There are a number of different childcare options for parents to choose from. Parents need to look for childcare which best suits both theirs and their child’s needs.
For more help or information on finding childcare providers in the Bradford district, please contact the Families Information Service. (Children's Information Link)
Different types of childcare
Childminders are professional day carers who look after children in their own home. They can offer flexible hours and look after children of all ages from babies to teenagers. Childminders are self employed and must be Ofsted registered.
Day Nurseries look after children aged from 3 months to 5 years. They are usually open all day, all year round but are normally closed during evenings and weekends. Day care nurseries can be private, community, workplace or local authority run. All of them must be registered with Ofsted.
Pre-schools and playgroups offer part-time care and education for children aged 2 to 4 years old during term time. They usually offer sessions, running from 2.5 – 4 hours for children to attend. Pre-schools are registered and regularly inspected by Ofsted
Out of school clubs are for school-age children and provide childcare outside of school hours while parents work. They are usually based in or near schools and staffed by a team of playworkers who will often drop off and pick children up from local schools if the club is not based on a school site. They are usually open before, and after school and during holidays.
Crèches provide care for children for short periods of time. Regular crèches may be part of a sports facility, work place or place of study. Crèches that run for more than six days per year are registered and inspected by Ofsted.
Parent and toddler groups are usually open during term- time only. There is no need to register for them as parents can simply turn up to the group when it is open. Parent and toddler groups do not have to be registered with Ofsted as the parents must stay with their child during these sessions.
Play schemes provide care for school age children during school holidays. Play schemes can be run by private businesses, out of school clubs, employers and universities and charge for childcare. Play schemes that run for more than 6 days per year for children aged under 8 must be registered and inspected by Ofsted.
Nannies provide care for children on domestic premises. There is no requirement for nannies caring for children at home to be registered by Ofsted.
