Confused about childcare? Read on to discover what’s available and how to decide what’s right for you.

 

These days there are numerous childcare options available, but having such an array of choices often seems to make the decision process even trickier. When seeking out childcare it’s helpful to plan in advance and do your research carefully as what’s perfect for one family may have numerous disadvantages for others. Be prepared to ask lots of questions, see the chief child carers in action and go with your gut feelings. To help with your quest, here’s a round-up of some of the key options available.

 

 

Childminders are self-employed and look after your child in their own home. They usually care for a small group of children, so your child will have company during the day. As well as giving children meals, they often organise activities and outings. Fees vary, but are generally less than nurseries or nannies.

 

Plus points: Childminders have to be registered with OFSTED and are inspected every year. Some minders are flexible and can have children part-time, at weekends or early evenings.

 

Minus points: There’s often a waiting list for good childminders. Early starts may be necessary to allow time to get your child to the minder. Childminders tend to not take children if they’re ill.

 

 

Day nurseries usually take children aged from about three months to five years old. The day tends to be well-structured, with organised times for play, rest and meals, and children are split into age appropriate groups. They’re normally open all day, with typical hours being 8am-6pm. There are various different types of nursery, such as private, council, community and workplace, but they’re all registered and inspected by OFSTED.

 

Plus points: Every day is well organised with a wide variety of stimulating activities.

 

Minus points: Nurseries aren’t that flexible and don’t normally stay open outside their set hours. Children are cared for by a variety of people and can’t attend nursery if they’re ill.

 

 

Nannies are employed by you and care for children in your own home. They can be good if you need flexible childcare, as you can set the hours accordingly and can even work on a live-in basis if you prefer. The cost varies according to the duties required and whether they live in or out.

 

Plus points: Your child stays in familiar surroundings and is only cared for by one person. A nanny will look after your child if he’s ill.

 

Minus points: There’s no central registration for nannies, so you have to rigorously check their references and interview them properly when deciding. You’re also responsible for paying their tax and national insurance. For one child it can be costly.

 

 

Au pairs are traditionally young women who come from Europe and live in with families, but in recent there are more young men wanting this type of work too. Their main aim is usually to improve their language skills and earn money in return for helping with childcare and household tasks. Basic au pairs normally work up to five hours per day, and two evening a week, in return for about £50 a week spending money. An au pair ‘plus’ works for longer hours and more pay.

 

Plus points: Compared to other forms of childcare, au pairs are usually less expensive as part of their salary is in the form of board and lodgings. Au pairs help out with household chores and can provide babysitting in the evenings.

 

Minus points: You need to have plenty of space at home to be able to comfortably accommodate an au pair. Sometimes there may be language problems and it’s important to sort out issues such as use of the telephone and smoking in advance. Au pairs don’t need childcare qualifications, so aren’t suitable for caring for very young children.

 

 

For school age children, many areas offer after school clubs. These are ideal if you’re unable to collect your child as soon as school finishes and ensures they have somewhere safe to go. The facilities and services offered by clubs vary, but examples include a venue for doing homework, use of computers, arts and crafts, games, an outdoor play area and a light snacks.

 

Plus points: A safe, fun environment that’s available straight after school.

 

Minus points: Some clubs close before 6.00pm, making it a bit of a rush for working parents to collect children on the way home. Only available during term-time.

 

 

During the school holidays, and sometimes in half term breaks too, holiday clubs are available in most areas. Some focus purely on one type of activity, such as sport, whilst others offer a variety of activities, such as arts and crafts and indoor and outdoor play, as well as outings and trips. The clubs are very geared up to keeping children active and occupied and there’s the chance for them to learn new skills. 

 

Plus points: Lots of fun activities to keep children occupied all day. Available for summer and Easter holidays, and some half-terms.

 

Minus points: Can be a bit repetitive for children if they’re there for weeks on end.

 

 

According to the Daycare Trust, when sussing out childcare options you should look for: 

 

* Trained and experienced staff who are ready to learn and respond to your child’s needs.

* Safe and clean premises, that are welcoming and friendly and have play space outside.

* Busy but relaxed children, who seem happy and purposeful.

* A staff team and group of children who reflect local ethnic and cultural groups.

* A range of fun activities planned each day.

* A big welcome for you and your child.

 

The Daycare Trust also advise that it’s helpful to draw up a shortlist of possibilities and visit them all to see if they meet your requirements. Where possible, seek out references from friends or other parents, as a personal opinion can often offer the real insight into the service that you need.

 

Whatever you do, don’t worry once you’ve decided. As long as you’ve done your research thoroughly and chosen a high quality, reputable childcare service, your child should be in safe hands.