Types of childcare

• Childminders
• Day nurseries
• Out of school clubs
• Nursery schools
• Parent and toddler groups
• Pre-schools (playgroups)

Once families have decided which type of care is likely to suit them best, they can search the visit the Family Information Directory webpage to see what's available in their area or ring the Family Information Service on 01432 261681.

Childminders

A childminder is a person who is paid to look after one or more children under the age of 12 for more than a total of two hours a day in domestic premises (not the child's own home). All childminders are registered with Ofsted.

Many childminders offer flexible childcare arrangements. Childminders can be a good option for those wishing their child to be looked after in a home environment or for those who have children of different ages and want them cared for together. Childminders are paid at a rate negotiated directly with the parent/carer.

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Day nurseries

Day nurseries can provide care and education for children from six weeks to five years of age, although this varies from nursery to nursery.

Nurseries can be private businesses, voluntary (run by a national voluntary organisation) or community day nurseries (set up by a local community group). All day nurseries are registered with Ofsted.

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Out of school clubs and holiday clubs

Often called breakfast clubs and after school clubs, these offer supervised play and care for school aged children before and after school hours.

Some clubs operate during school holidays. Most will offer a programme of structured activity that takes into account the age of the children and can offer facilities for homework support. Many of these clubs are registered with Ofsted.

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Local authority nursery schools

Children can attend state nurseries in the September after their third birthday. These are linked to primary schools.

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Parent and toddler groups

Parents and toddler groups provide an excellent opportunity for parents and children to socialise. They do not have to be registered with Ofsted because parents and carers stay with the children. This also means that children can attend from any age.

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Pre-schools (playgroups)

These provide an opportunity for children to socialise, explore and learn in a friendly and safe environment. Most children start pre-school at around two and a half years of age. The majority of pre-schools offer sessional daycare (up to four hours per session) and not necessarily five days a week. Pre-schools have to be registered with Ofsted.

There are other types of childcare available such as nannies and crèches. For more information on childcare options please contact the Family Information Service on 01432 261681.

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