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About ShellyTots

A family-owned centre, part of St Ives for 20 years

Childcare is an integral part of family life, and our centre is like a big family. At the heart of every family is the safety, security and growth of its children, just as it is at ShellyTots.

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How ShellyTots began

“I started ShellyTots in 2006, believing that a child’s first educational experience should feel like a second home. I wanted to create a small, nurturing environment where children are cared for by familiar faces, surrounded by consistency, warmth and genuine connection. Almost 20 years later, I believe in this more than ever.”

Michelle Rybko, Director and founder

Every family that walks through our doors places their trust in us. Our commitment is that every child at ShellyTots receives the highest quality care and education, feels safe, and is supported to feel confident and capable.

The colourful ShellyTots name painted among green leaves along the centre’s outside wall
ShellyTots in the early days

What we believe

  • Inclusive

    We celebrate every child, family and culture. Different languages, abilities, identities and traditions enrich our community, and every child is seen, respected and valued.

  • Respectful

    We teach children to appreciate differences and treat others with kindness, in a space where everyone belongs and every voice is heard.

  • Collaborative

    We work closely with families, educators, service providers and our community to support each child’s growth.

Our philosophy is our promise

Families are a child’s first and most influential teachers, so we build genuine partnerships based on respect and open communication. We welcome parents, grandparents, step-parents, foster parents and siblings into a circle of care and trust.

Children learn and thrive when they feel safe, valued and confident, so we create a warm space where each child can explore and grow at their own pace.

  • We celebrate each child

    Their unique strengths and interests.

  • We nurture a love of learning

    Through creativity, problem solving and self-expression.

  • We build independence

    Resilience and joy, together with families.

Meet the director

I’ve worked with children for over 30 years, and education has always been my passion. I studied Early Childhood Education in South Africa before requalifying in Australia, and as a mother of three, I understand how important those early years are.

Before opening ShellyTots in 2006, I worked in a variety of childcare centres, learning from each experience and shaping my own vision of what early childhood care should be.

I also recognise the importance of building a strong team culture where educators can grow, feel supported and become part of the ShellyTots family.

Michelle Rybko, Director and founder
Michelle Rybko, Director of ShellyTots
Michelle RybkoOwner, director and educator

Our educators

Our team brings experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to the centre. Their program follows the Early Years Learning Framework, and every educator takes part in ongoing professional development.

Meeting the National Quality Standard in all seven quality areas

ShellyTots is assessed by the NSW Department of Education against the National Quality Standard. Our service approval number is SE-00008977.

Safe, supported and included

We work with inclusion services to support children with diverse needs, and every family can count on:

  • Child safe practices in every room
  • Working With Children Checks for all educators
  • Current first aid training
  • Allergy management plans for children who need them

Meet us in person

We can’t wait to meet your little one and share their learning journey.

Book a tourCall (02) 9988 4299