- 24 Oct 2025
- 9:28 am
Take a Break. Save with Stride.
As school holidays creep closer and families start planning trips away, one question continues to pop up in parenting groups and Google searches alike:
- “Do I still have to pay childcare fees if my child doesn’t attend?”
- “What happens to my booked day if it falls on a public holiday?”
- “Is there any way to save on childcare over the holidays?”
If you’re asking these questions – you’re not alone. And the good news? At Stride Early Learning, we’ve got an answer that might surprise you.
Why Most Childcare Centres Still Charge You — Even When You’re Not There
In Australia, it’s standard industry practice for childcare centres to charge families full fees, even when a child is absent – whether it’s due to a family holiday or a public holiday.
While this model keeps spots reserved and staff paid, it often leaves parents feeling like they’re paying for something they’re not using. And with the rising cost of living, every dollar matters.
That’s why Stride decided to do things differently.
Our Holiday Fees Policy: Giving You More Flexibility (and Fairness)
At Stride Early Learning, we believe childcare should work around your family – not the other way around.
With our new Holiday Fees Policy, families can now plan ahead and save:
50% Off Fees for Planned Holiday Absences
Taking a family trip? Visiting relatives?
If your child will be away for 2 or more consecutive days, just submit a Holiday Notification Form with 2 weeks’ notice, and receive 50% off your usual fees for that period (up to 4 weeks per financial year).
Free Replacement Days for Public Holidays
If your child’s booked day of care falls on a public holiday, you won’t lose out.
You can book a replacement care day for free, to be used within 4 weeks of the public holiday.
No more paying for a day your child can’t attend – just flexibility that works for real life.
Take a Break. Save with Stride.
We designed this policy with one thing in mind: helping families feel supported – not penalised – when life takes them away from care.
Whether you’re:
- Planning a long weekend
- Taking a mid-term break
- Booking a big overseas holiday
- Or just needing to skip a few days for family time
Stride gives you more control, less stress, and real savings.
Why This Matters (and Parents are Switching to Stride)
More families are searching online for answers to questions like:
- “Can I pause childcare during holidays?”
- “How do I get childcare discounts when going away?”
- “Do you pay for childcare on public holidays?”
The truth? At most centres, you do. But at Stride, we offer a smarter solution. And for many new families, it’s a deciding factor when choosing where to enrol.
It’s not just a policy – it’s peace of mind.
How to Access the Policy
It’s easy. Whether you’re already enrolled or just considering a switch:
- Visit: strideearlylearning.wa.edu.au/holiday-notification
- Fill out the quick Holiday Notification Form
- Submit it at least 2 weeks before your planned leave
- Enjoy the savings while you enjoy your break!
Want Chilcare That Works for You?
If you’re currently enrolled elsewhere and tired of paying for care you’re not using, it might be time to make a change.
Stride Early Learning offers high-quality early education plus policies that work around real family life – like our Holiday Fees Policy.
Book a centre tour or speak with your local team today.
Because taking a break shouldn’t mean wasting money.
Take a Break. Save with Stride.
Smart childcare starts here.
