--- title: "Childcare Pakenham" url: https://www.creativegarden.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Creative Garden Pakenham. Enquire today." type: page date: 2024-09-27 modified: 2026-07-23 --- # Childcare Pakenham ## Creative Garden Early Learning Pakenham Places available [7 Village Way Pakenham VIC 3810](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=7+Village+Way+Pakenham+VIC+3810) [1800 517 075](tel:1800%20517%20075) [pakenham@creativegarden.com.au](mailto:pakenham@creativegarden.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $174.00 Toddler $174.00 Kindergarten $174.00 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) [4.5 /5 42 reviews](.g8-google-reviews) ## Enrolment availability The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre. - Monday - Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday - Friday Green – Places available now Orange – Limited availability   Availability can change quickly. For the most up-to-date information and advice, please contact our Family Support Team. [Book a tour](https://www.creativegarden.com.au/book-a-tour?centre=creative-garden-early-learning-pakenham) [Enquire now](https://www.creativegarden.com.au/enquire-now/?centre=creative-garden-early-learning-pakenham) ## Childcare and kindergarten in Pakenham, VIC Creative Garden Pakenham offers long day care and a kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Pakenham, Officer, Beaconsfield, Officer South and Clyde North in Melbourne. #### Spacious outdoor environments Children have space to learn and explore outdoors, with a bike track, climbing fort and vegetable garden. These areas give children room to ride, climb, garden, move their bodies and enjoy active play throughout the day. #### Purpose-built indoor spaces Indoors, children learn in purpose-built spaces with interactive and natural resources. The rooms give children opportunities to explore ideas, take part in play-based learning and build skills through everyday experiences. #### Highly trained educator team Our highly trained educators are carefully selected for their knowledge, care and approach to early childhood education. They build strong relationships with children and families, helping each child feel known, settled and ready to learn. #### Individual Learning Plans Individual Learning Plans are developed in partnership with families, reflecting each child’s strengths, interests and developmental goals. Educators use these plans to shape learning experiences around each child’s needs. #### Government-approved Kindergarten program Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher and helps children prepare for school. Children build confidence through play-based learning, routines, friendships and growing independence. #### Community excursions and visitors Children regularly head out on community excursions to nearby locations and welcome special guests into the centre. Visitors such as librarians, emergency services and dancers bring new people, stories and experiences into the program. #### Sports and cultural programs As part of the daily fee, children can take part in extracurricular activities, including a sports program and a cultural program. These experiences add movement, group participation, creativity and cultural learning to the week. #### Healthy meals and daily app updates Meals and snacks are provided throughout the day, with menus planned for variety, balance and children’s daily needs. Allergies and individual dietary requirements are catered for. Families can also follow along through our family app, with photos and updates from the centre. ## Secure your place today Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=creative-garden-early-learning-pakenham) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=creative-garden-early-learning-pakenham) ## Meet our Centre Manager Tanya ### - * Diploma of Children's Services “I strive to create an environment that nurtures children’s sense of wonder, providing opportunities for them to explore and discover their world in a safe and secure way.” I have been working in the early childhood industry for over two decades. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience across various childhood services, equipping me with the knowledge and skills to guide and mentor my team of passionate educators. This experience has also deepened my understanding of the community's needs and the children I have the privilege to educate and care for. Children are unique, capable, resilient, and possess a natural sense of wonder and curiosity, which they love to share with their caregivers and teachers. I strive to create an environment that nurtures this sense of wonder, providing opportunities for children to explore and discover their world in a safe and secure way. I believe it takes a village to raise a child, and we are proud to be part of that village. We are here to help and support you and your child on their early childhood journey. This drives us to build strong relationships with you, your child, your family, and the community. I am fortunate to lead a passionate team of educators at Creative Garden Pakenham who are dedicated to providing high-quality care and education for your child and enjoy getting to