What are the advantages of choosing homebased childcare for my child?

Homebased childcare offers a more intimate and personalised setting compared to daycare centers. The advantages of homebased childcare include individualised attention, smaller group sizes, a home-like environment, and flexibility.

What do I need to send with my child to homebased care?

Nappies and enough changes of clothing to cover accidents or messy play during the day. Remember to also bring warm clothing, coats, hats and gumboots during the cooler weather and sunhats for the warmer days so the children can still get out and about.

What are your hours of care?

Our normal hours of care are usually any length of time between 6.30 am and 7.30 pm Monday to Friday, however we are happy to discuss your requirements.

We provide care for a minimum of 12 hours per week. 

How many children are typically cared for in a homebased childcare setting?

A maximum of four children and never more than two under two.

What qualifications and experience do Kiddz homebased childcare providers have?

Each Educator is required to attend an induction course before children are placed in their care and are required to complete a Level 4 certificate in Homebased Childcare or other relevant early childhood training (unless already have an ECE qualification).

Is homebased childcare regulated and licensed?

Yes, homebased childcare is regulated in New Zealand to ensure safety and quality standards are met. The relevant legislation is Section 10 of the Education and Training Act 2020 which defines homebased ECE services as the provision of education or care, for gain or reward, to children who are under the age of 5 years, or who are aged 5 years but not enrolled at school, in: the children's own home; or the home of the person providing the education or care; or any other home nominated by a parent of the children.

Are there opportunities for socialisation with other children in homebased childcare?

Children participating in Kiddz homebased care meet weekly with other family groups at playgroup.

How are discipline and behavior management handled in homebased childcare?

Tamariki and their whānau will experience an environment where they're respected and valued and which supports their developing social competence. We respect that tamariki are developing the skill to become socially competent and our role is to support them and be role models on how to be in partnership with others. Our Social Competence Policy goes into more detail around this and we are happy to send you a copy to review on request. 

How are children's individual needs and interests addressed in a homebased setting?

At Kiddz we integrate all areas of the curriculum through short-term explorations and long-term inquiry. Children are viewed as leaders in their learning journey and are encouraged to work in collaboration with their peers to co-construct new ideas and theories. The role of our educators is to extend and deepen children’s ideas and theories. Through careful observation, watching and listening to our children, thoughtful questions and deep reflections evolve. Our educators work in partnership with our children to wonder, discover and contribute.

Are meals and snacks provided in homebased childcare?

We ask parents/whānau to provide the food their child will need and a water bottle for the time they are at the Educator’s.

What safety measures are in place to ensure the well-being of the children?

Each Kiddz homebased educator is required to:

•  Meet safety and suitability criteria
• Have a safe and child-friendly home environment
• Adhere to health and safety regulations
• Pass police vetting and safety checks for all members of the household aged 17 years and above.
• Have a current first aid certificate
• Hold a full driver’s license
• Provide a smoke free environment

What ages do you cover?

We are open to enrolments from everyone. We accept babies from six weeks and also may be able to arrange care for older siblings before and after school.

Can I use my childcare subsidy with Kiddz?

Your family may be eligible for a Work and Income (WINZ) Childcare Subsidy. This will be discussed during your initial interview. If your circumstances change or you wish to apply at a later stage we can send you the appropriate information and a form.

Can I visit the homebased childcare setting before making a decision?

Whenever possible KIDDZ endeavour to offer parents a range of Educators to choose from. We are available to support you and your child when visiting these Educators.

Choosing an Educator can be stressful and we suggest that you take plenty of time to talk to her/him to see how your child and she/he interact and discuss your aims and needs for the child. Working out the questions beforehand and making notes can be useful.

We encourage re-visits to make certain that this is the right place for your child. If the first selection we offer does not meet your needs we are happy to discuss further options with you. It is important to us that you and your child are happy with your placement.

Remember, it's important to ask any specific questions you may have and conduct thorough research when considering homebased childcare for your child.

How does payment and billing work in homebased childcare?

Independent contractors and educators set their own fees. Parents pay the educator directly. Any WINZ or ECE is paid to Kiddz and we pay it on to the educator. 

What is the policy regarding sick children in homebased childcare?

Kiddz Home Based Childcare requires parents to keep their child at home if they exhibit symptoms of illness, in order to protect the health and well-being of all children in the setting.

How is communication between the caregiver and parents maintained?

Communication between the caregiver and parents/whānau in homebased childcare is typically maintained through daily updates, text messages and emails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kiddz is a supportive, family orientated home based childcare provider who I would whole heartily recommend. Our daughter was welcomed into carers home and made to feel like part of their family. - Tracy