Our child attended Lullaby Early Learning Centre (now Smartland Boutique Early Learning Varsity Lakes) for approximately 2.5 years. For the vast majority of that time, we were happy with the care she received and developed positive relationships with many of the educators.<br><br>Unfortunately, our experience changed considerably during the final months of her attendance, ultimately leading us to withdraw her from the service.<br><br>Over a period of approximately seven weeks, we experienced three separate incidents involving our child being collected without underwear following toileting. We raised concerns regarding the supervision of our child during bathroom routines.<br><br>Following our complaints, the centre conducted an internal investigation. In written correspondence, the approved provider acknowledged that our initial concern had not been escalated to management and identified that existing supervision and toileting procedures had not been reinforced during afternoon routines. The centre subsequently outlined a range of corrective actions, including strengthening bathroom supervision, reviewing procedures and introducing additional monitoring.<br><br>While we appreciated that management investigated our concerns and outlined corrective measures, our interactions with the new owner and approved provider ultimately compounded our concerns rather than restoring our confidence. We found these interactions particularly disappointing and were left feeling that our concerns were not being approached in the collaborative, understanding and supportive manner we had hoped for, particularly given that they related to the wellbeing of our young child.<br><br>We subsequently referred the matter to the Queensland Department of Education. Following an investigation and internal review, the Department determined there was insufficient evidence to substantiate a breach of the applicable legislation. While we acknowledge this finding, it does not change our personal experience, the concerns we raised or the reasons behind our decision to withdraw our child.<br><br>After 2.5 years with the centre, this was an incredibly disappointing way for our family’s relationship with the service to end. We had placed considerable trust in the centre and its educators over that time, which made the experience particularly difficult. Prior to this period and series of events we had been firm advocates for the centre.<br><br>We genuinely appreciate the many educators who cared for our daughter throughout those years and wish them all the best. Our concerns relate specifically to the incidents experienced during the final period of her attendance and the subsequent handling of those concerns.<br><br>Every family’s experience will be different, but we believe it is important to share ours openly and factually so that other parents can make their own informed decisions.