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North Shore Childcare & Early Learning Centre Guide

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Play to Learn Early Learning Centre, Turramurra
Play to Learn Early Learning Centre, Turramurra

Looking for a trusted childcare centre on Sydney’s North Shore? Choosing a childcare centre that best suits your child’s needs is a big decision. Our North Shore Childcare & Early Learning Centre Guide showcases some wonderful childcare centres across the North Shore, all with different philosophies and values for you to explore.

Choosing the right early learning environment is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child — it’s where their curiosity, confidence, and love of learning begin to flourish.

Our North Shore Childcare & Early Learning Centre Guide brings together a diverse range of high-quality centres, each with its own unique philosophy, curriculum, and community spirit. From purpose-built facilities with innovative programs to boutique, family-run centres offering a warm, home-like environment, you’ll find an option that perfectly suits your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle.

Whether you’re seeking a nurturing nursery, a play-based preschool, or a centre with a strong school-readiness focus, this guide is your go-to resource for exploring and comparing some of the best childcare options on the North Shore.

Click on the links below to quickly go to the complete listing in our North Shore Childcare & Early Learning Centre Guide:

Prefer a preschool? Take a look at our North Shore Preschool Guide too!

VIEW THE NORTH SHORE PRESCHOOL GUIDE

Childcare Centres on Sydney’s Lower North Shore

Senses Early Learning Centre, Milsons Point

Senses Early Learning Centre in Milsons Point offers a unique early learning experience rooted in sensory exploration.

Their philosophy emphasises hands-on experiences through their standout Senses Ignite curriculum, which fosters communication, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

Their tailored programs ensure each child’s educational journey is engaging and fulfilling, supported by a dedicated team of educators in a nurturing environment. Join them at Senses ELC for a foundation of love, learning, and growth. Give your child the best start in their educational journey.

Interested in exploring Senses Early Learning Centre? Call them on 02 9003 1300 or book your tour online.

  • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
  • Hours: 7:30am – 6:00pm
  • Meals: All meals and snacks included.

Contact Senses Early Learning Centre

Atchison Cottage and Preschool, Crows Nest

Atchison Cottage and Atchison Preschool aim to provide a safe, family-like environment for all children entrusted into our care.

They recognise that family and community are the most important and influential aspects of young children’s lives, and the significance of this relationship cannot be underestimated.

Through their partnerships and strong relationships with families, Atchison Centres work towards complementing the home environment. They aim for children to feel secure, loved, respected and nurtured, ensuring each child has a strong sense of identity, trust and independence.

The protective care initiated by all Educators at Atchison Centres ensures the safety and well-being of each child.

  • Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years
  • Hours: 8am – 6pm
  • Meals: All meals and snacks included.
  • Fees: 0-2 years -$199 per day | 3-5years – $189 per day

Contact Atchison Cottage and Preschool

    BubbaDesk, Neutral Bay

    At BubbaDesk, they provide high-quality childcare and early learning tailored to the critical first 1000 days of a child’s development. Their centres are designed to nurture secure attachment, emotional well-being, and a strong sense of belonging.

    With small group sizes, qualified educators, and a warm, home-like environment, they focus on responsive care and play-based learning that supports each child’s individual growth. They know the early years lay the foundation for lifelong mental health and education, which is why our approach combines evidence-based practice with genuine connection.

    Located alongside their coworking spaces, BubbaDesk gives working parents peace of mind, knowing their children are close by and thriving.

    • Ages: 6 weeks – 2 years
    • Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm 
    • Meals: No, bring your own recess & lunchbox 
    • Fees: $175 per day (60% of fees are tax-deductible)

    Contact BubbaDesk

    Explore & Develop Artarmon – Dickson Ave

    Explore & Develop Artarmon – Dickson Ave

    Explore & Develop Artarmon Dickson Ave is committed to positively impacting children, families, educators & the community. Owner Alison Cross has 30 years’ experience in early childhood, including the last 18 years as co-owner of sister service E&D Artarmon Campbell Street, the only service in Artarmon rated Exceeding in the National Quality Standards.

