The Toddler program at Treehouse Early Learning Centre in Hillcrest, SA is for children aged 2.5 to 3 years. Through play-based learning, nature-based play, and child-led exploration guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, toddlers develop language, physical coordination, social skills, and independence in an environment with access to two large outdoor playgrounds and three sandpits.
Between 2.5 and 3, children are forming a real sense of who they are. They are building friendships, negotiating with peers, developing a vocabulary that astonishes parents, and asserting strong views about everything from which cup they want to which shoe goes on first.
At Treehouse, we do not try to iron any of that out. We work with it. Our educators understand toddler development deeply, and they meet children exactly where they are: curious, energetic, occasionally frustrated, and completely capable of more than most adults expect.
The Toddler room is designed for movement and discovery. Children move freely between indoor and outdoor spaces, choosing their own activities within an environment that has been intentionally arranged to provoke curiosity. The two large playgrounds and three sandpits are not just recreation; they are core learning spaces.
Program Details
What does a day in the Toddler Room look like?
The Toddler room at Treehouse begins each morning with the room already alive with possibility. Play invitations are set up before the first child arrives. Children enter and immediately have a choice. That choice is intentional.
Group time happens each morning: songs, movement, and a short provocation from an educator. Whatever it is, it is designed to generate genuine conversation and extend children's thinking.
Outdoor time is a core part of every day, not a reward or a break. Your toddler will spend significant time in the playgrounds and sandpits each day. The centre provides sunscreen and hats.
Meals are provided by the centre: nutritious, balanced, and shared socially. Toilet training is supported in full partnership with families: your child's pace, your preferences, consistent communication between home and the centre.
A Day at a Glance:
6:30am: Treehouse opens. Early arrivals are welcomed into the Toddler room, which is already set up with invitations to play: playdough at one table, a light tray at another, blocks on the mat.
9:00am: Morning group time. Songs, movement, and a short educator-led provocation. Today it is a collection of leaves gathered from the playground. The children examine them, compare them, and an educator captures the observations.
10:00am: Outdoor time. The sandpit is the clear winner today. Three children are working on an elaborate system of tunnels. An educator is nearby, asking questions and marvelling alongside them.
12:00pm: Lunch. The centre provides a nutritious meal. Children sit together, conversation flows, and educators support independence: pouring their own water, choosing their own portion.
Afternoon: Rest for those who need it, then art, stories, and more outdoor time. By pick-up, your child has had a full, joyful day, and their educator has something specific to tell you about it.
Program Structure
How is the Toddlers 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:
Morning Arrival:
Room set with play invitations. Children arrive and engage with their choice of activity.
Morning Group Time:
Songs, movement, and a short educator-led provocation. 10 to 15 minutes.
Outdoor Play:
Extended outdoor time in the playgrounds and sandpits. Physical development, social play, nature exploration.
Morning Tea and Lunch:
Nutritious centre-provided meals. Social mealtime with educators. Independence supported.
Rest and Quiet Time:
Rest for children who need it. Quiet activities for those who do not.
Afternoon Exploration:
Art, construction, dramatic play, and outdoor time. Educator-led small group experiences.
End of Day:
Tidy-up routine. Educator debrief at pickup. Xplor app summary.
Enrolment Requirements
What do I need to enrol my child in the Toddlers program?
Enrolment at Treehouse is straightforward. The team is here to guide you through every step.
Age:
Your child must be approximately 2.5 years at the time of entering the Toddler room. Transition from Pre-Toddler is based on developmental readiness.
Immunisation:
Current immunisation records required.
Enrolment Form:
Complete the online form at treehouse-childcare.com.au.
Orientation Visit:
All new families receive an orientation visit before their child's first day.
What to Bring:
Nappies, meals, drinks, and sunscreen provided. Bring spare clothes, a hat, and any comfort items.
Toilet Training:
If your toddler is in the process of toilet training, inform your educator and we will support the process consistently between centre and home.
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.