know both you and your child. From the moment you book a tour with us through to enrolment and your child's first day, we aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. We maintain an open-door policy and highly value your input and feedback, as this helps us form collaborative relationships and create a supportive environment for all children, families, and educators. We look forward to welcoming you to our Pakenham early education centre. Read moreless ## Our innovative early learning programs #### Sustainability Children develop respect for the environment through gardening, recycling and nature-based learning. Educators also introduce the interconnected aspects of sustainability, including environmental, social and economic, through concepts like fairness, sharing and community. #### Social and emotional learning Children develop a strong sense of identity as they feel safe, secure and supported, building confidence, resilience and a positive sense of self. Through group activities, conversations and play, children learn to interact with others with care, empathy and respect, building positive relationships and friendships. #### STEM Educators introduce open-ended materials and invitations to explore, such as building, measuring and experimenting. Through shared conversations and investigation, children develop curiosity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. #### Music and movement Our evidence-based Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) program is designed to develop fundamental skills that help support children’s self-regulation, memory, and concentration. It is an innovative approach to holistic learning, development and well-being in early childhood. ## Age-appropriate early learning ### 0-2 years Nursery ### Nursery 0-2 years In our nursery environment, educators focus on building strong, secure and respectful relationships so babies feel safe, settled and supported as they explore the world around them. Children in our nursery room are supported through: - Responsive care and nurturing relationships that support emotional security and attachment - Sensory exploration through textures, sounds, music and movement - Early communication through songs, stories, gestures and conversations - Tummy time and movement experiences that support physical development - Calm, predictable routines that help babies feel safe and confident - Age-appropriate play materials that encourage curiosity and discovery Educators work closely with families to support each baby’s routines, comfort and developmental needs. [Our nursery rooms](/childcare-and-early-education/nursery) ### 2-3 years Toddlers ### Toddlers 2-3 years Our toddler program encourages curiosity, independence and early social skills as children explore the world with growing confidence. Children in our toddler room are supported through: - Play-based learning that encourages curiosity and problem-solving - Storytelling, songs and conversations that support language development - Creative exploration through art, music, dramatic play and movement - Self-help skills and routines that build independence - Social learning that supports sharing, cooperation and empathy - Outdoor exploration that builds coordination, strength and confidence Educators support toddlers to express their ideas, make choices and develop confidence in their abilities. [Our toddler rooms](/childcare-and-early-education/toddlers) ### 3-5 years Kindergarten ### Kindergarten 3-5 years Our Kindergarten program prepares children for school through engaging, play-based learning experiences that build confidence, independence and a love of learning. Children in our Kindergarten program are supported through: - School readiness learning that builds early literacy and numeracy skills - Problem-solving and critical thinking through play-based projects and exploration - Collaboration and teamwork through group learning experiences - Creative expression through art, music, storytelling and dramatic play - Outdoor learning that supports confidence, resilience and wellbeing - Independence, responsibility and decision-making skills Our Government-approved Kindergarten program helps children develop the skills they need for a successful transition to school. [Free Kinder in Victoria](https://www.creativegarden.com.au/family-information/funded-kindergarten-preschool/victoria) ## We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating Thanks to the in-house chef at our Pakenham child care centre, your child can expect healthy, nutritious, and yummy meals. We offer a rotating seasonal menu, providing breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late snack freshly made daily. We cater to all dietary requirements. ## What a typical day looks like for your child ### Arrival at the centre Your child will be welcomed by our team of educators, who will ensure the morning transition from home to centre goes as smoothly as possible. On arrival, share information about your child’s specific needs for the day.   