m working full time. The educators go above and beyond, showing patience, kindness, and real passion for what they do. I’m so grateful to have found a place that not only cares for my children but also supports me as a parent. I highly recommend Community Kids Pakenham to any family looking for a nurturing and trustworthy childcare centre. ### Anushka Pillay Picking up my nephew for the first time this week,, I instantly felt welcomed by the warm and caring staff. The staff were so kind, attentive, and made me feel confident that he was in a safe and nurturing environment. Seeing how happy and.... **See more** Picking up my nephew for the first time this week,, I instantly felt welcomed by the warm and caring staff. The staff were so kind, attentive, and made me feel confident that he was in a safe and nurturing environment. Seeing how happy and comfortable he was spoke volumes about the love and care they give the children every day. Such a friendly and supportive childcare centre — highly recommend. Thank you again, its so lovely! ### Kelly Freeman Im sorry its taken me so long to do a google review, I have always been welcomed to community kids pakenham since the first day we started in toddler room in 2023. Its gone through many management team, but we have been really impressed with the.... **See more** Im sorry its taken me so long to do a google review, I have always been welcomed to community kids pakenham since the first day we started in toddler room in 2023. Its gone through many management team, but we have been really impressed with the recent management im the past 2 years. Always so welcoming and you are always interested in how we all are. Its like a family, but like all centres there is things you would like to see differently, but we have loved it here. My daughters favourite teacher was sweet kalpani. She really shows so much love towards the kids in the 3 year old kinder room and she has a great assistant FINALLY, best teachers. Thank you for all your support over the past year, Kalpani and Linda you are both so kind hearted, understanding and I actually felt listened too.thank you. Oh and the cakes for the families are amazing 🍰🧁☕️ every morning on the run, a delicious cake and coffee on the run. Always thinking of the families. ### Mariah Sonnet I had my son here and he absolutely loved it, the 4 year old kinder room is so engaging, always fun, calm and inviting. Lekan is so welcoming and informative, even the 3 year old kinder room has come along way from when we first started. Kalpani and.... **See more** I had my son here and he absolutely loved it, the 4 year old kinder room is so engaging, always fun, calm and inviting. Lekan is so welcoming and informative, even the 3 year old kinder room has come along way from when we first started. Kalpani and Sunil are always seen engaging in group time as we walk in, making the room calm for drop off's, thank you. I also want to say a big shout out to Linda the Acting Centre Manager for running the centre on her own the past 6 months, you are always so positive to the parents, teachers, and children. They really respect you, us as parents can see, and my son just adores you, we will miss coming here, as we leap in to school this year. But we will be sure to come back and visit. We are going to miss you all. Highly recommend this centre for kinder 100%. ### Anna Istratoaie I visited this centre for an incursion and was impressed. The children were beautiful - very engaged, polite, excited, and naturally musically inclined during the activities. The educators were also incredibly involved, kind, and considerate. The.... **See more** I visited this centre for an incursion and was impressed. The children were beautiful - very engaged, polite, excited, and naturally musically inclined during the activities. The educators were also incredibly involved, kind, and considerate. The centre has such a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere. I’m looking forward to visiting again soon ☺️ ### 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! - [Great Beginnings Pakenham 2.61km](https://www.greatbeginnings.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham) - [The Learning Sanctuary Pakenham 2.64km](https://www.thelearningsanctuary.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham) - [Creative Garden Early Learning Pakenham 5.38km](https://www.creativegarden.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham) ## 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-pakenham) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-pakenham)