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Choosing childcare

Childcare choices

Step 1

Identify what type of care you are looking for. Below are basic descriptions of types of provision, however services offered can vary.

Childminders

Care for up to six children (or more if working with co-childminders) of various ages in their own home. They often work more flexible hours to suit irregular working patterns and are registered and inspected by the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) in the same manner as day nurseries. Registered childminders may also be approved childcarers who offer care in the child’s family home.

Day Nurseries

Often larger settings which care for children age 0+. They tend to be open from 8 am to 6 pm and are registered and inspected by Ofsted. Many day nurseries also offer before and after school clubs.

Playgroups

Emphasise parental involvement in the service and sessions are often run during mornings and afternoons. They are registered and inspected by Ofsted on a regular basis, if providing sessions of two hours or more.

Out of School Clubs / Holiday Schemes

Are generally based at schools, community centres or day nurseries. They are registered and inspected by Ofsted on a regular basis if providing care for children under the age of 8 and if providing care for more than 1 hour and 55 minutes.

Nannies

Are employed by you to look after your children in your home. They are not (usually) inspected by Ofsted and you will be unable to claim financial help with the childcare costs unless they are registered as an approved childcarer.

Step 2

Get a list of registered providers from your Calderdale Families' Information Service by:

Step 3

Plan some visits.

Try to see at least two or three of your top choices. On your visit, use the checklist below to take note of your findings.

Remember:
You have the right to see all training certificates, setting policies and Ofsted* reports.

* Ofsted is a Government department responsible for the registration and inspection of early years childcare.

Questions to ask and things to observe

The setting / premises

• Are the premises bright and clean?
• Is there a variety of suitable toys for the children to play with and activities on offer?
• Can you see a copy of the registration, insurance and Ofsted documents?
• Are the premises secure and is the equipment safe?
• Do the children have the opportunity for outside play?

The childcare workers and children

• Have first aid and food hygiene training been undertaken recently?
• What other training and experience do the childcare workers have?
• Does the setting have a low ratio of turnover in childcare workers?
• Does each child have a worker who engages with them more closely?
• Are the children playing together, sharing and showing consideration for others?

The care

• Is there a policy in place for managing behaviour and do you agree with it?
• Are the children supplied with healthy meals and snacks?
• Are there any additional charges for snacks, school pick-ups, etc?
• Does the setting have a parents’ information pack?
• Does the setting have a flexible settling in period for the child?
• Can you speak to other parents about the care on offer?
• Has the setting undertaken a quality assurance accreditation?
• Does the setting provide early education places for 3 and 4 year olds?

Then review your visits and make the choice that is best for you and your child!

• Choosing Calderdale childcare checklist [PDF file 388KB]|

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