Next: Mealtimes ### Mealtimes Our centre chefs prepare a nutritious menu for your child to sit down and eat. This is a great time for everyone to share stories from the day. Educators model healthy eating practices, social behaviours and support children’s growing independence with mealtime routines. Previous: Arrival at the centre Next: Infant care ### Infant care If you have an infant, we spend one-on-one time with them to establish a connection. Educators talk gently and respond to babies’ cues. We use songs, games, and conversations to strengthen relationships and build language skills. Previous: Mealtimes Next: Play-based learning ### Play-based learning Your child is naturally curious. They want to learn and explore, which is why we teach through play-based learning. It supports language, motor skills, memory, emotions and social relationships. Educators plan play-based learning experiences based on children’s interests and goals. Previous: Infant care Next: Sleep, rest and relaxation ### Sleep, rest and relaxation We match routines to your child’s individual needs. Opportunities for rest and relaxation help make them feel safe. Play-based learning experiences are provided for older children who no longer don’t sleep in centre. Previous: Play-based learning Next: Heading home ### Heading home As your child prepares to head home, this is your opportunity to speak with our friendly educators about your child’s day and everything they learnt. We look forward to welcoming you back tomorrow. Previous: Sleep, rest and relaxation   ## Fees The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your daily out-of-pocket fee by up to 95% depending on your family’s entitlements. Nursery 0 - 2 years $174.00/day Toddler 2 - 4 years $174.00/day Kindergarten 4 - 5 years $174.00/day Step 1: Family Information & Financial State ### Child Care Subsidy Estimator Discover how much child care subsidy you may be entitled to by entering the fields below. #### 2026 3-Day Guarantee From 5th January 2026, based on the information you have entered, here's an estimate of your CCS entitlements and your out-of-pocket costs. Total Fees $0.00 Estimated CCS Fee Subsidy $0.00 Kindergarten/Preschool Subsidy $0.00 Out of Pocket Cost (what you pay) $0.00 ##### Matrix Out of Pocket Cost Is your CCS working for you? Check the out-of-pocket cost matrix per child against session lengths and weekly days below. Please note: The table in the matrix only shows out-of-pocket costs after CCS (Child Care Subsidy). Child 1 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days 4 Days 5 Days *Kindergarten/preschool subsidy applied: **$0.00** *This estimator provides an estimate only and is based on the following assumptions: - Accuracy and currency of family income information entered. - Family CCS entitlements include 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight. Please note your family may be entitled to less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight – if you are unsure we recommend you use the comprehensive CCS estimator in the link below. - Where 1-4 days of care is selected, full day sessions apply (being full operational hours of the centre, which can vary between centres). - Where 5 days of care is selected, 10-hour per day sessions apply (ie, 50 hours p/w to optimise 100 hours of CCS subsidised care across the fortnight). - Where a family’s CCS entitlements include less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, please use the comprehensive CCS calculator as a guide. - NSW Preschool Fee Relief is effective from 1st January 2026.   Kindergarten/preschool subsidy is subject to State Government specific requirements including child age eligibility criteria and the delivery of the funded program by an Early Childhood Teacher on the day the subsidy is claimed by the family. Calculations herein are based on the assumption all eligibility criteria is met. Please contact your centre for detailed information. Read more Book a tour ### Send your results by email Enter your email address and we’ll send you a copy of your calculation results. ## What our families say 4.5(42 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### nidhi agarwal We are incredibly thankful for the wonderful care and support our child has received at Creative Garden Early Learning Pakenham. From the very beginning, the educators made us feel welcomed, supported, and confident that our little daughter in.... **See more** We are incredibly thankful for the wonderful care and support our child has received at Creative Garden Early Learning Pakenham. From the very beginning, the educators made us feel welcomed, supported, and confident that our little daughter in Nursery 1 is in safe hands. A special thank you to Savita and team for their kindness, patience, and genuine care. Their dedication and warm nature have made such a positive impact on our child’s early learning journey. It is clear they truly care about every child and always go above and beyond to create a safe, happy, and nurturing environment. We have seen amazing growth in our daughter's confidence, learning, and social skills since joining the centre. The regular updates and photos throughout the day also give us great peace of mind and help us feel connected to our child’s experiences. We truly appreciate the passion and hard work of the entire team supporting our daughter each day. We highly recommend Creative Garden Early Learning Pakenham to any family looking for a caring