    Alison strives for excellence & believes a strong, supported team are the heart of a service. Grounded in strong relationships, E&D offers a play-based curriculum that inspires children to think critically, investigate & solve problems through exploration & play.

    Regardless of age or stage, children are supported to build curiosity, resilience, empathy, creativity & self-expression, helping them become confident, capable & ready to embrace new challenges.

    • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
    • Hours: 7.30am – 6pm
    • Meals: All meals and snacks included.
    • Fees: 0-2 years -$182 per day | 2-3 years – $176 per day | 3-6 years $166

    Explore & Develop Artarmon – Dickson Ave 

      Busy Bees Early Learning (Lane Cove)

      Busy Bees Early Learning (Lane Cove)

      At Busy Bees at Lane Cove, they offer more than just childcare — they provide a premium early learning experience.

      With all-inclusive care, flexible hours, and an expert team of educators, your child will enjoy an enriched program that includes nature play, excursions, cooking, yoga, creative arts, language, and music. It’s all part of their commitment to delivering the best start in life.

      Their beautifully refurbished centre features brand new, dedicated playgrounds for each age group, fresh interiors, and thoughtfully designed learning spaces that nurture creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Conveniently located on Burns Bay Road, just moments from the local shopping village, Busy Bees at Lane Cove blends care, community and quality like no other.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 4 years
      • Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included.
      • Fees: 0-2 years – $182 per day | 2-3 years – $179 per day | 3-5 years – $175 per day

      Contact Busy Bees Early Learning

      Jambra Early Learning (Chatswood)

      Jambra Early Learning (Chatswood)

      Welcome to Jambra Early Learning, where every child is celebrated, nurtured, and inspired to explore the world around them. Here, curiosity is encouraged, creativity is celebrated, and every day is a new adventure.

      A key point of their Jambra philosophy is to nurture each child’s curiosity, creativity, and individuality through a play-based learning approach. Every day, children are encouraged to explore, imagine, and learn at their own pace, building confidence and a lifelong love of discovery.

      Their unique programs are designed to celebrate and nurture each child’s skills, talents, and interests. Whether exploring our gardens, creating beautiful masterpieces, cooking up a storm, or joyfully discovering their interactive learning environments, every activity is thoughtfully tailored to engage, inspire, and help children uncover their passions and reach their full potential.

      Their dedicated, full-time educators are experienced and passionate about early childhood learning. They build strong, caring relationships with every child, guiding their growth while fostering a safe, supportive, and joyful environment. With consistency and expertise, our team ensures that each child feels valued, confident, and inspired to explore, learn, and thrive every day.

      Jambra is more than a learning centre – it’s a thriving community. By fostering strong connections between children, families, and educators, we create a supportive environment where children feel valued, inspired, and confident. Their welcoming indoor and outdoor spaces encourage exploration, collaboration, and discovery, helping every child grow and thrive each day. 

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
      • Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included.

      Contact Jambra Early Learning

      Childcare Centres on Sydney’s Upper North Shore

      Thomas Carlyle Children’s Centre (East Lindfield)

      Thomas Carlyle Children’s Centre

      The Thomas Carlyle Children’s Centre (TCCC) offers high-quality, full-day care for young children in a stimulating, safe, and nurturing environment. It aims to promote self-esteem and positive attitudes to learning in an atmosphere of emotional and physical security. It encourages choice, fun, growth, and active participation!

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
      • Hours: 7.30am-6pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included
      • Fees: $150-$160 per day

      Contact Thomas Carlyle Children’s Centre

      Leo’s Early Education (Killara) 

      At Little Leo’s, they take the big scaries and transform them into big adventures, making life and learning exciting.

