Childminders
Childminders offer childcare and early education from their own home. They are self-employed and must be registered with Ofsted.
Ofsted checks childminders and their homes regularly. Ofsted also sets the number of children each childminder can care for. This is usually up to six children under eight years old, including the childminder’s own children.
Childminders may suit you if you need childcare outside regular working hours, want children of different ages to stay together, or prefer care in a home setting.
Costs are usually around £5 to £9 per child, per hour, but this can vary. Check what is included, such as food or outings, before you agree to a place.
You should complete a contract with the childminder. This should include costs, hours and any arrangements for your child’s dietary or medical needs.
Nurseries
Nurseries offer childcare and early education, usually for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Many nurseries also offer out-of-school care for children aged 5 to 11.
Many nurseries are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, and some are open all year round. Costs vary, and some nurseries offer subsidised places. Ask for a copy of their fees before you choose a place.
Nurseries can be in a dedicated building, workplace, community centres or school. They may be privately owned, run by a committee or charity, or supported by the council or a school.
Pre-schools and playgroups
Pre-schools and playgroups offer childcare and early education. They are similar to nurseries but usually provide sessional childcare during school hours and term time only.
They usually care for children aged 2 and over. Groups often run from community buildings and are usually managed by a committee of parents and professionals.
Visit the setting and ask questions before you choose a place. This will help you decide if it is right for your child and family.
School age childcare
School age childcare is used to describe the range of childcare options available for children and young people aged 4 to 16. This includes wraparound childcare, such as breakfast and after-school clubs, as well as holiday childcare during school breaks.
Before and after school childcare
You can use before and after school childcare if you need childcare outside school hours. This is sometimes called wraparound childcare.
Clubs offer a safe and welcoming place for children to spend time with friends, learn new skills and take part in age-appropriate activities.
Activities may include arts and crafts, sports, games, music, reading and homework support.
Many breakfast clubs and after-school clubs are linked to local schools and run on school sites. Others run from community venues, nurseries or dedicated childcare settings.
Learn more about school age childcare including free breakfast clubs.
Holiday childcare
You can use holiday childcare during school holidays when schools are closed.
Holiday clubs offer a wide range of activities designed to keep children active, entertained and engaged throughout the school break. Activities may include sports, creative activities, trips and themed sessions. They can give children an opportunity to make friends and try new experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
Other options
Baby and toddler groups
Baby and toddler groups are informal local groups for children under 5. They often meet regularly and may be free. Parents and carers stay for the whole session.
Crèches
Crèches provide occasional care for children under 8 while parents or carers take part in an activity on the same premises. You may find them in places such as leisure centres, shopping centres or colleges.
Home childcarers
Home childcarers provide childcare for children under 18 in the child’s own home. They must be registered with Ofsted.
A home childcarer may care for children from up to two families at the same time, at the home of one of the families. This is sometimes called a nanny share.
Anyone who cares for children from three or more families at once is classed as a childminder, and must register and follow national regulations.
Nannies and au pairs
Nannies and au pairs provide childcare in your own home and can care for children of any age. They can choose to register with Ofsted, but they do not have to register or have a professional qualification.
You are responsible for agreeing terms with a nanny or au pair. You should also check they are suitable to care for children, such as asking for references or a Criminal Record Disclosure.
Last updated: 7 October 2026