Drop off & Pick-Up

A smooth and consistent drop-off and pick-up routine helps children feel secure and supports the daily flow of the centre. At Stepping Stones, we aim to make these moments calm, organised, and safe for both children and families. The following guidelines help ensure that every child’s arrival and departure from the centre is handled safely and efficiently.

Arrival at the Centre (Drop-Off)

Morning drop-off is an important transition from home to the learning environment. Our educators are there to help children settle comfortably into their day.

Parents or guardians must accompany their child inside the centre when arriving.
Each child must be signed in using the centre’s sign-in system or fob tag upon arrival.
Parents are encouraged to briefly communicate any important information about their child’s wellbeing, sleep, or mood to the educator.
Children should arrive with their required items for the day, including labelled bags, bottles, or personal belongings.
For the wellbeing of all children, parents should ensure their child is fit and well before attending the centre.

Settling Children During Drop-Off

Parents are encouraged to say goodbye clearly and confidently before leaving.
Avoid leaving without informing your child, as this may create confusion or distress.
If your child is experiencing separation anxiety, educators will help guide them into a comforting activity.
Parents may briefly assist their child in settling before leaving if necessary.
Educators will reassure children and redirect them into engaging activities once parents depart.

Daily Communication with Educators

Parents should inform educators of any important updates about their child (sleep patterns, illness, emotional changes, etc.).
Any medication or special instructions should be communicated directly to the centre coordinator or educator.
Parents are encouraged to use the Procare application for updates, messages, and daily information about their child.
If a child will be absent, parents should notify the centre as early as possible.

Pick-Up and Departure Procedures

End-of-day pick-up is another important transition for children.

Parents or authorised persons must sign the child out when collecting them from the centre.
Educators may briefly share updates about the child’s day during pick-up.
Children will only be released once an authorised adult has arrived and the sign-out process is completed.
Parents are encouraged to collect children calmly to support a smooth transition home.

Authorised Persons for Collection

To ensure children’s safety, strict procedures are followed when releasing children from the centre.

Only parents or individuals authorised on the child’s registration form may collect the child.
Parents must inform the centre in advance if someone else will be collecting their child.
Educators may request identification from any authorised person collecting the child.
Children will not be released to unauthorised individuals under any circumstances.

Late Pick-Up Procedures

We understand that unexpected situations can arise. However, timely pick-up helps ensure the wellbeing of children and staff.

Parents should notify the centre as soon as possible if they expect to be delayed.
A late collection fee may apply if children are collected after the centre’s closing time.
Educators will remain with the child until they are safely collected.
If a child remains uncollected and parents cannot be reached, the centre will follow the procedures outlined in our handbook to ensure the child’s safety.

Supporting a Smooth Daily Routine

Consistent routines help children feel safe and confident during their time at the centre.
Parents are encouraged to maintain consistent drop-off and pick-up times whenever possible.
A calm and positive approach during transitions helps children adjust more easily.
Children should arrive prepared with all necessary items for the day.
Parents are always welcome to speak with the centre coordinator if they have questions or concerns regarding routines.