In the ACT preschool is provided free to 4 year olds by the Education Directorate and has been provided to targeted 3 year olds since 2020.

Community Based programs have offered preschool to 3 year olds through a range of services including Playschools throughout Canberra. Essentially, these are play based, educational preschool programs for 3 year olds. Some provide shorter days, half a week or two day a week options. Contact your local playschool for more details. These services are known as different things across different states such as "3 year old Kindergarten", "3 year old pre-kinder" or "3 year old preschool." The Playschool name is unique to Canberra services.

Playschools provide a brilliant transition to those who don't need a traditional child care setting, but who have a 3 year old that is thirsty to learn and socialise. Search here for Playschools in Canberra.