EDUCATE ME

with Tiffany Shipard Bassett

For many parents, access to highquality childcare is a top priority, ensuring their children get the best possible start in life while balancing work and family responsibilities. Historically, North Richmond has faced challenges in providing sufficient childcare options, leaving families with limited choices. However, the landscape has changed significantly in recent years, thanks to dedicated early learning providers such as Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten.

Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten has made a substantial impact on the North Richmond community by opening three new centres in quick succession, addressing the growing demand for early learning services. The first centre was established in Redbank, followed by a second on Elizabeth Street, and most recently, a third on Riverview Street. Together, these centres offer nearly 300 childcare places, dramatically improving accessibility for local families.

“ Our aim was to bring quality childcare to North Richmond, with highly qualified educators who are nurturing, caring, and passionate about education— and our team has proudly achieved that,” says John Sarkis, owner of the Caring 4 Kids group.“ We not only provide

OPEN MONDAY- FRIDAY 7am- 6pm excellent care for children so parents can feel confident, but we also offer additional support through our in-house wellness facilitator, Tiffany Shipard Bassett, who holds a Master of Counselling.”

This holistic approach to early childhood education goes beyond traditional care and learning. Recognising the importance of early intervention and emotional wellbeing, Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten has embedded a wellness-focused initiative into its centres. The presence of a dedicated counselling professional provides invaluable support, helping children navigate emotional and social challenges, while also offering guidance to parents and staff. Research consistently underscores the importance of early intervention in supporting a child’ s development. Adverse Childhood Experiences( ACEs) can have long-lasting impacts on emotional, cognitive, and social wellbeing, making trauma-informed approaches essential in early learning environments. By ensuring that educators and families have access to professional support, Caring 4 Kids is fostering a resilient and nurturing community.

In addition to delivering exceptional care, the centres also prioritise educator wellbeing. The

early childhood sector is demanding, and supporting educators in their roles not only benefits them but also enhances the quality of care provided to children. A strong sense of professional belonging and wellbeing among staff leads to more engaged and emotionally available educators, which in turn creates a positive learning environment for children.

The value of high-quality early childhood education cannot be overstated. Studies show that early learning experiences are instrumental in shaping a child’ s future success, emotional regulation, and social skills. By placing equal emphasis on education and emotional wellbeing, Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten is setting a new benchmark for childcare in North Richmond.

Parents can now access reliable, high-quality care for their children without the added stress of long waiting lists or the need to travel outside their local area. With dedicated educators, state-of-theart facilities, and a strong focus on mental health and wellbeing, Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten has emerged as a standout provider in the region.

With early learning opportunities continuing to grow, families in North Richmond can be confident that their children are receiving

Opening of Riverview St, Monday 10 March 2025 Front: Tegan Dear( Centre Director), Rhiannon Wright( Traditional Custodian of the Dharug Nation), Les Sheather( Hawkesbury City Mayor), Mike Creed( Councillor) Back: Jacquie & John Sarkis( Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten owners)

the best possible foundation for lifelong success. Thanks to initiatives like those led by Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten, the community now has access to comprehensive early education and family support services in an environment where children can truly thrive.

ENQUIRE ABOUT ENROLMENT TODAY. North Richmond: 25 Riverview Street( 02) 4508 4249 7 Elizabeth Street( 02) 4508 4228 | Redbank: 21 Arthur Phillip Drive 4508 4229 | www. caring4kids. com. au

Caring 4 Kids Kindergarten are family-owned long day care centres catering for children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age.

North Richmond Riverview St

25 Riverview Street North Richmond NSW 2754 02 4508 4249

rsnorthrichmond @ caring4kids. com. au

JUST OPENED ENQUIRE NOW

In-house Wellness Facilitator, Family Support, Counselling | Accredited EMDR Therapist, Wellbeing & Early Childhood Consultant Tiffany Shipard Bassett // Phone 0431 678 733 Email: info @ roadmaptolife. com. au

North Richmond Elizabeth St

7 Elizabeth Street North Richmond NSW 2754 02 4508 4228

esnorthrichmond @ caring4kids. com. au

North Richmond Redbank

21 Arthur Phillip Drive Access via 42 Yobarnie Ave Ph: 02 4508 4229

northrichmond @ caring4kids. com. au

www. caring4kids. com. au

Take advantage of Preschool Fee Relief in

Long Day Care

THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 179 // APRIL 2025 19