Coronavirus (COVID-19)
England is at Step Two of the roadmap out of lockdown. Restrictions are still in place.
We understand that as a parent or carer it can be difficult to make an informed choice about childcare. What is childcare? Where do I start looking? How do I know my child will be safe?
For children who have not yet started school, there are a number of options available for childcare, including; childminders, nurseries and pre-schools.
What is the difference?
You can search for Portsmouth Childcare here. You can also post your requirements on the Portsmouth Find a Childminder Facebook page which is managed by Portsmouth Childminders, and they will reply to you directly about available places. You can also watch this video about a Portsmouth childminder.
Your choice of childcare depends on the hours you work, your transport options and other commitments you may have such as school-runs for older children or studying. You can place your child with more than one childcarer. Some parents use a combination of a childminder and a pre-school/nursery to suit their requirements.
The activities your child will take part in vary depending on the childcare provider and your child’s age. Registered childcare for 0-5 years will follow the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, a set of standards the childcare provider must follow to help your child learn and develop.
EYFS focuses on learning through play. The areas of learning are:
Childcare providers also have a duty to consider how best to offer extra support for children with a disability or special educational needs – talk to the provider about any specific requirements your child has.
If you’re struggling to secure childcare and need some help – email us at fis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or give us a call on 023 9268 8830.
You will probably have lots of questions when choosing a new childcare provider – here are a few to get you started:
Depending on the age of your child and your circumstances, you may be eligible for childcare funding. Find out more on the ‘help with childcare costs’ pages.