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Being a new or expecting parent can be overwhelming. We put together the common questions below to give you the key information you need to make the right choice for your child. Use ourchildcare cost calculator to estimate expenses, or explore nurseries near you.
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Childcare cost calculator
Confused about childcare costs and benefits? You're not the only one. Our calculator tools helps parents work out how much their childcare will cost, and how much government support they'll be eligible for.
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Frequently asked questions
Being a new or expecting parent can be overwhelming. We put together the common questions below to give you the key information you need to make the right choice for your child.
In the UK, there are several types of children's nurseries, each offering different types of care and educational experiences.
Hours, cost and school holiday opening can vary significantly between day nurseries, preschools, playgroups and alternative nurseries. It's important to understand how they vary before you start your search.
Here are some important points to make sure you consider as part of your nursery search:
Location - is close to home or work most convenient? Are you likely to move house?
Opening times – do they suit around your working commitments?
Age of children – does the nursery offer places for the desired start age of your child?
Inspection reports – does the nursery meet the professional requirements, how do they score?
Digital media – do they have virtual tours, staff interview videos and professional photography?
Nursery costs can vary significantly due to a number of factors:
Location - is close to home or work most convenient? Are you likely to move house?
Age of child – younger children are sometimes more expensive due to the higher number of staff required.
Government support - this can be complex and varies by country within the UK, however it is generally dependent on parents earning and weighted towards older children (3 & 4) years old. Our calculator tool can help!
Days/hours in nursery – some nurseries offer discounts for a certain number of days. Most offer either full or half days, with a minimum commitment per week.
The childcare costs calculator can help you plan for the future:
Cost calculatorNursery waiting lists can be a stressful hurdle for parents seeking childcare. These lists operate like a queue, often starting at birth or even before, with priority sometimes given to siblings, local families, or those with workplace connections. Demand tends to be highest in urban areas and popular cities like London, Edinburgh, and Bristol, where long waits are common. To improve your chances, apply early, be flexible with days and hours, and stay in touch with the nursery.
Several factors can influence your position on a waiting list. Applying early is key, as is flexibility with your requested schedule. Nurseries often favor full-time and year-round placements. Sibling priority and proximity to the nursery can also play a role. Remember to communicate regularly with the nursery to demonstrate your continued interest. If facing long waits, consider alternative childcare options like childminders or nanny shares while you wait for a nursery spot.
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