      Their approach to early childcare is rooted in nurture. They’ve taken fundamental education principles – including numeracy, literacy, and communication – and combined them with more holistic education pillars – such as music, swimming and gardening – to create an inclusive space where children can explore and learn through play.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
      • Hours: 7am-6pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included

      Contact Leo’s Early Education (Killara)

      Giggle and Learn Early Childcare and Education Centre, Pymble

      Giggle and Learn Early Childcare and Education Centre, Pymble

      Located at 1 Shaddock Avenue, Pymble, their brand-new, purpose-built early education centre offers a nurturing and stimulating environment where children from 8 weeks to 6 years can learn, grow, and thrive.

      Although their Pymble centre is new, Giggle and Learn is a proud family-owned and operated group that has been providing high-quality early childhood education for over eight years.

      Their 62-place centre is designed to support the holistic development of every child. They work in close partnership with families to meet each child’s individual needs, ensuring they receive the best possible start in life.

      • Ages: 8 weeks – 6 years
      • Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included.

      Contact Giggle and Learn Early Childcare and Education Centre

      Academy For Early Learners, West Pymble

      The Academy is a premium childcare centre located in West Pymble, catering for children from birth to 6 years old.
      Their program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, focusing on creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning.

      They offer a range of extra-curricular activities, all included in their affordable fees, such as:

      • Piano lessons
      • Sports sessions
      • Dance and Happy Feet programs
      • Art workshops
      • Incursions, excursions, and regular transportation services
      • Bush Kindy program

      They also work closely with health and developmental specialists, including an optometrist, occupational therapist, dentist, and speech pathologist, to support each child’s overall wellbeing and development. They also have a vacation care program.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
      • Hours: 6:30am – 6:30pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included.
      • Fees: Preschool $145, Toddlers $150, Nursery $160

      Contact Academy For Early Learners

      Billy Kids Pymble

      At Billy Kids Pymble, children aged 6 weeks to 6 years can learn and grow in an inspiring environment set within a stunning Federation home. Billy Kids Pymble is an ‘Exceeding’ centre that has a culture of excellence in education, love and nurture. The educators support open communication with families and are dedicated to working alongside parents to help children develop the foundational skills they will need to succeed at school and beyond.

      Billy Kids is renowned for attracting and keeping the best early childhood professionals in the North Shore. Training, caring for and supporting Educators is their number one priority and what truly sets them apart.

      The service has two separate outdoor playgrounds. The children can care for the veggie gardens, get their hands dirty in the mud kitchen or explore the water pump. There is plenty of shade from beautiful trees so that the children can develop their physical skills in a safe and fun environment. The indoor areas make the most of the natural light to create vibrant spaces for children to learn through play. 

      Located on Mona Vale Road, the centre is easy to access and offers an on-site car park for safe pick-up and drop-off.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
      • Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included.
      • Fees: 0-3 years: $229.50 | 3-5 years: $208.50

      Contact Billy Kids Pymble

      St Ives Chase Kindergarten

      St Ives Chase Kindergarten

      Open since 1991, St Ives Chase Kindergarten is a CCS-approved long day care and preschool operating 7am – 6pm, 50 weeks per year, for children aged 2.5 to 6 years. They provide more than care, they nurture curious, confident learners through a balanced blend of play-based, inquiry-driven and learning experiences.

      What makes them unique:

      • Nature & Outdoor Learning Focus: Their centre integrates nature play daily. Children explore gardens, sand, water, and natural elements as part of their learning, fostering curiosity, resilience and environmental awareness.
      • Strong Educator Team & Stability: Their experienced educators remain with them long-term, providing continuity of care. They maintain low staff turnover to build secure relationships with children and families.
      • Supportive Transition to School: Their preschool program scaffolds key literacy, numeracy and social skills, ensuring children are confident, not just school-ready. They liaise with local schools to ease the transition.
      • Family Partnership & Communication: They actively collaborate with families, sharing learning via the OWNA App, parent–teacher conversations, and family involvement events.
      • Extras & Inclusions: They include afternoon tea; parents supply recess & lunch. They organise incursions, excursions, and onsite events to enrich learning.
      • Flexible Attendance Options: Choose from 1 to 5 days per week. They offer flexible drop-off/pick-up windows to support working families.
      • Safe & Stimulating Environment: Their environments are designed for discovery: well-resourced learning spaces, interactive corners, open-ended materials, and a strong emphasis on child agency and exploration.

