The Pre-Toddler program at Treehouse Early Learning Centre in Hillcrest, SA is for children aged 2 to 2.5 years. Through play-based learning, nature-based play, and child-led exploration, children in this room develop language, physical coordination, early social skills, and growing independence, supported by consistent, experienced educators.
Two years old is an extraordinary age. Your child has opinions, preferences, and a will of their own. They are experimenting with language, testing boundaries, and discovering what they can do when given the space and the materials to try.
The Pre-Toddler room at Treehouse is designed to meet that energy. The environment is arranged as a series of invitations: materials and spaces that call out to a curious two-year-old and say 'come and see what you can discover here.' Educators are close by, but they follow the child's lead rather than directing it.
The program is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework and Treehouse's own service philosophy: children are seen as capable, curious learners whose ideas and interests deserve to be taken seriously and extended. That belief shapes everything in this room, from how the furniture is arranged to how educators respond when a child says no.
Program Details
What does a day in the Pre-Toddler Room look like?
The Pre-Toddler room operates on a responsive daily rhythm: consistent enough that children feel safe, flexible enough that educators can follow the energy and interests of the group. Each day includes group time, outdoor play, creative experiences, meals, and rest.
Educators plan responsively. They observe what children are drawn to, what questions they are asking, and what skills they are working on, then design the environment and experiences to extend those interests. Nothing in the Pre-Toddler room happens by accident.
Language is at the centre of everything. At two, children are often understanding far more than they can say. Educators use rich, descriptive language throughout the day, creating genuine conversations even when children are still developing their words.
The Xplor Home app keeps you connected. You will see what your child explored, hear about the words they used, and receive photos and observations throughout the day.
A Day at a Glance:
8:00am: The Pre-Toddler room is already set up with play invitations when the first children arrive. A tray of shells and magnifying glasses. Playdough with tools. Blocks and ramps. Every child chooses their own starting point.
9:00am: Morning group time. A song, a movement activity, and a simple provocation from the educator. Something to touch, something to look at, something to talk about.
10:00am: Outdoor time. The sandpit, the climbing structure, the garden area. Two-year-olds are physical learners. The outdoor space is as important as the indoor room.
12:00pm: Lunch. Centre-provided and nutritious. Children are supported to feed themselves and make choices. Mealtimes are social and unhurried.
Afternoon: Rest for those who need it, then more play, art, and outdoor exploration. Pick-up includes a genuine debrief: what your child explored, tried, and discovered today.
Program Structure
How is the Pre-Toddler program structured at Treehouse?
The program is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and Treehouse's own play-based, child-led philosophy. Planning is responsive: educators observe, document, and design experiences based on each child's current interests and developmental goals.
Daily Rhythm:
Arrival and Self-Directed Play:
Room set with play invitations. Children choose their starting activity. Warm greeting from consistent educators.
Morning Group Time:
Songs, movement, simple provocation. 10 to 15 minutes of shared experience to start the learning day.
Outdoor Exploration:
Daily outdoor time in the playgrounds and sandpits. Physical and sensory learning in a natural environment.
Morning Tea and Lunch:
Centre-provided nutritious meals. Social, unhurried mealtimes supporting independence and communication.
Rest Time:
Sleep or quiet rest based on individual needs. Consistent with home routine where possible.
Afternoon Program:
Art, sensory play, outdoor time, and educator-led experiences responding to children's current interests.
End of Day:
Educator debrief at pickup. Specific observations and moments shared with families.
Enrolment Requirements
What do I need to enrol my child in the Pre-Toddler program?
Enrolment at Treehouse is straightforward. The team is here to guide you through every step.
Age:
Your child must be approximately 2 years at the time of entering the Pre-Toddler room. Transition from Waddlers is based on developmental readiness.
Immunisation:
Current immunisation records required as per National Quality Framework guidelines.
Enrolment Form:
Complete the online enrolment form at treehouse-childcare.com.au.
Orientation Visit:
A pre-start orientation visit is arranged for all new families.
What to Bring:
The centre provides nappies, meals, drinks, and sunscreen. Bring labelled spare clothes, a hat, and any comfort items.
Transition from Infants:
Educators coordinate a supported transition to the Pre-Toddler room with you and your child.
Child Care Subsidy:
Apply via MyGov or contact Centrelink on 13 61 50.
Notice Period:
Four weeks written notice required for any changes to or cancellation of enrolment.