Childminders
Childminders look after children in the childminder's own home. They can often be flexible about the hours they work and most will drop off or pick up children from local schools, pre-schools and nurseries. They can take your child to local parks, playgrounds, parent and toddler groups and libraries.
Creches and nurseries
Use our online form to request information on local crèches. Day nurseries provide care and education for children under 5 years during the working day. The National Day Nurseries Association - NDNA - provides useful information and guidance for parents about choosing a Day Nursery.
Out of school clubs and playschemes
Out of school care consists of breakfast clubs, lunch clubs and after school clubs that run outside of normal school hours. Most children attending out-of-school services are aged between 5 and 11 years. Some services provide places for 3 and 4 year olds to fit around nursery or pre-school education. Some services provide places geared for older children aged 10 to 16 years. Holiday playschemes provide care, entertainment and a range of fun activities. Read more information and advice about Out of School Clubs or join our Out of School Hours Network.
Nannies and babysitters
Read the Directgov advice about finding a nanny. If you are using a babysitter, make sure that the person you have asked is capable. This is because the law doesn't state an age when children can be left alone and if your babysitter is under the age of 16, you remain legally responsible for the safety of your child. There is more advice about using a babysitter on the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children website and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website.
Help paying for childcare
Visit the following websites for help and advice about paying for childcare:
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