At Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure, we understand that choosing the right early learning environment is a deeply personal decision—one that’s not just about education, but about connection, trust, and a sense of belonging.
That’s why we offer Stay and Play sessions—a no-cost, no-obligation way for families to experience life inside our centre before deciding on enrolment. More than just a visit, a Stay and Play is an opportunity for families to settle in, connect with our educators, and get a sense of what a day at Sanctuary really feels like.
Whether you’re feeling unsure about your child’s readiness or simply want a deeper look into our approach to early learning, a Stay and Play is your gentle invitation to come and belong—at your own pace.
What is a stay and play session?
A Stay and Play session is exactly what it sounds like: a chance for you and your child to spend time in one of our centres, participating in real experiences, meeting our team, and connecting with the environment. It’s not a formal tour (though we’re always happy to show you around!). Instead, it’s a relaxed, child-led visit where your little one can explore, play, and feel a sense of comfort.
Families are welcomed into our learning spaces to enjoy everything from sensory play and music, to quiet reading corners, construction areas, and outdoor adventures. During this time, you’ll be able to chat with educators, ask questions, and watch how your child engages in a new space.
There’s no pressure to enrol. Just time to breathe, explore, and discover.
Why Families Love to Stay and Play
We hear time and time again that our Stay and Play sessions provide an immense sense of relief to families—especially those who are new to child care or feeling uncertain about the transition.
Here are some of the reasons our families value the experience:
1. Builds Trust and Familiarity
One of the most important aspects of early learning is the relationship between the child, the family, and the educator. Trust takes time—and Stay and Play sessions give families the opportunity to build it naturally.
Children can familiarise themselves with the space and get to know the faces they’ll see every day, while parents can observe and feel confident in the environment. These early moments lay the foundation for a secure, positive start to care.
2. Supports Smooth Transitions
Children who have participated in a Stay and Play session often transition more smoothly when they start formally attending. That’s because the space, routines, and people aren’t completely new—they’ve already had a positive experience to draw from.
For families, this can ease anxiety, reduce tears at drop-off, and create a feeling of certainty that this is the right place for their child.
3. Allows for Real Connection
Sanctuary is proud of our strong educator-child relationships and genuine family partnerships. Stay and Plays allow you to see these relationships begin to bloom in real-time.
It’s a wonderful way to begin building rapport with the people who may one day play a central role in your child’s growth and development.
4. Experience Our Learning Philosophy in Action
At Sanctuary, our educational programs are inspired by the unique voices of the children in our care. We follow a play-based, child-led approach that respects each child’s identity, culture, and pace of learning.
During your Stay and Play session, you’ll see how we tailor experiences to suit children’s individual interests and needs, and how our environments are intentionally designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and curiosity.
5. No Cost. No Pressure. Just Possibility.
Perhaps one of the most unique things about Sanctuary’s Stay and Play sessions is that there is absolutely no expectation to enrol afterwards.
We believe that families should feel confident and empowered when choosing a care environment—and that includes having the time and space to explore without pressure. Whether you’re ready to move forward straight away or want to come back again later, we’ll support you.
What should you expect
When you arrive, you’ll be warmly welcomed by one of our Leadership Team members who will guide you into the room that suits your child’s age. From there, you and your child can:
Engage in play experiences that align with your child’s interests
Explore the learning environment indoors and outdoors
Observe routines like group time, mealtimes, or quiet moments
Speak with educators about learning programs, routines, or any questions you have.
Your child may choose to jump straight into play or stick close to you—either is absolutely fine. Our educators are skilled at reading cues and supporting children to feel comfortable in their own time.
There’s no ‘right’ way to participate. The goal is to help your family feel what Sanctuary is all about—nurturing relationships, inspiring learning, and belonging.
The first step in a bigger adventure
Many families see their child’s Stay and Play session as the first step in a much bigger adventure—one that leads to friendships, confidence, learning, and growth.
When your child begins their transition into care after attending a Stay and Play, they do so with greater confidence and connection. And when you enrol, you’ll know that your decision was made with your heart, your head, and the gift of lived experience.
How to book in?
Booking your session is easy. Simply contact your local Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure centre by phone or email. Our team will work with you to find a time that suits your schedule.
And remember, there’s no cost and no commitment—just the beginning of a relationship built on care, trust, and a shared commitment to your child’s development.
Because at Sanctuary, we don’t just enrol children. We welcome families.