      To learn more or book a centre tour, please call (02) 9449 8829 or email Tina – [email protected]. Visit their website for photos, parent reviews, and more details.

      • Ages: 2.5 years – 6 years
      • Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
      • Meals: Afternoon tea included. Bring your own recess & lunchbox.
      • Fees: Preschool hours (9am-3pm) $135 per day | Long Day Care (7am-6pm) $152 per day

      Contact St Ives Chase Kindergarten

      Handprints (St Ives)

      Handprints (St Ives)

      Handprints is a small family-owned company with four beautiful early learning environments. Owned and run by Julia, an experienced and university-trained early childhood teacher who is also a mum of three. Education, children, and family are at the centre of what Handprints offers. Their environments offer open-ended learning opportunities, a love of nature, and excursions, as well as creative setups that capture children’s interest and extend their thinking skills. At Handprints, children love to wonder and ask questions!

      Extra-curricular activities include:

      • Jim Jam music classes operate once per week
      • Intergenerational Preschool – partnered with Videri Homes – once a fortnight
      • They also offer a parent education program with PD opportunities for families, such as speech therapists, OTs, paediatricians, Screen Time, Behaviour, etc.

      Their early learning schools cater to children from birth to five years, and all spaces are staffed with highly qualified teachers to support children through the transition to school. They operate long hours (7am to 6pm), except for Tennyson Preschool, which is open from 8am to 4:30 pm.

      Contact Handprints

      • Address:
        • Handprints St Ives – 102 Warrimoo Avenue, St Ives 2075
        • Handprints Turramurra – 49-51 Boomerang St, Turramurra 2074
        • Handprints Killara – 1 Ridgeland Avenue, Killara, 2071
        • Tennyson Preschool by Handprints – 50 Tennyson Avenue, Turramurra 2074
      • Email (enrolments): [email protected]
      • Phone: 0424 515 131
      • Website: handprints.nsw.edu.au

      Lead Early Learning Centres, St Ives

      Lead Early Learning Centres, St Ives

      Lead Early Learning Centres are family-owned and operated, providing a warm, nurturing environment where child safety is our top priority. Set in leafy natural surroundings, their centres inspire children to explore, connect with nature, and grow.

      Their passionate educators are committed to each child’s learning journey, with above-regulated educator-to-child ratios ensuring personalised support. Their engaging curriculum includes weekly experiences like Mini Chefs, Music, Sports Tots, and Messy Play. They foster respectful relationships, school readiness, and a lifelong love of learning. Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Book a tour and experience the Lead difference.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years
      • Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
      • Meals: Yes, all meals and snacks
      • Fees: 0-2 years $170.00 | 2-3 years $165.00 | 3-4 years $160.00 | 4-5 years $160.00

      Contact Lead Early Learning Centres, St Ives

      Play to Learn Early Learning Centre (Turramurra)

      Play to Learn Early Learning Centre (Turramurra)

      Play to Learn Turramurra is now open and accepting enrolments, as well as offering play sessions and tours!

      Their newest premium early learning centre offers a holistic, empowering, and inspiring approach to early childhood education, where every child is supported to reach their full potential physically, emotionally, and socially.

      As the second Play to Learn location, their Turramurra centre reflects their commitment to innovation, excellence, and community. Children thrive through their renowned Empowered Children’s Program and Academic Enrichment Program, supported by highly qualified early childhood teachers and educators who nurture curiosity, confidence, and resilience.

      With natural and organic design elements, state-of-the-art facilities, and a personalised approach to care and learning, they create an environment where children are inspired to grow and families feel truly supported.

