There are several types of approved childcare (childcare you can get funding for) available, each offering different benefits and levels of flexibility. The right choice will depend on your child’s needs, your routine, and what works best for your circumstances. The overview below introduces the main options to help you compare and decide what may suit you and your child.
1. Day Nurseries
- Age Range: From around 3 months to school age.
- Setting: Group-based care in a dedicated facility.
- Hours: Typically 8am–6pm, often all year round.
- Regulation: Ofsted registered in England.
Pros:
- Structured learning aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
- Socialisation with peers.
- Regulated staff-to-child ratios.
Cons:
- May be less flexible in the hours offered and there can be a waiting list.
2. Childminders
- Age Range: From birth upwards.
- Setting: Care is usually based in the childminder’s home.
- Hours: Flexible, often including early mornings or evenings.
- Regulation: Must be registered with Ofsted (or equivalent).
Pros:
- Home-like environment.
- Smaller groups of mixed-age children, siblings can be cared for together.
Cons:
- Limited backup if the childminder is ill
3. Preschools / Playgroups
- Age Range: Usually 2–5 years.
- Setting: Short sessions, often term-time only based in a variety of locations such as community halls.
- Regulation: Ofsted-registered.
Pros:
- Often smaller group sizes than day nurseries.
- Can be a more affordable option.
Cons:
- Limited hours; parents may require additional holiday care.
4. Wraparound Care
(includes: Breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, and holiday schemes.)
- Age range: School-aged children.
- Setting: May be on the school site, or another site close by. The provision can be run by the school or by a different private provider such as a nursery or childminder.
- Regulation: Ofsted registered
Pros:
- Supports working parents with before and after school care.
- All parents in England with primary school aged children are eligible to access wraparound childcare
Cons:
- Availability varies by school and area.
5. School-based / maintained nurseries
- Age range: Children from 2 years to school age (some schools take younger children)
- Setting: On school sites, sometimes in a dedicated building.
- Regulation: Ofsted registered
Pros:
- Can help with transition to school
Cons:
- Term-time only and availability of places can be limited.
6. Nannies
- Age Range: From birth upwards.
- Setting: Care in your home; can be live-in or live-out.
- Regulation: Optional Ofsted registration (for tax-free childcare eligibility).
Pros:
- One-to-one care.
- Support with household tasks.
Cons:
- One of the most expensive options.
What to keep in mind
Here are some of the key factors that parents and carers find helpful to consider when choosing childcare. Use this list to compare your options, and to help structure your conversations with potential providers.
1. Know your needs
- Consider your child’s age, temperament, and development.
- Think about your work schedule, transport, and budget.
- Decide if you prefer home-based or group settings.
2. Use Trusted Sources
- Check Living Well Warrington to find registered providers.
- Ofsted Reports: Check inspection outcomes and ratings.
- Word of Mouth: Ask other parents in your community.
3. Visit and Observe
- Watch how staff interact with children—are they warm, responsive, and engaged?
- Are the children calm and happy and seem to be purposeful in their play?
- Look for clean, safe, stimulating environments.
- What opportunities are there for outdoor learning?
- Ask to see daily routines, menus, and activity plans.
4. Ask Key Questions
- What is the staff-to-child ratio?
- Do you operate a key worker scheme (whereby one member of staff has main responsibility for your child)
- Are staff qualified in early years education, safeguarding and first aid?
- Where would your child sleep at nap time if applicable?
- How do they support emotional wellbeing and behaviour?
- Are there opportunities for taster sessions?
- What is the settling-in process?
- How do they communicate with parents (e.g. daily updates, apps)?
- Are meals and snacks provided? How are dietary needs accommodated?
5. Check Policies and Procedures
- Safeguarding and child protection.
- Illness and medication.
- Inclusion and diversity.
- Emergency procedures.
6. Trust Your Instincts
- Does your child seem comfortable during the visit?
- Do you feel confident leaving your child there?
- Are staff open, transparent, and welcoming?