How do I find childcare or after-school activities?

For younger children, use the KHDA website to find early childhood centres by location and other criteria. Contact each centre to confirm available places, accepted ages, opening hours and fees.

Check whether you need childcare or an activity session. A swimming lesson, football club or art class may supervise children only during the session, leaving you responsible for transport and the time before and afterwards. Confirm exactly when the provider takes responsibility for your child and who may collect them.

Before booking, verify the provider’s licence and ask about staff qualifications, safeguarding, supervision, first aid and emergency procedures. Visit where possible and discuss allergies, medication or additional support needs. For home-based childcare, check the agency’s authorisation, caregiver credentials and references, and document the agreed duties and hours.

Compare the full cost, including registration, equipment, uniforms, transport, meals and late collection. Ask about trial sessions, missed classes, refunds and holiday closures before committing to a term.