Choosing childcare
Choosing the most appropriate kind of early years care and education is a big step for you and your child. There is a wide range of choices available in most areas, from full nursery daycare and pre-school settings to parent and toddler groups as well as childminders. Every child and family is different, so the type of setting you choose will depend on your own family circumstances and the specific needs of your child. Think carefully about your options and then decide what’s best for you.
What are your options?
Baby and toddler groups
Baby and toddler groups (also known as “Stay and Play”) are usually for children aged nine months to two-and-a-half years old. These groups give you the chance to meet other parents in an informal atmosphere. They enable your child to play with other children and experience a wide range of play activities. You can stay with your child during the session. The groups are often run by parents for parents, and usually meet once or twice a week.
Day nurseries
Day nurseries are for children from six weeks old until school age and offer full-time or part-time care. They may be run by the council, members of the community, your workplace or privately. Day nurseries are usually open 8.00am-7.00pm on weekdays and primarily cater for the needs of working parents.
Childminders
Childminders are based in their own homes and provide childcare for small groups of children. They are usually self-employed and decide which hours they work.
Pre-schools
Pre-schools and playgroups are usually organised by community or voluntary groups. They may offer full day-care or specific sessions, such as 9.30am-12.30pm. Many have extra services such as breakfast clubs, lunch clubs and holiday play schemes.
How to choose a setting
Make a shortlist of two or three settings in your area and then plan a visit to each. The staff should be happy to show you around and discuss their policies with you. Before you visit, it’s worth checking the setting’s Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education) report. Childcare providers must be registered with Ofsted, who regularly inspect the settings to make sure that they meet national standards covering health and safety, equipment and quality of care. Visit www.ofsted.gov.uk to download reports for specific childcare providers.
Visiting the setting
Remember to check these points when visiting:
- what training and experience do the carers have?
- does the setting feel welcoming and nurturing?
- is there enough space, including an outdoor play area?
- are parents welcomed and given information?
- are staff joining in and showing affection to the children?
- are the children happy and absorbed in activities?
- is a range of activities available?
- what happens in case of accidents and emergencies?
- are the toilets and basins clean and child-sized?
- is the equipment of a high standard?
- do displays show different cultures in a positive way?
- are facilities available for changing nappies and potty training?
- are the meals and snacks healthy and nutritious?
- has the setting achieved a quality assurance certificate?
Next steps
Once you have chosen the type of childcare most suitable for your family, it will soon be time to make the big step! Your child will need time to settle in as they get to know the staff and other children, and adjust to the new routine. You will be encouraged to stay with your child at first so that they can gradually be introduced to the group's activities. By working closely with the staff, you can help your child to be comfortable, happy and secure.