and supportive childcare centre. ### Kylee B I recently enrolled my 4 year old into the kindergarten and was impressed from the start. From the management team who showed me around the service and explained in depth the allergy process and how the service approaches allergy management to the.... **See more** I recently enrolled my 4 year old into the kindergarten and was impressed from the start. From the management team who showed me around the service and explained in depth the allergy process and how the service approaches allergy management to the cleanliness of the room. The service did not disappoint. The educators in the room welcomed my child on the first day and were quick to set up her learning and development on the online portals I can’t wait to see how the rest of the kinder year pans out. Anyone looking for that right centre with a caring nature this is the one to go to. ### shashika rathnasinghe We couldn’t be more grateful for the love, care, and dedication our baby Asher has received in Nursery 1 at Creative Gardens Peckham. As Asher transitions from Nursery 1 to the Toddler room, it feels important to pause and truly acknowledge the.... **See more** We couldn’t be more grateful for the love, care, and dedication our baby Asher has received in Nursery 1 at Creative Gardens Peckham. As Asher transitions from Nursery 1 to the Toddler room, it feels important to pause and truly acknowledge the incredible work done by Savitha and Jolene. From day one, they have created a space that feels safe, nurturing, and full of warmth. Their patience, kindness, and genuine passion for what they do shines through in every interaction. Knowing that Asher was cared for by educators who treat the children with so much love and respect gave us complete peace of mind. Savitha and Jolene don’t just look after children, they build trust, confidence, and comfort, and that makes all the difference for both the children and the parents. We are deeply thankful for the beautiful foundation they’ve helped create for Asher and will always remember the care they poured into these early days. We would also like to kindly ask the management team at Creative Gardens Pakenham to please pass on this message to them. Educators like Savitha and Jolene are truly valued, and parents hold them in the highest regard. We are more than grateful for the passion, warmth, and dedication they bring every single day Ward regards Shash and trish ### Jaipal singh Sandhu I’m incredibly grateful for the outstanding care and attention you provide. It’s clear that my child feels safe, happy, and well-loved in your care. The nurturing environment, thoughtful activities, and consistent communication have made such a.... **See more** I’m incredibly grateful for the outstanding care and attention you provide. It’s clear that my child feels safe, happy, and well-loved in your care. The nurturing environment, thoughtful activities, and consistent communication have made such a difference in their development and confidence. Thank you for creating a space where learning and kindness go hand-in-hand. The daily updates and photos give me so much peace of mind, and it’s wonderful to see how engaged and happy my child is.” •You’ve created such a warm, structured, and supportive environment thank you for all the love and effort you put into each day. •We’ve noticed such amazing growth in our child socially, emotionally, and intellectually and we know it’s thanks to your care and guidance.” •“Thank you for treating my child as an individual and really taking the time to understand their needs and personality.” ### Sally Siro We recently transferred our son to Creative Gardens Pakenham, and it’s been the best decision we’ve made for his growth and development. He has delayed speech and some behavioral challenges, and we weren’t getting the support he needed at his.... **See more** We recently transferred our son to Creative Gardens Pakenham, and it’s been the best decision we’ve made for his growth and development. He has delayed speech and some behavioral challenges, and we weren’t getting the support he needed at his previous centre. From day one, the team at Creative Gardens has been incredibly supportive and welcoming. Nikki and Saumya, the lead educators, made the transition so smooth our son settled in faster and better than we ever expected. Within just a week, his speech had noticeably improved, and he started using more words. The Centre Managers, Tanya and Goldy, went above and beyond to put support measures in place for his development, without us even having to ask. Their initiative and care really stood out. What I truly appreciate is how this centre sees and supports each child as an individual. They don’t let any child get lost in the crowd they nurture them to shine in their own unique way. If you’re looking for a centre that genuinely puts children and families at the heart of everything they do, I can’t recommend Creative Gardens Pakenham highly enough. We're so grateful to have found them. ### Source: Google Business Profile G8 Education does not control or endorse the content of individual reviews. We encourage families to contact the centre directly for the most up-to-date information. ## Explore nearby G8 Education centres Looking for other great childcare, kindergarten or preschool options? Discover more G8 Education centres near you! - [Greenwood Officer 1.04km](https://www.greenwood.com.au/our-centres/childcare-officer) - [Great Beginnings Pakenham 3.16km](https://www.greatbeginnings.