Choosing childcare
You may wish to consider the following factors:
What is available in the area? - See Section on Liverpool Children's Information Service
Do the hours of opening meet my needs?
What will the likely costs be?
Is there a place available for my child?
How do I find out what is available?
Can I access a free education place?
Once you have considered these factors, you now need to visit and begin to make a choice. The following questions may be useful at this stage:
Can I see your registration certificate?
What are your terms (fees, notice to leave, holiday provision etc?)
Are you aware and responsive to cultural and individual needs?
Can I see your most recent inspection/OFSTED report?
Can I speak to parents of children you already care for?
Does my child seem happy and comfortable here?
You will also need to feel confident in your choice so ask yourself:
Are there plenty of suitable toys and space?
Are the premises safe and clean?
Were you made to feel welcome?
Are the children lovingly cared for?
Is there evidence of children having fun?
You now need to discuss the details with your chosen provider and agree a 'contract' so you will now need to ask the following questions:
What is included in my fees? (food, nappies, outings etc)
What happens when either of us takes a holiday or is sick?
Is a retainer fee required?
How will we monitor my child's progress/development?
How do you deal with social matters? (Discipline; treats or sweets; toilet training etc)
How will we deal with a situation if either of us is unhappy?
What will happen in an emergency?
If you are looking for childcare in Liverpool, please complete the following form:
Looking for Childcare in Liverpool
To find the latest Childcare Inspection Report www.ofsted.gov.uk/reports/
If you enquiring about registering as a childcare provider, please complete the following form:
Registering as a Childcare Provider
Need help with your childcare costs