When should I start looking into childcare options?
If you plan to go back to work after the birth of your baby, you'll probably begin thinking about childcare options almost as soon as you begin thinking about your birth plan or decorating the nursery. Finding childcare can be one of the most difficult aspects of going back to work. You have to find something suitable for your child which fits in with your work patterns, is affordable, in your area and in which you have absolute confidence. If you have disabled children, you will need to take more time to find specialised childcare and be prepared to pay special rates.
Many nurseries and childminders have long waiting lists, so the sooner you start looking into options, the better. You may find it helpful to draw up a “checklist” which you can take with you on visits to potential nurseries, or when interviewing nannies and childminders. This will help you cover all the necessary points in interviews, and will serve to jog your memory afterwards when making your final decision.
Factors to consider when choosing childcare
- Level and type of care, full-time or part-time, group or individual, rotating or consistent carer
- Special requirements such as disability or diet
- Your work hours, consistent or shift work, early morning or late evenings
- Extra requirements such as babysitting or help with the housework
- Availability in your area
- Your budget
- Transportation
- Availability of space in your home
- Registered or unregistered childcare. You can get help with childcare costs through Tax Credits only for registered or approved care. The new “Childcare Approval Scheme” or “light touch” registration means that some childcare in your home can now be approved and therefore costs can be claimed via tax credits or vouchers.
- Emergencies – think about what contingency plans you could make in case your child or carer is ill. You do have certain rights to time off for dependants in an emergency, but you should consider other options too, such as locally-based grandparents.
Types of Childcare
- Informal childcare, such as family and friends – see our section on Family providing childcare
- Out of home childcare, such as childminders and nurseries – see our sections on Childminders and Nurseries
- In home childcare, such as nannies and au pairs – see our sections on Nannies and Au pairs
Paying for childcare
Childcare can be expensive, and costs can vary considerably depending on the type of care you are looking for and where you are in the country. However, there are ways of getting help to pay for childcare, depending on the age of your child and your circumstances, such as:
- tax credits
- direct payments
- nursery education grants
- childcare vouchers and workplace schemes
- new deal for lone parents
For more information on help with paying for childcare, see our section on Working families tax credit and other benefits for parents.
If you are looking for nurseries in Cannock and nurseries in Lichfield
Nurseries - what to expect
Many parents opt for a nursery because they like the idea of a team of qualified people caring for their child. Added to this are the benefits that can come from a child learning and playing in a structured environment, and socialising with other children.
Advantages of a nursery:
* Provides a structured learning and play environment for children
* Your child will be looked after by qualified staff – by law, at least 50 per cent of a nursery’s staff must be trained in early childhood education
* Usually open all year round with no holidays except national holidays
* Reliable childcare option, as staff can provide cover if one member is off sick
* All nurseries must be inspected regularly by Ofsted
* Nursery staff work together as a team;
* Provides an opportunity for your child to mix with other children and develop social skills
* Offers you an opportunity to meet other working parents.
Disadvantages of a nursery
* No one-to-one care, unlike with a nanny or an au pair, and may not be the best option for very young babies
* Higher possibility of your child catching colds and other infectious diseases
How to find a good nursery
Many parents find their child’s nursery through personal recommendation, but bear in mind that what is ideal for one family may not necessarily suit you. Check out several nurseries before making your final decision.
Some key points to consider when visiting a nursery
* Do the children look happy and engaged in meaningful activity or play?
* Is the nursery clean and tidy?
* Are there any displays around the nursery of the children’s work?
* Are the staff actively engaging with the children?
* Does the nursery follow a curriculum which includes a balance of activities?
* Does the nursery have clear policies on behaviour, health and safety, emergencies etc?
* Is there an outdoor play area? If so, check that the equipment is safe and well-maintained, and that the area is secure.
* Is there a nursery manager?
* Is there a designated contact person who will be responsible for liaising with you about your child and undertaking their development appraisals?
* How flexible is the nursery about drop-off and pick-up times?
* Are the toys and equipment clean and in good condition?
* Do you have to prepare your own meals for your child, or does the nursery offer food? If the nursery offers food, have a look at the menu options for that week.
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