Childcare Sunshine Coast
Complete Guide to Childcare on the Sunshine Coast: Finding the Perfect Early Learning Centre for Your Family
For Sunshine Coast parents, we know how important it is to find childcare that genuinely supports your child’s development while fitting seamlessly into your family’s routine. Finding the right Childcare on the Sunshine Coast can be life-changing—giving your child a nurturing start to early learning while allowing you to balance work, family, and lifestyle.
At Sanctuary Early Learning, we’ve supported hundreds of Sunshine Coast families through this decision. Parents receive a high-quality early learning environment that caters from infancy through to school age, all delivered by qualified educators who truly care.
What This Guide Covers
This guide is designed to give Sunshine Coast families clear, practical information about childcare options across the region. We cover long day care, early learning centres, and kindergarten programs, along with how to evaluate providers, understand fees and subsidies, and navigate the enrolment process.
You’ll also learn what to look for in centres located across key Sunshine Coast suburbs such as Buderim—helping you choose childcare that’s convenient, supportive, and aligned with your family’s values.
Who This Is For
This guide is written for Sunshine Coast parents—whether you’re returning to work, relocating to the area, or exploring early learning options for the first time. If you’re transitioning from family care, moving from interstate, or reassessing your current childcare arrangement, this resource will help you make informed, confident decisions about your child’s early education.
Why This Matters
Quality early learning is about far more than supervision. The right Sunshine Coast childcare centre creates a safe, nurturing environment where children build confidence, form friendships, and develop essential life skills through play-based learning.
At Sanctuary Early Learning, we see firsthand how strong early education foundations support school readiness, emotional wellbeing, and long-term success—while giving parents peace of mind and the freedom to thrive professionally.
What You’ll Learn
- The different types of childcare available across the Sunshine Coast
- How to assess education quality, facilities, and educator expertise
- The step-by-step enrolment process and required documentation
- Realistic childcare costs and how government subsidies make care more affordable
Understanding Childcare Options on the Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast early learning centres provide professional care and education for children from 6 weeks through to school entry. All approved childcare centres operate under Queensland regulations and follow the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), ensuring children receive consistent, high-quality education in a safe environment.
Living on the Sunshine Coast offers children a unique opportunity to learn and grow in a region known for its natural beauty, outdoor play opportunities, and family-friendly lifestyle—something we actively incorporate into our learning environments at Sanctuary Early Learning.
Long Day Care Centres
Long day care centres typically operate between 6:30am and 6:30pm, making them ideal for working families who need reliable, full-day care. These centres provide:
- Fresh, nutritious meals prepared daily
- Structured educational programs
- Care for babies, toddlers, and preschool-aged children
For Sunshine Coast parents, long day care offers consistency, flexibility, and peace of mind—knowing their child is supported throughout the day by qualified educators.
Kindergarten Programs
Approved kindergarten programs focus on school readiness for children aged 3–5 years and are delivered by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers. These programs support early literacy, numeracy, and social development while still embracing play-based learning.
At Sanctuary Early Learning, our kindergarten programs build on the foundations established in earlier years, helping children transition to primary school with confidence and independence.
What to Expect from Local Child Care
When choosing Childcare on the Sunshine Coast, families can expect warm, welcoming environments designed around children’s wellbeing. At Sanctuary Early Learning, our centre is purpose-built to support children from infancy to school age through safe, engaging, and inspiring learning spaces.
Our educators work closely with families to ensure every child feels secure, valued, and understood. By balancing structured learning with free play, we help children develop social skills, independence, creativity, and a genuine love of learning.
We invite Sunshine Coast families to explore our centre and experience how our approach supports confident, happy learners every day.
Choosing the Right Childcare Centre on the Sunshine Coast
Finding the right childcare means balancing practical considerations with educational quality and your child’s individual needs.
Location and Accessibility
Popular Sunshine Coast suburbs with quality childcare include Buderim, Sippy Downs, Peregian Springs, Aroona, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Mountain Creek, Nambour, Bokarina, and Currimundi.
When choosing a centre, consider proximity to home or work, easy parking, safe drop-off zones, and public transport access. At Sanctuary Early Learning, our location in Buderim is selected to make daily routines smoother for busy Sunshine Coast families.
