Kidscape Lara
Childcare & Early Learning Centre in Lara VIC
Kidscape Lara is a nurturing long-day childcare and early learning centre in Lara, VIC, where children are respected, valued and placed first always. From nursery through to kindergarten, we create a safe, inclusive and inspiring environment where every child feels a strong sense of belonging and confidence to explore the world around them.
Our passionate educators are committed to honouring each child’s individuality, building meaningful relationships, and supporting learning with kindness, dignity and care. Guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), our play-based programs encourage curiosity, resilience and a love of learning in ways that feel natural, joyful and engaging.
Conveniently located in Lara and close to the Geelong region, Kidscape Lara is more than early learning – it’s a connected community that partners with families to support children’s wellbeing, growth and lifelong learning every step of the way.
Ready to visit Kidscape Lara?
Tours are relaxed, obligation-free and a great way to get a feel for our centre.
Why families choose Kidscape Lara
- Play-based learning guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) – experiences that feel natural, engaging and meaningful for children.
- A positive, effort-focused approach – children are supported to try new things, make discoveries, and grow in confidence through play, without pressure to “get it right”.
- Warm relationships and consistent routines – helping children feel safe, secure and confident each day.
- Regular family communication – sharing updates, photos and insights so families stay connected to their child’s learning.
- Community-connected learning – children learn through helping, giving and participating in the Lara community in simple, age-appropriate ways.
- Experienced, present leadership – a hands-on Director and educators who genuinely know and care about each child.
What’s happening at Kidscape Lara
August 2026: We celebrated Book Week with playful educator spotlights, while our little scientists explored hands-on experiments that encouraged curiosity, discovery and problem-solving.
July 2026: Children built confidence, independence and curiosity through community walks, meaningful everyday routines and thoughtful observation of the world around them.
Our Approach to Early Learning
At Kidscape Lara, every child is valued, respected and treated with dignity. Our early learning approach, guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), is caring and play-based, supporting children to feel confident as they explore, learn and grow.
- Learning through play: Engaging, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, creativity and a love of learning.
- Strong relationships: Warm, consistent routines where children feel safe, supported and respected.
- Every child matters: We celebrate each child’s unique strengths, interests and pace of development.
- Families as partners: Open, genuine communication that keeps families connected and children supported.
- Always improving: Our educators continually reflect, learn and grow to provide the best care every day.
How learning comes to life at Kidscape Lara
Learning at Kidscape Lara is brought to life through everyday experiences that nurture confidence, curiosity and positive relationships. Children explore and grow through music and movement, active outdoor play, creative expression and social learning — all woven seamlessly into our play-based curriculum.
Our enriching experiences, including Kelly Sports, Happy Feet, community walks, cooking activities and gardening, further inspire children to discover, create and connect with the world around them.
What Lara Families Say About Kidscape Lara
★★★★★
Google Review“All of the educators treat the children with care and love, and our kids often come home talking about them with positive stories.
The management team puts great effort into organising special events and making continuous improvements to the centre. Communication has always been clear and supportive, and even the centre chef welcomes families with a smile.”— Kristen B., Lara family
★★★★★
Google Review“We enrolled our son at Kidscape Lara and have been truly happy with the care he receives each day. The educators are kind, patient, and genuinely dedicated to every child’s wellbeing.
We’ve seen great progress in his communication and confidence, and we love receiving updates through the app. The team treats him like family and supports his individual needs.”— Dilpreet S., Lara family
★★★★★
Google Review“So glad we decided to join kidscape this place is so child focused my daughter is so happy”
— Kayla S., Lara family
Programs Offered at Kidscape Lara
Nursery (0–2 years)
Learning at this age happens through sensory exploration, responsive relationships and consistent routines.
- Responsive caregiving and predictable daily routines.
- Sensory-rich play using textures, sounds, light and water.
- Simple songs, stories and naming everyday objects.
- Modelling early language and positive social interactions.
Toddlers (2–3 years)
This stage supports growing independence, language development and social awareness.
- Encouraging choice, independence and self-help skills.
- Open-ended play materials such as blocks, sand, water and art.
- Language development through conversation and songs and storytelling.
- Guided social interactions and emotional expression.
Kindergarten (3–5 years)
This stage focuses on building strong foundations for school and life.
- Structured and unstructured play-based learning.
- Early literacy and numeracy experiences.
- Storytelling, dramatic play and creative arts.
- Cooperative group experiences to build social skills.
Meet the Team at Kidscape Lara
Kylie Naismith
Centre Director – Kidscape Lara
About Me
I’m a passionate advocate for children’s rights, dignity, and safety and a big believer that childhood should be filled with respect, curiosity, and a whole lot of fun. Early childhood education isn’t just my job; it’s what I genuinely love doing, and I’ve been in the profession for well over 10 years.
As a hands-on Director, I’m not someone who stays behind a desk. You’ll usually find me chatting with children, listening to their thoughts (which are always insightful), and making sure their voices are heard in everything we do. I believe children deserve to be taken seriously even when they’re telling you about dinosaurs, superheroes, or why today must be pajama day.
Behind the scenes, the children and I are involved in all parts of centre life from recruitment and advertising to centre tours, rostering, and supporting our educators. I like to stay connected to every moving part because relationships are the most fundamental part of LIFE and the best environments are built when people feel respected seen, supported, and valued.
My goal is simple: to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming space where children can be children, families feel confident and included, and educators feel proud of the important work they do every day.
Because relationships are the most fundamental part of life.
— Centre Director, Kidscape Lara
Connected to the Lara Community
At Kidscape Lara, we love being part of the vibrant Lara community. We cherish strong connections with local families and schools, creating opportunities for parents to be involved in their children’s learning journey.
We celebrate every milestone and support smooth transitions into school. Beyond the classroom, we proudly sponsor local sports teams and enjoy joining in community events — because being part of Lara means growing, learning, and thriving together.
Childcare FAQs for Lara Families
What ages do you cater for?
We welcome children from nursery through to kindergarten.
How do I book a tour?
Call 03 5282 2575 or join our waitlist below.
Where are you located?
69–71 Buckingham Street, Lara VIC 3212
Join Our Waitlist
Contact Kidscape Lara
Address
69–71 Buckingham Street, Lara VIC 3212
