How to choose Childcare for your Family

How to choose Childcare for your Family

This is often an emotional, if not agonising, stage you reach with your child. But with extended maternity leave, shared parental leave options, paternity leave, flexible working conditions, and child care funding, you may find returning to work more accessible for your child and you.

If you are looking for Childcare because you’re returning to work, make sure you have checked out all your employer’s policies on these areas. For instance, it’s now everyone’s right to ask for flexible working patterns as a parent. The employer doesn’t need to accept flexible working patterns, so make sure you consider whether it can work for your particular area of business and how it can be implemented. And think ahead – 4 longer days may suit now, but what about when school starts, and your child needs a different type of care from 3.15 pm?

You may also be looking for Childcare as an added extra – to give your child some socialising time within a group of children for child development, perhaps ahead of starting school, to give them that head start on what to expect. But whatever the reason, your research and visits to your chosen options are essential.

Many people even start looking at childcare options before their babies are born, such is the pressure you can feel to select the most suitable place for your child in the future; some even come with a waiting list for a specific childcare setting.

For a start, there are various options for your child; once you know their character, one may be better. Location, price, hours, all these may impact your choice. But so may your child’s personality – do they find noise and large numbers of children overwhelming? If so, you may need to start with a nanny or childminder, and you may move to another option as they develop, as your family grows, or as government funding kicks in.

We hope our following information helps you on how to choose childcare for your family.

What are your Child Care Options

What are your options regarding the best choice for your Family’s needs for the right childcare provider that can offer you quality child care in or out of your home?

Private Day Care Nurseries (Nursery School)

Child Minders

Nannies

Au Pair

Pre School Groups (preschool groups which run for a few hours in your local community)

Family 

Whatever option you are looking at for your early childhood education setting, the choice must be registered with Ofsted (unless exempt under certain conditions), the governing body for children in these early years. Do not risk anything else. Ofsted inspects and judges all registered Childcare, so check out their inspections at www.ofsted.gov.uk. You’ll find ‘word of mouth’ opinions very helpful, too, so tuning in to friends and other mums at any groups you attend is a good idea to help you find the right fit.

Top Tip: 
Ensuring you know the policies around sick children in the childcare centre or setting is also crucial. Ask any parent when your child starts in a new setting with other children. No matter how clean the setting is, you can not escape all those bugs, especially in the first few months. SO knowing the policies and ensuring they follow them is also crucial.

Top Tip:
Hours of operation: these are key, especially when looking at your work schedule and family needs and more so when it comes to having more than one child needing care, especially if you are looking at wrap-around care for other children. Keeping an eye on your needs as your children grow is vital, as sometimes there can be other great solutions as your children get older.

Private Day Care Nurseries

Feel free to ask questions – this is their profession. Staff members should be able to answer everything. Who greets you? Do they put you at ease and answer all your questions easily? Is the manager presentable, knowledgeable, or seemingly involved?

Your questions may be answered as you are shown around. But if not, you need to leave knowing all the following points at least:-

How do you structure a typical day (and how does that change for each age group)? What will my child be doing here? What if my child doesn’t like the activity you have set out?

Can they be outside for long periods? 

What is the outdoors like? Is it just for ‘outdoor play’, or do you grow vegetables and take their learning outside? Is the equipment suitable for my child?

Where will my child sleep? Can they have our regular sleep pattern?

What is the policy on meals, menus, snacks and food (do they have a policy and menus to show you? They should have)? Do you have fresh fruit and vegetables? Where does the food come from? Do you cook your food on-site?

And what about learning and development? What is your philosophy on developing a child’s knowledge? How do you know if my child is progressing well? How will you show me what they have done in a day and their progress?

Childminder

A childminder is an individual who looks after children in their own home, providing a more intimate and home-like setting compared to more extensive childcare facilities. They are registered and regulated by the relevant authorities in the UK.

Legal Obligations and Registration

Before anything else, ensure that the childminder you’re considering is registered with Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) in England. Registration ensures that the childminder meets specific safety, care, and education standards.

