Dandelion Childcare and Early Learning Centre

Over 25 years of experience and are all extremely passionate about a quality learning environment and practices.

Our team are highly qualified and are committed and ensure they have ample opportunities to grow in the sector embracing the Professional Development the service offers on a regular basis.

Our Service has a dedicated Educational Leader to oversee the children’s curriculum and practices providing ongoing support for all families.

Dandelion childcare and early learning centre

At Dandelion ELC, we believe that every child has the right to a high-quality education and should grow in a safe and responsive care environment that supports self-esteem, fosters a sense of agency, and encourages responsibility.

Inspired by Reggio Emilia's philosophy, we view children as creative, competent, and natural explorers. We are dedicated to supporting children in developing a lifelong love for learning through positive interaction and empowerment, providing ample time and inspiring learning spaces for them to explore and discover their full potential.

Our program is based on a play-based approach, where children's current knowledge, ideas, culture, abilities, and interests form the foundation. This approach allows for holistic development and encompasses various areas such as communication, numeracy, literacy, art, science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), environmental sustainability, and social and emotional well-being.

We recognize the importance of promoting mental health and well-being and fostering a sense of inclusion for all children, families, and staff. To achieve this, we strive to establish a child-safe and inclusive environment that enhances a sense of connection and belonging. We also embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in our program to promote understanding and respect for cultural diversity among all children.

We acknowledge that children learn within their families and the wider community, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and identities. We encourage collaborative partnerships with families, ensuring a constant exchange of information and involvement in our inclusive programs.

Furthermore, we value the strengths, skills, and professional experiences that our educators and the community of learners bring to our service. Our team of educators consistently evaluates and reflects on teaching strategies and practices, continuously seeking ways to enhance their knowledge and support the optimal learning of the children in our care.

Our in-house Cook provides a nutritionally balanced menu prepared on our premises each day.

Dandelion ELC offers Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Late snack. At Dandelion ELC we believe it is important to ensure that parents and Educators work closely together to ensure all children’s dietary requirements are met and up to date such as intolerances, allergies and anaphylaxis and treat this with the utmost caution. We do not allow any food to be brought into the centre for this very reason, and will work closely with you to ensure that your child’s dietary needs are looked after carefully and respectfully.

Our approach to creating healthy, nutritious meals for our children is guided by the following resources:

• The Victorian Food Act 1984 (the Act)
• Healthy Eating in The National Quality Standards – Nutrition Australia
• The Healthy Early Childhood Services Achievement Program