Path to this page:Home >> Children and Families >> Childcare and Early Years >> Childcare Options

Childcare Options

|Back to top

Babies 0 - 2 years

Babies need to build strong relationships with consistent adults as they learn to trust and communicate.

Care must be taken with their food, hygiene and sleeping arrangements.

If you intend to return to work after your maternity leave, you could look at a

childminder
nursery
nanny.

If you are able to stay at home you may want information on places to go to socialise with other parents.

You can contact us (details below) for details of local parent and toddler groups and toy libraries.

|Back to top

Toddlers 2 - 3 years

Toddlers will be developing lots of new skills, running, jumping and motor skills.

They also need time to rest and play quietly.

As your child explores the world they may be ready to venture out into a playgroup or nursery.

If you are thinking about returning to work either full or part time, you may require a mix of childcare to give your child a range of experiences - a playgroup in the morning and childminder who picks up and cares for your child in the afternoon.

|Back to top

Pre-School Children 3 - 5 years

At this age children concentrate on trying out new skills and testing those they have already learnt.

They develop social skills, like sharing and negotiating.

The childcare you choose will still depend on whether you are working or at home.

Nurseries, playgroups, childminders and nannies are still the main options, but most parents will use a mixture of care.

Some children may start in their school's nursery class.

|Back to top

School Age Children 4 - 12 years

Once your child has started at school their day is taken care of during school hours.

Outside of these times and during the holidays you may like to consider other activities.

Working parents usually need a mixture of pre and after school care, either a childminder/nanny or a playscheme.

Clubs and groups offer a chance to make and develop friendships and participate in a range of activities. Have a look at some of the youth services activities.

Further options and reading on childcare are available from our childcare publications.

|Back to top