At Open Arms we strive to create a relaxed, trusting, and caring atmosphere where children are encouraged to pursue their own interests, develop friendships, and grow in confidence, independence, and respect for themselves and others.
Our staff team is made up of diverse and creative people with a passion for teaching, a penchant for learning and an interest for building a strong community with the families at the centre. When staff and parents work together to help create a consistent home to Centre transition for the children, the whole family benefits.
It is this philosophy and our environment that makes our staff want to stay and grow, helping us maintain low turnover for a more consistent environment for children and families. Our staff team is qualified both by experience and education in the care of infants, toddlers and preschoolers. They have a fundamental respect for, and interest in, the development of young children.
Our staff team is also prepared to support and partner with parents by answering questions concerning their children’s needs, growth, and development on all levels. Parents receive on-going communications from the staff and usually connect in quick face-to-face check-ins, through learning-stories, and other means. However, parents and staff can also connect via centre-wide events, community volunteering and other social opportunities.
Our History and Background
In late 2010, the Birdwood Parks and Sporting Association approached the Lutheran Schools Association about operating the child care centre on their grounds. The LSA then contacted Holy Cross Church in Birdwood to assist them in this project. A team from LSA and the church then researched the viability and got expressions of interest from the community, and the decision was made to establish the centre. After a short few months, on January 31st, 2011, Open Arms Community Child Care Centre was opened to the families of the community.
The centre operates as an individual entity from the church, but receives advice & support from the Lutheran Education South Australia Northern Territory and Western Australia (formerly Lutheran Schools Association) as a parent body, and from Birdwood Lutheran Church as its members form the membership of the centre under its constitution.
Our Opening Hours
Open Arms Community Child Care Centre is conveniently open from 6:30am until 6:30pm Monday to Friday. We are closed on Public Holidays, but we are ‘Open’ every week of the year.
Our Location
You can find us at 1070 Torrens Valley Road, Birdwood, South Australia, 5234