Types of childcare

Types of childcare

When looking for childcare, it’s a good idea to allow as much time as possible to do your research. Some childcare providers have waiting lists, so contact those you’re interested in as early as possible.

You should also visit providers to find out if they meet your family’s needs before making your decision.

There are several childcare options to choose from in the Caerphilly county borough.

Playgroups and Cylchoedd Meithrin

These offer play and early learning experiences for children under 5 years old. They tend to run in the morning or afternoon, sometimes both, and are usually provided in term time for children aged between 2 and 5 years old. It is important to ask your provider of the days and hours their service operates to make sure it meets your requirements. Some are registered with the Local Authority to offer Early Years Education Places and Flying Start places.

They are registered and inspected by the Care Inspectorate for Wales (CIW).

Day nurseries

These provide full or part-time care for babies and children up to 5 years old. Some may also provide care for older children before or after school, and during school holidays. Some are registered with the Local Authority to offer Early Years Education Places and Flying Start places.

They are usually open from 8am to 6pm and operate all year, including school holidays.

They are registered and inspected by CIW.

Childminders

Childminders provide care for children in the childminder’s own home. They often offer flexible hours and provide a wide range of learning opportunities in and out of the home.

They are registered and inspected by CIW.

Before and after school clubs

These provide care and activities to fit around school hours for school-aged children.

Out-of-school care includes breakfast clubs, wrap-around childcare, after-school clubs (hours may vary between providers) and holiday play schemes during school holidays.

They are registered and inspected by CIW.

Crèches

A crèche provides occasional care for limited periods of time. This could be if you are going shopping, attending a course, or going to the gym. Crèches are not a long-term childcare option, and a parent or carer needs to remain close by.

Nannies

Nannies provide childcare in your own home and can look after children of any age.

Our childcare provider finder does not include home-based carers such as nannies, but search tools are available on specialist websites.

 

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