Understanding Your Childcare Options When Returning to Work

Returning to work following maternity or paternity leave can be a scary time for new parents and many are still unaware of what childcare options are available for them to lead a balanced and happy family life for years to come. We’re here to help you make sense of it all and whilst childcare is certainly not cheap, we can assist you in getting the very best care for your little one and your budget.

There are a number of different types of childcare all of which cater to different age groups and price brackets. Check out the following options currently available for new parents looking to return to work with complete peace of mind.

What Term Time Options are Available?

Day nurseries offer an affordable option for new parents; both care and education are offered by many registered day nurseries from the age of 6 weeks to 5 years. Day nurseries are generally open in term time and the school holidays, with opening hours covering normal office working hours. Depending on your location, you may be entitled to a certain amount of free care, which is calculated on an hours per week basis for children aged 3 and over. Nursery schools are another useful term time option, perfect if you have older children in primary or pre-school. Nursery schools also offer care and education to children aged 3 to 5 years, however, their opening timesare restricted to normal school hours, which may cause problems for some parents working the regular 9 ‘til 5.

Playgroups are also an option especially if you are looking to ease yourself back into work on a part-time basis. Playgroups, or pre-schools as they are sometimes referred to, are either voluntary or community run and price per afternoon or morning session, rather than per week. Again your child may be eligible for free care depending on age and location.

Care in the Home

There are also various options available for childcare to be delivered in your very own home, which is often a comfort to new parents as well as the child. Hiring a professional through an au pair agency can be an excellent option for parents looking for a flexible, affordable and high quality arrangement that fits around work and play.  Nannies also provide a quality option for new parents looking for a long-term childcare solution. Nannies offer daily support for both part-time and full-time working parents and provide their services to cater to yours and your child’s needs. Some nannies can be hired on a live-in basis for a regular arrangement that offers stability for the whole family.

What is the Difference Between a Nanny and an Au Pair?

Whilst au pairs offer a less expensive role in childcare than a nanny, they are predominantly live-in, meaning it is the responsibility of the parent to act as an employer and provide food and lodgings. As mentioned nannies can also be recruited to live in the family home for round the clock assistance. The relationship between child and nanny and child and au pair also differs, whilst nannies are regarded as specialists in childcare with various professional experience, qualifications and training, au pairs take on a more ‘big sister or brother’ role within the family home.

Whether you are looking for a long-term full time arrangement or just a helping hand to get you through the early years of your child’s life with confidence there are a number of childcare options available to suit you, your child and your budget.

County Nannies Recruitment has helped a number of families find the best type of childcarer for them to provide a very different and extra special level of care for children of all ages.