Family Day Care provides an alternative to centre based care by placing the child in the home of a carer. Family Day Care is administered by the Department of Community Services (DOCS). And conducted through state Family Day Care Associations.

The first step in sourcing Family Day Care is to attend an interview. Before your interview with the scheme, try to have an idea of what type of carer you'd like for your little person. Be sure to sight any references of who will be caring for your little person and m ake a list of questions/concerns so you can discuss them at your next interview with the carer. Remember, effective communication between parent, child and carer at all times is vital.

Following are some questions you can ask to see if Family Day Care is right for your children.

• Are there animals at the home?
• Will there be other people in the house when your little person is in care?
• Hours of care - flexibility.
• Is there outings e.g. playgroup, shopping, visiting the library?
• What does the parent provide for the child's day/week?
• Fees -when to pay, how? Cash? Cheque?
• How many other children in carers home?
• Does the carer hold child care qualifications?
• Would they be able to have siblings after school, school holidays, pupil free days?
• Does the carer work over Christmas?
• How many weeks holidays does the carer have?
• Is there air conditioning?
• Open door policy can you call in any time? 
• Is there an orientation process for new children & parents?
• Are the children happy and friendly? 
• Does the carer interact with the children in a positive manner?
• Look long term into day care, try to anticipate your future needs
• How long has the carer been working for FDC?
• Are cultural differences recognised and respected?
• Communication breakdowns -with whom do you discuss this issue?
• Are there any planned daily activities for the children based on their developmental levels?
• Are the daily programme and developmental records accessible to parents at any time?
• Will your child's individual needs be met?
• Are the services policies available to you? E.g. hygiene, behaviour management.
• What are the procedures for the handling of dummies, bottles, formula and breast milk?
• Do the routines (e.g. nappy change, toileting, rest time) meet the individual children's needs?
• Where do the children sleep and on what?
• Do they pat the children at rest time if unsettled?
• How are separation difficulties handled?
• Is the outside environment shady, safe and challenging?
• How are special diet needs met?
• What happens if children will not eat?
• Is the child allowed to take a security toy or blanket?
• What is the carers procedure in administering medication?
• If my child spikes a temperature what is their procedure?
• If my child has an accident what procedure do they follow?

Contact Details

Home Based Care Central Office 02 97162222 

Family Day Care Association of NSW  02 95522398