A new childcare model nurturing imaginations supporting artists

As a professionally-trained actor, I believe that developing a sense of awe, wonder and curiosity is one of the most precious gifts a parent can give a child.

That was the inspiration behind Creative Carers: a childcare agency that focuses on imaginative play by creating a connection between artists, creative minds and children.

Our Carers are sought out by national and international musicians, and actors filming in Melbourne to care for their children whilst on stage and set. With their own stage and screen credits from productions like Frozen The Musical, Home and Away, Neighbours, and Annie, our Carers understand the value of imagination in a child’s development.

We know that exploring the imagination is an important part of a child’s development, so we’re proud to offer a model that supports both artists and parents in fostering creative care.

Each Carer is carefully chosen and vetted, with a Working With Children Check, Police Check, 3+ years experience working with children and most with training in First Aid.

Veronica Thomas

Founder, Creative Carers

“I told my teddy a joke, but he didn’t laugh. He must be sleepy!”

“I’ve only got space for one more thing at the top in my tummy station. I might have to go to the toilet. There is a sign that says “ALL FULL” and then when my tummy is full it says “ALL FULL.” I have space for breakfast in the morning but I will have to wait a long time.”

“Welcome to the show! Here is the Wall Of Fame. If you sit very still and listen, my drawings will start moving. I hope you enjoy the show.”

Introducing Creative Carers

Childcare that inspires creativity

We help your child thrive during their early years with Carers who encourage curiosity, wonder and joy, through creative activities, games and experiences.

Easy and stress-free

Say goodbye to schedule conflicts and last-minute cancellations. Simply contact us and we’ll connect you with a carefully-vetted Creative Carer who aligns with your family and lifestyle.

Passionate about play

Choose from professional artists, creatives and educators. Carers plan each play session with fun activities that stimulate your child’s imagination and help them learn new skills.

* While Adventuring

You will receive updates and photos from your Carer via a private messaging system while your child is adventuring. Your Carer will share a short recap after each session, with highlights and memorable moments.

“Do not ask your children to strive for extraordinary lives. Such striving may seem admirable. But it is the way of foolishness. Help them instead to find the wonder and the marvel of an ordinary life. Show them the joy of tasting tomatoes, apples and pears. Show them how to cry when pets and people die. Show them the infinite pleasure in the touch of a hand and make the ordinary come alive for them. The extraordinary will take care of itself.”

William Martin

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world”

Albert Einstein

“Look for the bare necessities, the simple bear necessities Forget about your worries and your strife. I mean the bare necessities, old mother nature’s recipes that bring the bare necessities of life”

‘Baloo’
The Jungle book

What exactly is a “Creative Carer”?

Childcare should be more than just minding your child and passing the time. Your child’s day will be filled with age-appropriate activities that develop their confidence, imagination and help them to establish new skills.

Acting

Dance

Creative Writing

Arts & Crafts

Music

Baking

Zoos & Museums

Parks & Playgrounds

Nature Discovery

What to expect from your Creative Carers

Artists or Creatively-minded Carers
who are passionate about play

All have undergone a
Working With Children Check

All have undergone
a Police Check

All have undergone
a Background Check

With formal certifications
or a minimum of 3-years
experience working with children

Many come from diverse language
or cultural backgrounds

Many have experience working with
people with disabilities

Little Artists At Work

What parents have said about Creative Carers

Our boys love [Carer]. She always comes with activities and ideas to share with them. They love it!

✏️ - Mill Park, Melbourne

It was so lovely to come home to the sound of the boys singing along with [carer] and her ukulele.

✏️ - Southbank, Melbourne

It has been truly memorable to hear [child] laughing so genuinely with [carer]. It makes me feel so happy knowing they have formed such a secure bond.

✏️ - St Kilda East, Melbourne

[Carer] is amazing with our boys. They really look forward to their Tuesday with her each week. At the end of a day with her, they excitedly return home from the creek and parks telling me all about their adventures. It is such a relief knowing that we can leave our boys in such good care.

✏️ - Northcote, Melbourne

I would highly recommend Creative Carers. [Carer] sits down and really listens to the kids, she shows interest in their drawings and activities, and always brings lot of fun games and ideas to each session. She takes them out for walks, to the park or the beach. When I come home the house is super tidy and in order, and the kids are always happy and having fun.

✏️ - Black Rock, Melbourne

Our carer always brings music, love, stories and games to our boy's lives. We are forever grateful for the incredible impact she has had on them.

✏️ - Fitzroy, Melbourne

Creative Carer members get...

Access to our exceptional carers
Exclusive discounts for selected local business, events and attractions
Educational resources on a wide range of topics, including: body image, mental health, and well-being
Extensive lists of locations and outing ideas around Melbourne
Activities and games to nurture development

How does Creative Carers work?

Creative Carers makes it easy and stress-free to connect with passionate, artistic Carers who will nurture your child’s imagination and curiosity.

