Help I need to organise Childcare!

Going back to work and confused about which childcare options to take? When I first went back to work there was no compromise. My mother was the only one I felt comfortable with looking after my children, who better to trust, they were so precious to me I wouldn't entertain an alternative. When my dad died and it became harder for mum to pick the kids up from school because she didnt drive, I had to look for childcare. But what are the best options and what do you need to look out for?

Nursery schools and classes

Nursery schools provide early learning and childcare for children between three and five years old (some will take children from two-and-a-half). They are often based at Sure Start Children's Centres, or linked to an infant or primary school.
Pre-schools and playgroups
Usually run by voluntary groups, pre-schools and playgroups provide part-time play and early learning for under fives. Three and four year olds can get their 12.5 hours of weekly free early learning at these providers
Day Nurseries
Provide care and activities for children from birth to five years. Usually open from 7 am - 7pm

Childminders

Provide childcare for children up to twelve years old.  Childminders work from their own home.  Hours are generally 8am to 6pm but most Childminders can be flexible.  Can offer pickups from Pre-schools or playgroups

Nannies
Can either live with you in your home or come to your home.  Nannies can look after children of any age.  Whether they live in or not their hours can be flexible.

Once you have made a choice on which care provider most suits you, here are some points to help you with your final decision:-

1. Ask if you can visit a couple of times to see how your child settles in.  Most childcare providers are happy to have a settling in period.
2. Do they have a friendly feel?
3. Is it clean, bright and fresh, do the children have enough space both indoors and outdoors?
4. Do the children look happy?
5. Is there somewhere that children can rest?
6. Are there enough staff to look after the children?
7. What are the policies for managing behaviour?
8. What training do the carers have?
9. Do they have registered First Aiders?
10. How secure are the premises?
11. What happens if a child becomes ill?

There are some great forms of childcare out there. Make sure you go with what is comfortable and less stressful both for you and your child.