Here are some critical legal obligations childminders must meet:

1. DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS – background checks) ensures the childminder has no criminal record that would deem them unsuitable for working with children for safety precautions.
2. First Aid Training: Childminders must undergo paediatric first aid training to ensure they can handle emergencies.
3. Safe Environment: Regular home health and safety checks are mandatory.
4. Insurance: Public liability insurance is essential to cover any potential accidents or incidents.

What to Expect

Childminder vs Private Nurseries

Personalised Care

Childminders offer a more personalised approach, often looking after a smaller number of children, allowing individualised attention for your child’s care.

Flexibility

Many childminders offer more flexible hours, accommodating parents’ varied work schedules, which can be an essential factor for many of us working parents.

Cost

Childminders may be more cost-effective than private nurseries, especially considering their flexibility.

Capacity

Childminders in the UK are usually registered to care for a group of up to six children under the age of eight, including their children. Of these, only three can be in the early years (child’s age of 0-5 years), and only one can be under one year old, ensuring that each child receives adequate care and attention.

Au Pair

An au pair is a young person (typically aged 18-30) from a foreign country who lives with a host family and assists with Childcare and light household duties in exchange for room, board, and a stipend. Unlike a nanny or childminder, an au pair is considered a family member during their stay as in-home childcare providers.

Legal Obligations and Requirements

When hiring an au pair in the UK, both you and the au pair must adhere to specific legal requirements; many people go through agencies:

Visa and Immigration: Ensure your au pair has the appropriate visa, such as a Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme visa, which allows them to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months.

DBS Check: While not mandatory, requesting a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is advisable for added peace of mind.

Contract: A written agreement outlining roles, responsibilities, working hours, stipend, and duration of stay is crucial for clarity and to avoid misunderstandings.

Insurance: Make sure your au pair is covered by health and travel insurance for the duration of their stay.

What to Expect

Here’s what you can expect when hosting an au pair:

Cultural Exchange: An au pair provides an opportunity for cultural exchange, exposing your children to new languages, traditions, and perspectives.

Flexible Help: Unlike traditional childcare services, au pairs can offer more flexible help with varying schedules, including evenings and weekends.

Limited Experience: While au pairs may have some childcare experience, they are not professional nannies. Training and clear communication are essential to ensure they understand your expectations.

Nanny

A nanny is a professional childcare provider who typically works full-time or part-time in a family’s home, providing individualised care for children. This can be a great option for how to choose childcare for your family especially if you have more than one child or demanding work hours. Unlike childminders or au pairs, nannies are trained and experienced in early childhood education and development, offering higher expertise and specialised care. Read our detailed article from a specialist on what questions to ask when hiring a nanny.

Role and Responsibilities

Legal Obligations and Requirements

When hiring a nanny in the UK, it’s essential to adhere to legal requirements:

Contract: A formal contract outlining terms of employment, including salary, working hours, holidays, and notice period, is crucial.

DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is mandatory to ensure the nanny has no criminal record.

Tax and National Insurance: As an employer, you are responsible for deducting tax and National Insurance contributions from your nanny’s salary and paying them to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

Insurance: Public liability insurance is recommended to cover any potential accidents or incidents in your home.

What to Consider When Hiring a Nanny

Qualifications and Experience: Look for a nanny with relevant qualifications in Childcare and ample experience working with children of similar ages to yours.

References: Always check references from previous employers to gain insight into the nanny’s performance, reliability, and suitability for your Family.

Trial Period: Consider implementing a trial period to assess the nanny’s compatibility with your Family and ensure the best fit for both parties.

Preschool Groups

Preschool groups, often called playgroups or nursery schools, are early education settings that cater to children typically aged 2 to 5 years. These groups offer a structured yet nurturing environment where children can engage in various activities to promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. They can often be supported with the government hours and an alternative way to look at how to choose childcare for your family if you are looking for settling your child before they start school rather than around work hours.

