Childminders - Can look after up to 6 children
under 8 including up to 3 children under 5 usually in their own home. They can be flexible and will usually take and collect
children from school. Cost - around £150 a week
Playgroups - Usually community or voluntary run for 3 to 5 year olds. Cost around £5 a session but can be free if state scheme
Day nurseries - Most nurseries will take very young children some around as 6 weeks, run all year around, be aware that
many have a minimum number of hours you must pay for whether your child attends or not. Cost vary from around £130 to
£230 a week
Nursery schools - Open during the school term and generally give care to 3 - 5 year olds
Child carer in house (au pair) -
if you employ a child minder they will normally work the hours you require
but they are an employee and many expect accomodation to be provided. Cost - dependant on hours worked but
at least minimum wage
Nanny - As above but usually nannies have qualifications in child care and as such are paid more than a child carer around
£250 to £450
Questions to ask child minders, nannies and au pairs:
- Certification and qualifications.
- Experience.
- References.
- Childcare philosophies (particularly regarding discipline).
- Typical activities carried out with the children.
- Availability.
- Hours and rates.
