Under4s

Under4s is a term used to describe children who are under the age of four. In practice, it covers infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children who have not yet entered compulsory primary education. The upper age limit for this group varies by country and policy; some definitions include part of the fourth year, while others cap the category at age three.

Settings for under4s include nurseries, daycare centers, family child care, and early years preschools. The main aim of these environments is to provide safe supervision and support development across physical, language, cognitive, and social-emotional domains through play-based activities and daily routines.

Programs emphasize play, storytelling, song, outdoor play, and simple early literacy and numeracy experiences. Care practices focus on responsive caregiving, consistent routines, nutrition, sleep, hygiene, and inclusive approaches that accommodate children with diverse needs or disabilities.

Regulation and access: Providers are usually subject to licensing, inspections, and quality standards that vary by jurisdiction. Staffing requirements, such as adult-to-child ratios and professional qualifications, are set to ensure safety. Parents choose providers based on location, hours, cost, accreditation, and the availability of subsidies or funded places.

Impact and transitions: The under4s period is foundational for later learning and well-being, with early experiences shaping language development, social skills, and resilience. Effective communication among parents, caregivers, educators, and policymakers supports orderly transitions into preschool and early primary education.