Benefits of Preschool Groups

Early Learning: Through play-based activities and structured learning experiences, children develop essential skills in literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving.

Independence: Preschool encourages independence and self-confidence as children learn to make choices, solve problems, and take on new challenges.

Social Development: Preschool groups provide opportunities for children to interact with peers, fostering social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and communication.

Preparation for School: Attending a preschool group can help ease the transition to primary school by familiarising children with routines, expectations, and the school environment.

What to Consider When Choosing a Preschool Group

Ofsted Rating: Check the Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) rating of the preschool group to ensure they meet regulatory standards for safety and quality of care.

Curriculum and Approach: Consider the curriculum and teaching approach of the preschool group to ensure it aligns with your child’s interests and developmental needs.

Staff Qualifications: Inquire about the qualifications and training of the staff and staff-to-child ratios to ensure your child receives attentive and personalised care.

Facilities and Resources: Visit the preschool group to assess the facilities, resources, and learning environment, providing it is safe, clean, and stimulating for your child.

Parental Involvement: Consider the level of parental involvement the preschool group encourages, as this can vary significantly between settings.

Preschool Groups vs Other Childcare Options

Structure and Curriculum

Preschool groups often follow a structured curriculum designed to prepare children for school. In contrast, other childcare options like childminders or nannies may offer more flexible, individualised care without a formal curriculum.

Socialisation Opportunities

Preschool groups provide valuable opportunities for peer socialisation, which may be limited in home-based childcare settings.

Cost and Availability

The cost and availability of preschool groups can vary depending on location, hours, and funding options, making it essential to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your Family’s needs.

Family Member

If you are lucky enough to have great family close by this can be an essential to look at for how to choose childcare for your family.

Trust and Familiarity: One of the most significant benefits is the existing trust and relationship with the family member, providing peace of mind knowing your child is in capable hands.

Flexible Arrangements: Family members may offer more flexible care arrangements, accommodating your work schedule and other family commitments.

Cost-Effective: Hiring a family member may be more cost-effective than other childcare options, as you may negotiate a lower rate or offer non-monetary benefits in exchange for their services.

Considerations and Challenges

Clear Expectations: Establishing clear expectations and boundaries is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and potential conflicts. Discuss responsibilities, schedules, compensation, and any other relevant details upfront.

Professionalism: While the family member may be familiar, it’s essential to maintain professionalism in the childcare arrangement to ensure your child’s well-being and the success of the working relationship.

Legal and Tax Implications: Even if hiring a family member, you may still have legal obligations, such as employment contracts, tax contributions, and insurance, to consider. It’s advisable to seek legal and financial advice to understand your responsibilities fully.

Potential Strain on Relationship: Mixing family and work can sometimes strain relationships due to the complexities of balancing personal and professional boundaries. Open communication and regular check-ins can mitigate potential issues but its up to you if this could be the right fit in how to choose childcare for your family.

Tips for a Successful Arrangement

Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with the family member, addressing any concerns or issues promptly and respectfully.

Written Agreement: Consider drafting a written agreement outlining the terms and conditions of the childcare arrangement to ensure clarity and clarity.

Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss how the arrangement works for both parties and make any necessary adjustments as needed.

Respect and Appreciation: Show respect and appreciation for the family member’s role in caring for your child, recognising their efforts and contributions to your family’s well-being.

After-School Clubs

After-school clubs are organised programs or activities on school premises or community venues after the regular school day ends. These can be a great idea for older children on how to choose childcare for your family. These clubs offer a range of activities, such as sports, arts and crafts, academic support, and more, designed to enrich children’s learning and development in a fun and supportive setting.

Benefits of After-School Clubs

Structured Environment: After-school clubs provide a structured environment that promotes learning, creativity, and social interaction, helping children develop essential life skills and positive habits.

Supervised Care: With trained staff and supervisors overseeing activities, after-school clubs offer parents peace of mind, knowing their children are safe and well-cared for during after-school hours.

