PLEASE NOTE!
Playschools.co.za is NOT affiliated to any of the establishments listed on this website. We cannot answer queries on their behalf. If you have a question about a specific school, please contact them via the telephone number next to their name in the directory.

Choosing a pre-school or daycare facility for your precious child is an important decision, and not an easy one for most parents.

Whether you're a new parent on a first-time search, or relocating to another area, you need a one-stop place to find out what's available and who to contact.
The aim of this site is to assist parents in locating a suitable daycare or early-learning centre in your area.

While we offer a free listing for all establishments (giving only a name and phone number) under their relevent area, schools can also have their own webpage containing relevant information and a list of sports/extra mural activities offered.

This site will also serve as an advertising medium for businesses which would like to be associated with pre-schools in their area. Please see our advertising enquiry form for more details.

A few things to keep in mind when choosing a child care facility:

1. Security: what procedures are in place to ensure that the venue is safe? How do they determine who is allowed to fetch your child - e.g.: ID required etc.
2. Experience of the teachers / caregivers: How long have they been there? What training do they have?
3. Food: If you're not supplying your own, what is on the menu? Ask them to be specific and ask to see the food. I have heard of places stating "meat and veggies" which turns out to be vienna's and peas or worse!
4. First Aid: How many people are trained in First Aid? Are they always there? What is their procedure if your child needs more than just a bandage? Do they ask permission before giving medication?
5. Cleanliness: How often are the floors cleaned, for example. Are the kitchen and bathrooms properly sanitised? Are the rubbish bins out of reach of little hands?
6. General safety: Is the playground equipment properly maintained? Do they have trouble with monkeys passing through?
7. TV: How much TV do the kids watch? What sort of things do they watch? (e.g., only videos/DVD's, or do they watch broadcast TV?) Is there censorship based on your beliefs, e.g. Harry Potter etc.
8. Religion and Faith: Do their policies match yours? How do they deal with other belief systems? What is taught at Easter and Christmas etc. ?
9. Fees: How do they collect fees (e.g. Debit Order)? What is included in the fees? What extras are you expected to pay for or supply?
10. Notice period: How much notice do you need to give if you intend moving your child?

Above all - just look around at the place. Watch how the caregivers interact with the kids, and watch how the kids react to them. Ask for references, and chat to a few parents.