A new day care centre in South Maclean encourages human-animal interaction

Mrs Bezuidenhout began operating Little Beginnings Family Day Care and Miniature Horse Therapy at her property in July, although she has 17 years' worth of industry experience.

Children at the centre spend most of their time playing outside, and a key part of their regular routine is interacting with Mrs Bezuidenhout's miniature horses.

The centre owner said she had been inspired to incorporate the animals into her day care centre as she had seen first-hand the difference they could make to children and adults.

"It gives them more self-esteem and confidence," Mrs Bezuidenhout said.

"I have a child that has ADHD and I find that it helps with their anxiety stress level. It's really just a good de-stresser even for myself.

"We are outside most of the day. It's really good being in the fresh air, it's good for the kids."

Mrs Bezuidenhout said on a typical day children might feed and pet the miniature horses or read them stories, and that they also engage in horseplay.

The day care centre is also home to dachshunds which the children are able to cuddle and feed treats.

"We've got a big, round yard where my daughter works the horses," Mrs Bezuidenhout said.

"The kids love going in there and pretending to be horses, running around and neighing."

The centre owner said she was also in the process of setting up an obstacle course for the children to lead the animals through as another form of interaction.

Mrs Bezuidenhout said parents could be assured their children were in safe hands, as her centre was part of the Empowered Family Day Care network, a nationally-accredited provider.

This means eligible families can claim the Child Care Subsidy, and the company regularly checks the centre is operating in a compliant manner.

Vacancies at the centre are limited as Mrs Bezuidenhout only cares for small groups, although there are currently spaces available on Mondays as well as options for weekend care.

Mrs Bezuidenhout said small cohort sizes allowed her to engage properly with children, and nearly two-decades' worth of industry experience meant she was well versed in dealing with any issues that may arise.

"I do realise that every child is different and I try to work with every child's needs," she said.

"If there's something wrong with a child or they are acting a particular way that day, there's always an underlying factor, so I'll take that into consideration as well."

Mrs Bezuidenhout can be contacted through the Little Beginnings Family Day Care and Miniature Horse Therapy Facebook page.