The first step is to schedule a brief chat to ensure we’re able to meet you needs.

If we both agree it’s a fit, we’ll invite you to join the Creative Carers community.

Get in
touch

Join the
community

Match with
suitable carers

Book your first session

We'll take care
of the rest

Ready to find out more?

Let's Get Started

Our Promise to You

We are committed to making your life easier and providing a fun and engaging experience for your child(ren).

We understand the trust you place in us, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our service is backed by these four promises:

Safety

We prioritise the safety of your children above all else. Creative Carers are thoroughly vetted to ensure they meet our high standards of safety and care.

Reliability

We understand that reliable care is essential for your peace of mind. We guarantee to arrive on time, be fully prepared for the job, and follow your instructions.

Communication

We believe in open and honest communication. We guarantee that we will keep you informed about your child’s care and any issues that arise.

Professionalism

We guarantee that you, your family, and your home will be treated with the utmost respect and professionalism at all times.

Meet the Team

Hi, I’m Veronica

I’ve been performing since the age of 7, with a background in music, dance, and film/TV and I trained at the Victorian College of the Arts.

Another great love of mine is working with kids – I love how curious, honest, and present they are. I’ve worked as a nanny, dance teacher, acting coach, and most recently as a presenter at The Butterfly Foundation, facilitating workshops for kids to support healthy body image and mind.

Since becoming a mum, I understand things a little differently now. I know first-hand what it means to watch your child explore the world, and how much it helps to have someone in your corner who gets it. That’s the presence I try to bring to every family I work with – steady, supportive, and genuinely on their side.

Confession: I still believe the floor is lava sometimes

Hi, I’m Vicki-lee!

I’ve never walked a linear path. I’ve tried on many hats, but the constant has always been people, building connections, finding the magic in them and aspiring to leave things better than I found them. I love anything weird and silly, and I believe creativity is a way of living, that you should never stop playing no matter how old you get.

In the past I worked as a nanny and integration aide while studying to become a teacher. I loved forming special bonds with children and always encouraging them that it’s ok to be different. I’m a fairy godmother at heart, creating nurturing spaces so others can thrive, helping them see that they too hold the key to unlock worlds of possibility.

These days I’m the Success Manager at Creative Carers, the one behind the paperwork, systems and compliance. The safety, care and joy of children matters to me deeply, and I love that it can be woven right through creative care. Kurt Vonnegut said it best: “Practicing an art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven’s sake.” So here’s to creating a community of care where we help little and big souls flourish.

Confession: I still make wishes on dandelions

Our Carers are sought out by national and international musicians, and actors filming in Melbourne to care for their children …

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions. If your question is not answered below, please reach out to us for a speedy reply.

Q.Will I have the same carer every time?

It’s fantastic when a child and Carer create a close bond, so we encourage consistency with carers. However, if your carer is unavailable on a time that you request, rest assured there will be another wonderful carer to fill their place.

Q.What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that plans can change and that you may no longer require your carer. We ask that cancellations be made within 48 hours of the booking, otherwise you will be charged 50% of the shift fee to make up for your carers committed time.

Q.What checks do your Carers have?

All our Carers are thoroughly vetted with a current Working With Children Check, Police Check, at least three years of childcare experience, and most with first aid training.

Q.How much does Creative Carers cost?

There are two parts to our service:

1. Carer’s Hourly Rate: Paid directly to your Carer (typically ranging from $33 to $45 per hour).

2. Monthly Membership Fee: Paid to Creative Carers, based on the number of hours you require each month. (Find out more.)

Your monthly membership gives you access to a range of benefits, including:

Fully-vetted and qualified carers
Administrative support
Booking assistance
Unlimited online ‘meet-and-greet’ sessions
Carer Guarantee
24/7 support from Veronica
A variety of activities and reading materials for parents and children
.

For ad hoc care, no membership is required. We simply charge a $35 per-session booking fee.

Q.What are the Carers rates?

Our Carers rates start from $33-$45/hour and vary depending on the Carer’s experience, age and qualifications, as well as the number of children in their care.

Your Carer receives 100% of this hourly rate. This is paid directly to Carers after each session.

Q.Can I receive updates on my child during their play session?

Yes! We encourage you to ask for as many (or as few) updates as you like. Each carer has signed a privacy agreement where all photos taken during their session are deleted and never shared with anyone other than yourself.

Q.What type of sessions do you offer?

Our Carers provide a range of flexible session types to meet your requirements, including:

Regular, ongoing care
Casual care
Overnight care / special events
Weddings / group packages

Stress-Free Booking Guarantee

If we are unable to find you a Creative Carer and you have given us at least 7 days notice of your intended booking…
Or if your Creative Carer needs to cancel within 24 hours and we are unable to find you a suitable replacement…

…we will waive the booking fee for your next casual session. Or if you are on a membership, you’ll receive one week free.

Childcare by Artists & Creatives to nurture your child’s curious mind