What do you do when the school day has finished, but your working day hasn't? How do you keep your child busy during the holidays? The answer for many working parents of school aged children is Out of School Hours Care (OOSH). OOSH is supervised care and recreation for primary school-age children: OOSH care is usually associated with schools
and caters to primary school children. Most OOSH services are operated by community and private organisations and the government's program is known as Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) or Vacation Care (VC). Typical hours for OOSH services are: Costs
of OOSH care vary, but typical fees range from $20 to $40 per session for before and after school care and anything from $60 plus for vacation care programs. There may also be additional charges such as fees for: Child care subsidies to reduce the cost of OOSH care are available for eligible families using approved centres. Read more about
The Single Child Care Subsidy here. Out Of School Hours care emphasises play, social interaction and recreation. Activities are organised in small and large groups, or children may choose quiet time by themselves (eg to read and do homework). Some typical activities include: When you are choosing OOSH services, think about: You should also consider your child's needs and interests: If you missed out in a spot in your school’s OOSH service then you may like to consider these options: Out of School Hours care lets your child have fun in a relaxed and safe environment. Many school-aged children enjoy having time to hang out with their friends after hours and most enjoy the range of activities on offer. Use our before and after school care search to find OOSH services and our
vacation care search to find care in your local area.How much does before and after school care cost?
What will my child do at OOSH care?
How do I choose the right service for my child?
Other options for OOSH care:
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Managing complaints with OOSH care
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With a shortage of outside school hours care services in some areas, learn how to choose the best outside school hours care for your child and family.
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