FAQs
How much does Geckos cost?
Our fee structure is based around the age of your child, number of days you are attending, and whether your child is with us for short or full days. Feel free to visit one of our centres and we will happily talk you through our fee structure.
Do you offer 20 ECE hours?
Yes. We offer 20 hours early childhood education for over 3 year olds, subsidised by the Ministry of Education. You can find out more about how this works on the Ministry website: www.education.govt.nz
How many children are at the centre?
We have split our intake, by age, across our three centres (Little Geckos, The Nest, and Geckos) to ensure we can deliver age-appropriate care and learning to all our children. Each centre holds a small licence so that we can maintain quality relationships with our whanau.
Little Geckos - 19 Licence The Nest - 28 Licence Geckos - 26 Licence Do I need to enrol in advance?
Enrolling as early as possible is highly recommended. This way we can ensure that we can provide you with what you need for your child. We are often full so leaving it to the last minute can result in disappointment.
How are my children protected from the outside elements?
Getting outdoors is important for health and wellbeing. To ensure our children are safe outside, we have purpose-built pay areas that provide shelter from rain and sun. Dressed appropriately, children can play in puddles, build sandcastles and stomp on fallen leaves, whilst remaining protected from the elements.
Are you open during statutory holidays?
No. We are closed on all the statutory holidays. We do not charge for these days.
What if my child gets sick?
If your child is unwell, we ask that he or she be kept at home. This is for the benefit of both your child and the other children at the centre. Please call us and let us know if your child is going to be absent and notify us if they have an infectious disease such as Chicken Pox, Hand Foot and Mouth or Conjunctivitis etc. Sick days are still charged for.
What should I pack in my child’s bag?
We encourage messy play at childcare, so it’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes or 2. In summer, all children need a sunhat. We provide sunscreen, but if you’d prefer to use your own, please pack that too. In winter, all children need a warm hat, jacket and waterproof footwear.
How will my pre-schooler be prepared for school?
We know the transition from early learning to primary school is a big change in your child's life. Starting school might seem like a long way off but the time to start thinking (and talking) about going to school is when your child turns four. A positive transition to school supports better learning and well-being outcomes for your child. Our aim is for your child to feel safe, confident and connected to their new school and friends. We hope to work with everyone (your child and friends, whanau and new school) so your child can take who they are and what they know into the classroom and will be supported to continue on their learning journey
What if my child doesn’t settle in?
Each child has different needs and some take longer than others to adjust to new environments. We like to work with you on the best strategy for your child. Feel free to book a visit and we can talk about what would work best for you.
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