      Their programs include Qigong for Children, the Empowered Children’s Program, the Academic Enrichment program, music and language classes, and outdoor nature experiences, all underpinned by their emergent curriculum and supported by the Storypark Platform to celebrate each child’s learning journey.

      Book a tour, secure your child’s place, or join a play session to experience the Play to Learn difference.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included
      • Hours: 7am – 6pm
      • Fees: $178 – $195

      Contact Play to Learn ELC

      Turramurra Kindergarten (North Turramurra)

      Nestled in the beautiful surrounds of North Turramurra, this family-owned and operated early learning centre offers a warm, home-like environment where every child is known, valued, and nurtured. With a capacity of just 50 children, the centre creates a close-knit, personal setting that truly feels like an extension of your family.

      One of the things families love most is that the centre never uses casual staff. Their team is made up entirely of permanent, dedicated educators, ensuring consistency, stability, and strong, trusting relationships with every child.

      Their philosophy is built on the belief that early experiences and environments shape a child’s future. They provide a nurturing space that mirrors the warmth of home while supporting each child’s growth and development. The holistic preschool program covers nine key learning areas – from literacy and numeracy to creative arts, cooking experiences, and the Munch & Move healthy lifestyle initiative. Through excursions, incursions, and community engagement, learning comes to life in exciting, hands-on ways.

      A standout feature is their School Readiness Program, designed to build confidence, independence, and essential pre-literacy and numeracy skills. Working closely with local schools, they ensure a smooth and happy transition to “big school.”

      Passionate about sustainability, the centre features vegetable gardens, composting facilities, worm farms, and recycling hubs that foster a respect for nature. Outdoors, children explore sandpits, slides, climbing equipment, mud kitchens, and water play areas – inspiring curiosity, discovery, and joy every day.

      • Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years
      • Hours: 7am-6pm M-F excluding public holidays
      • Meals: All meals and snacks included
      • Fees: $173–$203 per day, depending on the age group.

        Contact Turramurra Kindergarten

        Adventures Preschool & Long Daycare (Turramurra, Pennant Hills, West Pennant Hills)

        Adventures Preschool & Long Daycare

        Families deserve quality early childhood education, and Adventures Preschool & LDC is a shining example of excellence.

        Adventures Preschool recently achieved a rare and prestigious accolade— rated EXCEEDING in all seven National Quality Areas by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority.

        Adventures goes above and beyond with its preschool curriculum to ensure children make a confident transition to school. Through strong partnerships with local primary schools, educators align their curriculum with early school expectations, participate in transition programs, and support families through the process.

        Adventures has created a culture of professional enquiry, where educators are encouraged to reflect, research, and refine their practice. It’s about being curious, innovative, and responsive to the ever-evolving needs of children and families.

        The owners and leadership team remain actively involved in day-to-day operations, ensuring a culture of accountability, responsiveness, and long-term vision.

        It is no coincidence that many of the centre’s enrolments come from repeat families—siblings, cousins.  Even former preschoolers are now Adventures teachers!

        In July 2025, Adventures Preschool was named ‘Outstanding Early Childhood Centre’ at the Local Business Awards. Winning the Local Business Awards is more than just a title- it’s a reflection of the high standards, passion, and care that define our service.

        Tours are welcome by appointment. To book, please call or email Rochelle.

        • Ages: 6 months – 5 years
        • Hours: 7.30am-6:00pm
        • Meals: All meals and snacks included
        • Fees: $160 – $190 per day

          Contact Adventures Preschool and Long Day Care

          • Locations:
            • 102 Kissing Point Road, South Turramurra | Phone: (02) 7258 7900
            • 23 Bellamy Street, Pennant Hills | Phone: (02) 9481 7765
            • 25 New Line Road, West Pennant Hills | Phone: (02) 9875 3391
          • Email: [email protected]
          • Website: adventurespreschool.com.au
          • Follow on Instagram

          VIEW THE NORTH SHORE PRESCHOOL GUIDE

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