Kindergarten 3-6 years
Our 3–6 year Kindergarten Program blends Montessori's methodology with Victoria's funded kindergarten framework — delivering a rich, purposeful learning environment where every child is seen, heard, and celebrated.
At Montessori Minds, we believe the earliest years of learning shape a child's identity, confidence, and love of discovery. Our Kindergarten Program is thoughtfully designed around the Montessori Children's House philosophy, while also aligning with the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF). Within a carefully prepared environment, children aged 3–6 are supported to explore, create, and grow through self-directed learning experiences that foster independence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Children work at their own pace, develop real-life independence, and build meaningful connections within a mixed-age community that mirrors the natural rhythms of family life.
Our program supports each stage of development
Children settle into the prepared environment, building confidence, routine, and a love of exploration through sensorial discovery and practical life activities.
- Develop social skills — sharing, cooperation, communication
- Foster emotional regulation and self-awareness
- Encourage curiosity and play-based exploration
- Introduce emergent literacy and numeracy through hands-on materials
- Build fine and gross motor skills through purposeful activity
- Cultivate creativity through art, music, and movement
- Promote independence — dressing, caring for environment
- Nurture a love for nature through outdoor discovery
- Develop reading, writing, and early numeracy foundations
- Strengthen social and emotional intelligence
- Encourage problem-solving and decision-making
- Foster curiosity and exposure to new ideas
- Build strong communication and interpersonal confidence
- Promote positive identity and self-esteem
- Prepare for the transition to formal schooling
- Engage with Indigenous perspectives and culture
— — Quick answer
Montessori Minds Childcare and Kindergarten is a Montessori long day care centre and funded kindergarten at 21–29 Princes Highway, Norlane (North Geelong) VIC 3214, serving families across Geelong. We care for children across Babies, Toddlers and a mixed-age 3–6 Kindergarten, and deliver a Victorian Government funded kindergarten program of 15 hours a week for eligible children, taught by a teacher registered with the Victorian Institute of Teaching. Open Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, 52 weeks a year excluding public holidays. Phone (03) 5222 8135.
- Rooms Babies · Toddlers · Kindergarten (3–6)
- Hours Mon–Fri, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Daily fee From $148 before Child Care Subsidy
- Funded kinder 15 hours a week for eligible children
- Free Kinder Up to $2,101 per child per year in 2026
- Location Norlane, Geelong VIC 3214
Every child develops at their own pace. Fees are current from 8 August 2026. Subsidy and funding amounts are set by the Australian and Victorian Governments and may change; we confirm your entitlement at enrolment.
- 01 Trust & respect — a learning environment grounded in mutual dignity and belonging
- 02 Collaboration — working alongside peers on group activities and shared tasks
- 03 Communication — expressing thoughts and feelings clearly, confidently, and kindly
- 04 Organisation — developing order, sequencing, and self-management habits
- 05 Independence — taking initiative, completing tasks, and managing transitions
- 06 Listening & responding — following multi-step instructions in a group setting