Welcome
As we begin a new year at Stride, we want to warmly welcome both our returning families and those joining us for the first time. The start of the year often brings excitement, change and adjustment for children and parents alike. Whether your child is settling back in after the holidays, transitioning into a new room, or you are navigating new routines at home or work, please know our teams are here to support you every step of the way.
At Stride, we believe early learning is built on strong relationships, trust and consistency. Our focus is on creating environments where children feel safe, confident and genuinely cared for, and where families feel supported, heard and connected as the year unfolds.
Rory – Owner | Stride Early Learning
THIS MONTH AT STRIDE
As we step into February, many of our children and families are finding their rhythm for the year ahead. Whether your child is returning after the summer break, settling into a new room, or adjusting to a change in routine, this time of year is full of growth, transition and new beginnings.
Across our centres, our focus is on gentle transitions, building confidence and creating a strong sense of belonging from the very start of the year. Our educators are supporting children as they reconnect with familiar faces, form new friendships and settle into daily rhythms through calm routines, meaningful play and warm, consistent relationships.
For many families, February can also bring changes at home, including a return to work after parental leave or shifts in weekly schedules. We understand how significant these moments can feel, and our teams are committed to providing reassuring drop offs, clear communication and trusted educator connections so you can feel confident and supported as the year unfolds.
This month’s update shares what’s happening across Stride, along with reminders and support designed to help the start of the year feel calm, connected and well supported for your family.
DATES & REMINDERS
As the year gets underway, we kindly remind families to keep the following in mind.
If your routine or booked days have changed, please let your Centre Manager know.
Ensure all medical information, allergy plans and immunisation records are up to date.
If you are thinking ahead to 2026 enrolment needs, we encourage early conversations, as some centres have limited availability.
UPCOMING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN TERM 1
Monday 2 March – Labour Day
Friday 3 April – Good Friday
Monday 6 April – Easter Monday
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS IN TERM 1
Term 1 runs from Monday 2 February to Thursday 2 April 2026.
Autumn school holidays begin on Friday 3 April and conclude on Sunday 19 April 2026.
To support families throughout their early learning journey, we have also introduced a Childcare Checklist booklet. While many families are already well settled at Stride, this resource can be a helpful reference to revisit our approach, share with friends or family, or reflect on the values and practices that support your child each day. Families will see this booklet shared in centres and online.
You can also explore more about the initiatives being introduced across Stride here:
If you are navigating changes at home or adjusting care days, your centre team is always available to talk things through with you.
SAFETY & CULTURE
Children’s safety, wellbeing and emotional security guide everything we do at Stride. Establishing trust, consistency and clear communication early in the year is especially important, particularly for children experiencing new routines or transitions.
Stride to speak up
Stride to Speak Up is our values-led initiative that supports a culture of openness and accountability across all centres. It empowers educators to speak up about anything that does not feel right, knowing their voice will be heard and acted on. This strong internal culture helps protect children, support our teams and strengthen trust with families.
Families are always welcome to speak with their Centre Manager if they have questions, feedback or concerns.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
Supporting wellbeing during times of change is a shared partnership between home and care. Consistent routines, reassurance from trusted adults, outdoor play and rest all help children feel secure and supported as they settle into the year.
For many families, this period includes returning to work after parental leave or adjusting work and care schedules. These transitions can feel significant, both emotionally and practically. At Stride, we work closely with families to support children through separation, routine changes and new environments, while offering parents reassurance through clear communication and trusted educator relationships.
If you are preparing to return to work, or already finding your feet, our latest blog shares practical guidance to support this transition:
Monthly wellbeing reminder
A labelled water bottle each day helps children stay comfortable, focused and ready to learn. Small habits can make a big difference.
Recipe of the month!
Chocolate and Coconut Weet-Bix Slice
A classic, budget-friendly slice that is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing at home.
Ingredients
9 Weet-Bix biscuits
3 cups desiccated coconut
1 cup caster sugar
3 cups self-raising flour
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
450g salted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla essence
2½ cups soft icing mixture
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
4 tablespoons hot water
Method
Break up the Weet-Bix and place into a bowl with the coconut and sugar.
Sift over the flour and cocoa powder and stir to combine.
Melt the butter over a low heat, pour over the mixture, add vanilla and mix well.
Spoon into lined baking dishes and bake for 15 minutes at 180 degrees until cooked through.
Mix icing sugar, cocoa and hot water, then ice while the slice is still warm.
Chill until set and cut into squares to serve.
With thanks to Stride Early Learning Ardross for sharing this recipe.
QUICK LINKS & CONTACTS
Parent Hub and Resources
Available via the website or through your centre team
Contact Us
Phone: (08) 6285 7400
