As a man I was always dubious about children not being 'at home with Mum' but our son goes twice a week and learns so much there which complements our teaching at home. As he's an only child it also helps having social interaction with other kids (in terms of learning to share, not playing rough etc) and the carers are fantastic. I can't compare it to other centres but if our child is happy, learning, well fed and looks forward to his 2 days 'at school' then they're clearly doing something right!

Approximate cost: $70

We had to put our baby in daycare at 10 months of age when I had an accident and couldn't care for him. Magic circle are competitively priced and meet all the normal nutrition and educational requirements but most importantly, the girls caring for him in the babies room are really friendly and patient. He was very unhappy about being left at first but they have helped him settle in and all the carers working there seem happy to be at work. I think they do after school care if needed.

Approximate cost: $70