Family day care versus long day care: Which one’s right for your kid?

Once upon a time, choosing childcare was a matter of waltzing through the neighbourhood and into your nearest centre (where you'd have a guaranteed spot). Nowadays, we're registering our interest before our little ones even arrive earthside.  

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So you end up digging through parent forums and local Facebook pages to not only find child care services with an open spot, but also understand what the difference is between each one. There are a lot of options these days, like family day care versus long day care.

They both tick important boxes. They’re both regulated. They both promise learning, care, and consistency. So what’s the difference?

This guide is here to hold your hand (and protect your sanity) if you’re stuck between the two.

What is long day care?

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Long Day Care (LDC) is what many families picture when they think about formal early childhood services. It’s a centre-based service typically open 10 to 12 hours a day, five days a week, and operating year-round (minus public holidays).

These care services are usually run out of purpose-built facilities. You’ll find bright rooms filled with craft, learning corners, outdoor play areas, sleep zones, nappy change rooms and even on-site kitchens.

They’re regulated under the National Quality Framework, which means everything from staff qualifications to safety standards and child-to-educator ratios is closely monitored.

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Benefits of long day care service

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For many working families, LDCs give a sense of structure and predictability that just fits.

The set hours make it easier to manage work schedules. Meals and snacks are usually provided (big win for time-poor mornings). And the program is designed to support developmental stages, with kids grouped by age and learning alongside their peers.

Educators are usually diploma- or degree-qualified in early childhood education. The curriculum is structured, evidence-based and aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework.

There’s also the added reassurance of consistency: multiple educators, reliable staffing, and a familiar routine every week.

And if you’re eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), it’s a more affordable opt too.

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What is family day care?

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Family day care (FDC) is a home-based model of care. A registered educator opens their home to a maximum of seven children, but no more than four under school age.

It’s a bit more low-key. The days tend to be slower and more flexible, and the learning is shaped around the group’s dynamics and the children’s individual interests.

Family day care educators are trained and registered, often working under the umbrella of a local coordination scheme. They need to hold (or be working towards) a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education, and they must be up to date with first aid.

One of the biggest drawcards? The flexibility. Some FDCs have early starts, late finishes, weekend care, or even overnight options, which can be a game changer if you’re working shifts or juggling multiple kids with different schedules.

The benefits of family day care service

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For children who get overwhelmed in big, noisy groups – or for parents who want more of a home-away-from-home vibe – FDC can be a great fit.

Smaller groups mean more individual attention. Educators can tailor their approach to suit each child’s personality and pace. And the continuity of having the same person caring for your child every day helps build strong, trusting relationships.

It’s also not just for toddlers and babies. Many FDCs care for older children before and after school too.

And yes, Child Care Subsidy applies here too, provided the educator is part of a government-approved service.

Family day care vs long day care: Let’s compare

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Size & setting

LDC centres often have multiple rooms, staff, and dozens of kids. They’re bigger and more structured. FDC is the opposite – one educator, one small group, and a home-based setup. Some children thrive in a buzzing, social space. Others feel safer in a quieter, familiar environment.

Learning & development

Both care types follow the Early Years Learning Framework, but the delivery looks different.

• LDC often uses a formal curriculum with planned activities tailored to each age group.
• FDC educators weave learning into daily routines and play in a way that can be more fluid and child-led.

Socialisation

LDC offers more peer interaction, different educators, and the chance to learn group dynamics early on. It can prep kids well for kindy or school.

FDC provides more consistency with the same educator and a tight-knit group, which helps some children feel more secure and confident.

Flexibility & hours

LDC has fixed hours and set routines, whereas FDC can flex around your life. This is especially useful for casual workers, early risers, or parents with unusual rosters.

Cost & CCS

LDCs usually charge a fixed daily rate, which may not always work if you only need short sessions. On the other hand, FDCs often charge by the hour, which can make it more affordable for part-time or flexible needs. Either way, Child Care Subsidy can be applied if you’re eligible.

So… which one should you choose?

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That really depends on your child and your life.

Here are a few questions to help you narrow it down:

• Does your child enjoy larger groups, or do they feel more comfortable in smaller, quieter spaces?
• Are fixed hours helpful for your work routine, or do you need flexibility day-to-day?
• Do you want a purpose-built learning space with age-grouped programs, or do you prefer the feel of home-based learning?
• What’s your budget, and how far will the Child Care Subsidy stretch depending on the provider?

Also, think about logistics: proximity, transport, siblings, routine.

Visit a mix of providers in your area. Go to open days. Chat to the educators. Take your child along for a visit and see how they respond.

Wrapping it up

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At the end of the day, both Family Day Care and Long Day Care are built to give your child a safe, caring, and enriching place to learn and grow.

Your child is their own little person, and the best care is the one that meets them where they’re at.

So take the time to explore your options and ask the questions that matter to you. Your child, your family, your call.