Your childcare choices

Parenting |

Many parents worry about going back to work and choosing the right childcare for them and their family.

There are more options available than ever before so you should be able to find a suitable arrangement which fits within your budget. Please feel free to read the options below or go straight to your chosen child care choice by clicking one of the links listed below.

State Nurseries
Find out what there is in your area, and visit those you are interested in. There may not be as many facilities available but paying doesn’t necessarily mean the quality of care is better, or more suited to your child’s needs. Talk to parents who already have children there.

Childminders
Always make sure that they are registered. Find out how many children they look after, and take your child to meet them. Registered childminders are generally self-employed and usually work in their own homes. Childminders who care for children under the age of 8 are required, by law, to be registered and inspected by Ofsted in England or in Wales by the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales . All childminders take introductory training and most also hold a relevant qualification. All registered childminders should have public liability insurance, a health check, and an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau disclosure, and a valid first-aid certificate for people who work with children.
When looking for a childminder you will need to contact your local Children’s Information Service. There is one for every local authority and they have all the information you will need including an up to date list of registered childminders. Beware that when your minder is ill or away on holiday you will need to find alternative arrangements.

Private nurseries
These vary in cost and it’s worth taking a look around and seeing which one is for you. Some can be big nurseries and others are smaller. Many offer a discount if more than one child attends. Be aware that there can be hidden costs. Check if food is included in the price. Many have music or dance lessons, Do you pay more for these? Many nurseries will charge you for Bank Holidays even though they are closed and in many you will still be expected to pay if your child is off due to sickness. Ask how many children are in the unit at any one time, Do staff move around or will your child have the same carers every day. Look to see if there is a playground. If you are interested in a specific nursery try and turn up unannounced - if you book a meeting they will have time to prepare the nursery so you see it in its best possible light!

Nanny
A nanny works in a family’s home, caring for their child or children. Some nannies live in, others come to work daily, and others work for two or more families. Unlike childminders, nannies do not have to be registered and inspected. Take your time interviewing, and think about paying for a trial half day. This can prove to be a very expensive option.

Creche
Some workplaces provide a creche for their staff.

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For more information relating to childcare options and cost please visit daycaretrust.org.uk. Daycare Trust is a national childcare charity.