Socialisation: After-school clubs allow children to socialise with peers outside their regular classroom setting, fostering friendships and developing social skills.

Convenience for Working Parents: After-school clubs offer a convenient childcare solution for working parents, providing a supervised setting for children to engage in meaningful activities while parents finish their workday again a key point when looking around how to choose childcare for your family.

What to Consider When Choosing an After-School Club

Location and Timing: Consider the location and timing of the after-school club, ensuring it aligns with your child’s school schedule and your work commitments.

Programs and Activities: Evaluate the range of programs and activities the after-school club offers, considering your child’s interests and developmental needs.

Safety and Supervision: Inquire about the safety measures and supervision protocols to ensure a secure environment for your child.

Cost and Fees: Understand the cost structure, fees, and any additional expenses associated with the after-school club, including membership dues, equipment, or activity fees.

Feedback and Reviews: Seek feedback and read reviews from other parents or guardians whose children have attended the after-school club to gain insights into the quality of care and programs offered.

We hope all the above helps you in how to choose childcare for your family, but looking and understanding the EYFS can also be very valuable.

EYFS – The Statutory Curriculum for Early Years

It will be helpful to have an overview of this with how to choose childcare for your family The Early Years Foundation Stage (the EYFS) concentrates on meaningful areas of a child’s development and well-being. It is mandatory for all registered providers with Ofsted on the Early Years write, childminders registered with a childminder agency, and early years settings within maintained, non-maintained, and independent schools. Ofsted will assess their work against the requirements of the EYFS.

So, what is the EYFS? The ‘framework’ sets out the standards that all providers must meet in order to ensure that your child will learn and develop well and be kept healthy and safe. Over the years, it has developed and refined. It now outlines the requirements that the provider must “promote teaching and learning to ensure children’s school readiness, and gives children the broad range of knowledge and skills that provide the right foundation for good future progress through school and life.”

In action, this means that an educational programme must shape activities and experiences, that this programme sets and delivers goals for this early learning through to the end of their fifth year when they will be at school, that the provider can assess a child’s development and report that progress to you; and that the learning allows for all children, including those with any special educational needs or disabilities.

Alongside these aspects of learning and development are the principles that your child is unique and their care should be individual. Your child is “constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured”. Your child should experience only positive relationships so they can become strong and independent within “enabling environments” that meet their needs and where beneficial partnerships between parents and staff are valuable and work well.

One more thing to explain and to help you in how to choose childcare for your family is what the areas of learning and development cover: communication and language, physical development, and personal, social and emotional development.

As you visit a provider, you should be able to see these areas reflected in literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design. Try to see that the staff and environment involve lots of opportunities for language, physical development, and something we call ‘personal, social and emotional development’ (which helps with social development, relationships with others, respect for others and the environment, and self-confidence).

A good provider will incorporate all of this quite naturally within their practice. The EYFS has evolved over several years, but its framework has been used for some time. Providers may offer other methods, but they must all reflect the EYFS and its standards. These are all key to look at within how to choose childcare for your family, to help select the right option for your child.

Other styles to look at around how to choose childcare for your family include Reggio Emilia – an educational approach based on collaboration between the children, parents and teachers, where a child’s rights are fundamental, and a culture respects that childhood is a critical period of exploration, creativity and enjoyment.

Steiner – Another factor to look at in how to choose childcare for your family. Steiner is artistic creativity and development of the imagination are fundamental to their learning in an unhurried and creative environment. Their philosophy is based on anthroposophy, and their teaching is not based on attainment or streaming learning.

Montessori philosophy is also an option to look at in how to choose childcare for your family. The how to choose childcare for your family Philosophy believes each child has a natural desire to learn and must be given an environment that is carefully prepared to support that learning. It is a holistic approach that values the individual and unique human spirit and looks to develop the whole child – social, emotional, cognitive and physical. Get some great ideas on Montessori on our pages.

Hopefully all the above has given you lots of ideas on how to choose childcare for your family. We wish you all the best in your childcare journey.

# How to choose childcare for your family