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Whether you’re thinking of going back to work, or struggling to juggle the school holidays with work and other commitments, choosing good quality, accessible early learning and childcare can be confusing.
There are various options available and a number of things to consider.
- Childminders
- Day Nurseries
- Nursery Schools
- Pre-schools and Playgroups
- Crèches
- Parent and Toddler Groups
- Children’s Centres
- Out of School Care
- Nannies or Non-registered Childcare
- Playschemes
Search the Family Information Directory for childcare providers by area, town and postcode.
What Should I Check? (PDF, 33KB) gives information about Criminal Records Bureau (CRB), Ofsted and the Independent Safeguarding Policy.
- Choosing childcare checklist - what to look for when visiting a childcare provider.
- Questions to ask your nanny or home based carer - e.g. how would you organise my child’s day?
- Free Early Education Entitlement (FEEE): Free learning and childcare for 3-4 year olds
- Help with childcare costs – includes Working Tax Credits and Childcare Vouchers
- Quality of learning and care – includes Early Years Foundation Stage and Ofsted
- Securing a school place and children moving from childcare to school
- Safeguarding of children in childcare - .i.e. protection of children
- Special education needs (SEN) – support for families with children and young people with SEN
- Complaints and concerns about the quality of a registered childcare service or childminder.
Leicestershire County Council’s Family Information Service offers impartial advice and guidance, or a tailored package of support to help you make the right decision. Contact a dedicated advisor on 0116 305 6545 or email family@leics.gov.uk
Page Last Updated: 7 December 2012
