A Parents' Guide to Childcare in Tameside

An Introduction to Childcare

Choosing the right childcare for your child is an important step. In Tameside there are a range of options from which you can choose the right setting for your child.

But how do you know what's what? Where will you find the right advice to guide and help you in making the right choice for your child and you?

This page explains the different types of settings available for your child and a checklist you should go through before choosing your childcare setting.

Good childcare can play a major part in helping the development of your child as well as providing you with the freedom you want to fulfil your own needs.

Hundreds of parents/carers place their children in suitable childcare settings every year with the help of guidance, information and advice from appropriate sources and agencies.

Make the Right Choices

There are four key types of setting in which you can place your child.

• Private Day Nursery
• Before and After School Clubs and Holiday Clubs
• Play Group/Pre-school
• Childminder

The setting you choose will depend on a number of key factors including:

• The age of your child
• The number of hours you require your child to be looked after
• Where you live
• The cost of the childcare
• The financial help to which you may be entitled
• Your child's personality
• Any specific requirements you or your child may have

When choosing the right childcare setting for your child you will, naturally, need to know that they will be happy and safe. Below is a 10-step checklist that you should run through when making your choice.

• Decide which daycare meets the needs of you and your child
• Always check that the daycare facility or childminder is registered with Ofsted, and has valid public liability insurance.
• Take your time before you decide to start your child. Visit, look around, feel the atmosphere - do you feel comfortable?
• Are you and your child made welcome?
• Do other children there look happy and well cared for?
• Go more than once - ask questions.
• Discuss your child's needs and your needs.
• Always agree a contract. Have a copy of the agreement for yourself.
• Find out about the facility, its day-to-day activities, hygiene and safety, meals and snacks, holidays and how much it will cost.
• Contact Tameside Families Information Service for any further assistance or advice - 0161 342 4260.