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham) - [The Learning Sanctuary Pakenham 3.19km](https://www.thelearningsanctuary.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pakenham) ## Frequently asked questions ## A centre tour is a convenient way to experience the childcare centre of your choice and meet with our qualified educators at a time that is suitable for your family’s schedule. [Click here to book a tour online.](/book-a-tour) On the day of the tour, you can observe practices and interactions within the centre environment. You’ll be able to see all the rooms and playgrounds, ask the team members any questions you have in mind, and get all the information you need to make the best decision for your child. ## Enrolling is simple, and our Family Support Team will guide you through each step. First, find your local centre and book a tour so you can meet the team and explore the learning environment. If the centre is the right fit and a place is available, you’ll receive an enrolment offer for your child. If a place is not currently available in your child’s age group, we can add your child to the waitlist and keep you updated. To finalise your enrolment, you’ll complete an online enrolment form through a secure link sent by our Family Support Team. You’ll also need to provide key details and documents, including your child’s birth certificate, Medicare details, immunisation history statement and, if eligible, your Child Care Subsidy details. Before your child’s first day, you may be invited to attend a Stay and Play session. This gives your child time to explore the centre, meet their educators, and start feeling comfortable in their new environment. Once your paperwork is complete, your child is ready to start their early learning journey with us. [Read our step-by-step guide on how to enrol here.](/family-information/how-to-enrol) ## Starting child care is a big milestone, and a little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and confident. Before your child’s first day, you can talk positively about their new centre, explain what their day might look like, and practise small routines such as packing their bag, saying goodbye, washing hands and sitting down for meals. You may also like to visit the centre with your child, meet their educators and ask our team about what to bring on the first day. When your child starts, our educators will take the time to get to know your child’s routine, interests, comfort items and individual needs. Settling in looks different for every child, so we work closely with families to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn. [Learn more about our Settling-in Program.](/family-information/settling-in-program) ## Most of our child care and early education centres offer nappies and wipes, sunscreen and hats, as well as nutritious meals prepared by our in-house cook. Some centres also provide sheets and formula, so you may not need to remember to pack them. For nursery children, be sure to bring: nappy rash cream, dummies, bottles and teats, comfort toys or blankets, three spare outfits, spare socks and a plastic bag for wet clothes. For toddlers and preschool or kindergarten-aged children, it’s best to bring: spare underwear, water bottle or sippy cup, sun hat, closed-toe shoes, two spare outfits, spare socks and a plastic bag for wet clothes. Plus, anything else your individual child may need, such as breast milk, a sleeping bag, a comforter or medication. It’s best to speak to your centre of choice for a full list of everything included. ## Creative Garden uses Xplor Home as our [family communication app](/family-information/family-communication). It is the best and easiest way to keep track of your child’s day. After you enrol your child with the centre, you can utilise Xplor Home to book child care days, manage your account, receive the photographs that capture your child’s learning, learn about your child’s progress, as well as keep up-to-date with upcoming centre events and important information. ## If your child shows signs of an infectious illness when they arrive at the centre or becomes sick during the day, you may be notified that you need to make alternative arrangements or pick up your child from the centre and keep them home until they are no longer infectious. While we understand that this can be inconvenient, Creative Garden is committed to maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of infection for all children. Under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families are allowed 42 absence days per child, per financial year. These can be taken for any reason, including public holidays and when children are sick, without requiring families to provide documentation. ## Contact us We look forward to welcoming your family. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=creative-garden-early-learning-pakenham) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=creative-garden-early-learning-pakenham)