Numdaji Kwei

Zade has been accepted at Numdaji Kwei after being on the waiting list for 4 months. It is a non-profit community based child care centre at RMIT East Campus. Initially I intended to send Zade there next year, but I was told that I might lose the spot if I didn't take it now. The fee is AUD 38 for half a day, AUD 59 for full day and AUD 250for a week. I didn't really want to send Zade there just yet because I think his far too young, but I desperately need to secure the place for next year. So I decided to go ahead and booked for half a day each Monday.

We started with a three day orientation. On the first day Zade and I was shown around the centre and met all the staff. We were introduced to the carers in the babies room where Zade will be placed. Leigh Ann and Rose were very nice and friendly. On the second a day, I stayed with Zade for lunch. I requested halal food for Zade, and there wasn't any problem as they provide halal food for other muslim children there as well. They try to cater for different types of dietery requirements. On the last day, I left Zade for an hour and waited in the staff lounge. The orientation went well.

However, when I left him for his first day, he cried and clinged to me. It was just so heartbreaking. He was still crying on and off when I called an hour later. I left him there for only a few hours. When I came back to pick him up he just cried out for me. I'm really sorry Zade. I hope it will get better in time.


Zade still sleepy


First day of orientation


Numdaji Kwei building


Going in the gate


Numdaji Kwei


Rose and Leigh Ann


Zade after the 1st day on his own at Numdaji Kwei