When looking for childcare, it helps to decide which features are essential, which childcare options you would really like to have and then which factors you would like but could live without.
There are many childcare options available:
Here are questions to consider when looking for childcare:
- Does it have to be near your route to work to minimise the travelling time?
Logistically you have to consider this aspect before making your choice because when you consider that most day care starts after 8am, the travelling time to work and back has to be considered
- Does it have to be near or at your home?
Do you have a back up plan in case you are held up at work?
What happens if you are ill and need your child to be cared for the day, is it not preferable to have your childcare near to home so that your partner can do the drop off or even at home?
Where will your child be attending school when they are older. Is it important for you that your child has begun to form his/her own friendship groups in his/her local area so that the transition to mainstream schooling will be eased by the familiarity of special others?
- Does it need to be near your place of work?
If there is an emergency can you get there quickly?
Would you have a difficult motorway/rush hour congestion journey home which cannot guarantee that you will arrive at the care setting in time?
Having listed your essentials and desirables where do you go next?
The childcare market in the UK is diverse as well as being full of choices which you as parents can put together into a personalised package to suit your individual preferences. A wide range of friends, family and professionals can offer advice to parents but in the end you are the experts on your child and as such need to select a childcare provider who understands your parenting styles and who will fulfil all of your needs.
So what are your choices and how do you make the right decision?
Let Parental Choice guide you on your childcare options. Read on .....