Educational Philosophy and Programs
High-quality Sunshine Coast childcare centres focus on play-based learning supported by qualified educators. Programs are designed around each child’s interests and developmental stage, creating personalised learning journeys from infancy through to kindergarten.
Our educators at Sanctuary Early Learning plan engaging experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and confidence—while ensuring children feel happy, supported, and excited to learn.
Facilities and Environment
Modern childcare centres offer thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces that support physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
Key Points:
- Secure entry systems and strict safety standards
- Age-appropriate learning spaces for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers
- Environments that support active play, quiet learning, and exploration
Enroling Your Child in Sunshine Coast Childcare
Demand for quality Sunshine Coast childcare can be high, so early planning is essential.
Steps to Enrol
- Research and shortlist your preferred centres
- Book a tour to visit and meet the educators
- Submit enrolment applications and documentation
- Confirm placement and finalise details
Common Challenges and Solutions
Finding Available Places
- Join waiting lists early and remain flexible with start dates.
Managing Childcare Costs
- Apply for CCS early and compare session lengths and fee structures.
Transitioning Your Child
- Use orientation visits and maintain familiar routines while communicating openly with educators.
Making the Most of Child Care Services
At Sanctuary Early Learning, we see families as partners in their child’s education. By staying engaged, communicating openly, and participating in centre activities, parents help reinforce learning and development at home.
We provide fresh meals, flexible hours, transparent fees, and supportive programs—making quality childcare accessible and family-focused.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Choosing the right Childcare centre on the Sunshine Coast gives your child a strong foundation for lifelong learning while supporting your family’s lifestyle and career goals.
To get started:
- Contact Sanctuary Early Learning to book a tour
- Prepare enrolment documents and questions
- Discuss your child’s individual needs with our educators
Additional Resources
- Sunshine Coast Council Family Services Directory
- Child Care Subsidy Calculator (Services Australia)
Contact Sanctuary Early Learning to book a tour and experience our nurturing environment, passionate educators, and play-based early learning programs designed for Sunshine Coast families. We’d love to support your child’s early learning journey.
If you’d like to explore how Sanctuary Early Learning can support your family, we invite you to visit our Buderim centre and experience our nurturing approach firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Childcare FAQs for Sunshine Coast Families
How do I find the best childcare on the Sunshine Coast?
Families in Sunshine Coast often look for qualified educators, play-based learning, and strong safety standards, which Sanctuary Early Learning is known for across nearby areas such as Buderim.
What age can my child start childcare on the Sunshine Coast?
Most childcare centres in Sunshine Coast, including Sanctuary Early Learning, accept children from around six weeks through to school age with age-appropriate programs.
How much does childcare cost on the Sunshine Coast?
Childcare in Sunshine Coast typically costs $120-$180 per day before subsidy; many families pay $30-$75 after CCS, depending on age, days attended, and centre inclusions like meals and programs.
Is Sanctuary Early Learning a good childcare option on the Sunshine Coast?
Yes, Sanctuary Early Learning is a trusted childcare provider for families in Sunshine Coast, offering nurturing environments, experienced educators, and strong school readiness programs.
What programs does Sanctuary Early Learning offer on the Sunshine Coast?
Sanctuary Early Learning in Sunshine Coast follows the Early Years Learning Framework, delivering play-based early learning programs tailored to each child's development.
How does Sanctuary Early Learning prepare children for school on the Sunshine Coast?
Children at Sanctuary Early Learning in Sunshine Coast benefit from structured school readiness programs that build confidence, independence, and early literacy and numeracy skills.
Are educators at Sanctuary Early Learning qualified on the Sunshine Coast?
All educators at Sanctuary Early Learning working with Sunshine Coast families hold or are working towards nationally recognised early childhood education qualifications.
What are childcare hours like on the Sunshine Coast?
Childcare centres servicing Sunshine Coast families typically operate long day care hours, making it easier for working parents to balance work and family life.
How do I enrol my child at Sanctuary Early Learning on the Sunshine Coast?
To enrol your child at Sanctuary Early Learning in Sunshine Coast, families can book a tour, submit an application, and secure a place subject to availability.
Is the Child Care Subsidy available for families on the Sunshine Coast?
Eligible families in Sunshine Coast can access the Child Care Subsidy, which significantly reduces out-of-pocket childcare costs based on income and activity levels.
