Thrive Kids is the new name for Port Stephens Council’s childcare services, and has been developed to bring all of the services under the one name.

Council’s Children’s Services Coordinator Lynette Fitz Henry says it was time for a change.

“We’ve been operating Children’s Services since 1982, delivering quality childcare to the community of Port Stephens,” Ms Fitz Henry said.

“But we found that our brand wasn’t having cut-through with our parents, carers, teachers and children. As part of a review, we looked into how we could promote our services better to our community.

“Council developed a new brand in-house that would bring together all of our services. When people see Thrive Kids, they’ll know that’s quality childcare services offered by Port Stephens Council.”

Ms Fitz Henry says Thrive Kids offers a range of services for children aged up to 12, including Out Of School Hours (OOSH), Family Day Care and Mobile Preschool.

“OOSH offers quality care for children before and after school — it’s really designed for working families. We’re excited to now be operating OOSH at 7 locations across Port Stephens, with our newest centre at Fern Bay Public School.

“The Mobile Preschool is a unique concept — we take the van out to 5 different venues in Port Stephens to help children get ready to start school.

“Family Day Care is a family-focused style of childcare. The educators provide care in their own homes, so it’s for families who like a unique and small environment for their child. We currently support 75 educators in providing professional education and care for children ranging from birth to 13 years,” she said.

To learn more about Thrive Kids and the services we provide, visit portstephens.nsw.gov.au/thrivekids