What is the best childcare for me?

Choosing the right childcare option can feel overwhelming, especially for career-driven parents seeking a nurturing and engaging environment for their children. Each childcare choice has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the different types of childcare options including Childminders, Day Nurseries, Nannies, and School Nurseries—so you can make the best decision for your family.

Childminders

Childminders are registered caregivers who look after children in their own homes. They often care for small groups, providing a home-like environment.

Close-Knit Environment: With fewer children, your child will receive more individualised attention and care.

Flexible Hours: Many Childminders offer flexibility in scheduling, which can accommodate varying work hours. Many Childminders offer earlier and later start times and collection times compared to other Early Years providers.  Some may even offer over night care which is great for parents that work night shifts.

Social Interaction: Your child can play with other children, promoting social skills. Childminders go out into the community most days and will meet up with other Childminders which develops your child’s social skills further.

Shared care: You are able to share care between a setting and a Childminder.

We work closely with many Childminders in our area and so if you think this is a better option for you or you would like to look at the shared care option, then we can help you with this.

Private Day Nurseries (What we are)

Day nurseries provide full-day care for children in a non-domestic building. Day Nurseries are able to structure their own curriculums and may follow a particular learning approach.

Curriculum: Many day nurseries follow a recognised educational framework that focus on development, such as the Reggio Emilia approach, Montessori, and Curiosity Approach etc.

Every nursery needs to follow the Early Years Foundation Stage but how they do this can differ with each setting. You will be able to compare your parenting beliefs for your child against a nursery set of values and beliefs to help you select the most appropriate for your child.

Opening times: Private Nurseries differ with their opening times, but the majority offer full day care from around 7:30am up until 6pm. This helps parents that work full days. Different nurseries offer different session times, so it is about researching which session times will fit in with your routine and work patterns.

Socialisation Opportunities: Children can interact with larger groups, helping them build social relationships. Nurseries have to follow ratios with the different age groups; 1:3 for under 2’s, 1:5 for 2-3 year olds and 1:8 for children 3 and over. Therefore, each room will have more than one adult to support your child.

Consistent Routine: Children can benefit from a predictable daily routine, fostering a sense of security. Different nurseries have different routines as part of their day. These can be flexible around the children’s needs, and allowing for free flow to the outside throughout the day.

Specific training for different age groups: Private Day Nurseries who look after children under the age of 2 years, must have specific training in this age group.

Nannies

Nannies are professional caregivers who come to your home to look after your child. They provide personalised care tailored to your child's needs.

Customised Care: Tailored to your child’s interests and educational needs, nannies can create a unique learning environment in your own home.

Flexibility: Nannies can adapt their schedules to meet your needs, making them a convenient option for working parents.

One-on-One Attention: Your child benefits from focused, individualised care and engagement.

School nurseries

School nurseries are usually run by primary schools and offer early years education curriculum, typically for ages 3 and 4.

Early Preparation for School: Your child will be able to attend ‘school’ at an earlier start time to your typical Reception age at 4.

Structured Education: Typically, school nurseries have a curriculum that focuses on early learning in a structured environment.

Social and Emotional Development: Preparing children for the social aspects of school.

Making Your Decision

As a full-time working parent, choosing the right childcare option boils down to balancing your child's educational needs with your family's schedule and priorities.

Here are a few questions to help you reflect on your choice:

1. What hours do I need childcare? 

Evaluate whether you need flexibility or if you can work with set hours and what these hours need to be?

2. What educational approach resonates with us as a family? 

Find which approach aligns best with your values—whether it is a structured curriculum or a play-based learning environment. Think about your beliefs for children being in the outdoors in all weathers.

3. What is my budget for childcare?

Different options come with different costs, so consider which aligns with your financial situation. Check which funding entitlement you are eligible for and then work out the best way you can use your free hours mixed with some private hours to help with your routine.

4. What kind of environment do I want for my child?

Consider whether you want a home-like atmosphere or a more formal educational setting.