Why Kinder is important

Kindergarten is an important step in every child’s learning journey.

It’s where children develop confidence, independence, social skills and a love of learning that supports them throughout school and life. Research shows that children who attend a high-quality kindergarten program are more likely to have stronger foundations in literacy, numeracy, problem-solving and emotional regulation.

At Lili’s Early Learning Centre Hoppers Crossing, we proudly offer Victorian Government funded Free Kinder programs for both 3 and 4-Year-Old Kinder. This means families can access the same government-funded kindergarten hours that council and community kinders provide — but with the added benefit of long day care hours for greater flexibility.

Council kinders vs kindergarten at Lili’s

Many council and community kinders operate on sessional programs, which typically run during school hours and school terms only. This means families often need to arrange alternative care before and after the session, or during school holidays.

At Lili’s, our kindergarten program is embedded within our long day care service, giving families:

  • Access to extended hours (7:00am – 6:30pm), not just school hours

  • Care and education that continues during school holidays

  • The same Free Kinder government funding for 3 and 4-Year-Old Kinder

  • A consistent environment where children learn, play and feel settled throughout the day

  • The flexibility to support working families without the need for additional care arrangements

This means your child receives the full benefit of a government-approved kindergarten program, delivered by qualified teachers, while families enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of long day care hours.

What is 3-Year-Old Kinder?

3-Year-Old Kinder is for children turning three by 30 April in their kinder year. It introduces children to a structured early learning program while still focusing on play, curiosity and exploration.

At this stage, children build:

  • Early social skills such as sharing, turn-taking and working with others

  • Confidence in new environments

  • Communication and early language development

  • Early literacy and numeracy concepts through songs, stories and play

  • Curiosity and creativity through art, sensory play and outdoor exploration

What is 4-Year-Old Kinder?

4-Year-Old Kinder is for children turning four by 30 April in their kinder year. This program deepens learning and prepares children for the transition to school.

The focus is on:

  • Strengthening literacy and numeracy skills through interactive, play-based learning

  • Building independence and self-help skills like dressing, toileting and managing belongings

  • Enhancing problem-solving, resilience and persistence

  • Developing strong friendships and social confidence

  • Preparing for school routines such as group learning and following multi-step instructions

3-Year-Old Kinder vs 4-Year-Old Kinder

While both programs are play-based and delivered by qualified early childhood teachers, they are tailored to different developmental stages.

3-Year-Old Kinder

  • First introduction to structured early learning

  • Strong focus on play, socialisation and building confidence

  • Lays the foundation for communication, curiosity and belonging

4-Year-Old Kinder

  • Builds on the foundations of 3-Year-Old Kinder

  • Stronger emphasis on literacy, numeracy and school readiness

  • Encourages independence, resilience and responsibility

  • Supports a smooth transition to Prep