How to Choose After School Care: A Parent's Guide

Choosing the right after school care (OSHC) program for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. Here's what to consider:

1. Location & Pickup Does the provider operate on school grounds, or do they pick up from the school gate? On-site programs are the most convenient, but pickup services can work well if the provider is close by.

2. Hours & Flexibility Most after school care programs run from 3:00pm to 6:00pm. Check if there are late pickup fees and whether casual bookings are available alongside permanent spots.

3. CCS Eligibility The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Make sure the provider is CCS approved and registered with the Australian Government.

4. Program Quality Look for programs that offer a mix of structured activities (sports, arts, homework support) and free play. Ask about educator qualifications and staff-to-child ratios.

5. Reviews & Reputation Check Google reviews and ask other parents at your school. Word of mouth is often the best indicator of quality.

6. Fees After school care fees in Sydney typically range from $20-$35 per day before CCS. Compare fees across multiple providers to find the best value.

Finding Providers for Your School Use Busyroo to see all the after school care, sports, tutoring, and other activity providers for your child's school — with fees, hours, and reviews all in one place.