As a parent finding the right childcare provider for your family can be difficult. It needs to fit with your childcare requirement and offer high quality care that supports, stimulates, and challenges your child’s learning and development.

When looking for a suitable setting:

  • Consider whether you want the setting close to home or close to your workplace. 
  • Allow time prior to needing the childcare, to research and visit as many settings as possible before deciding
  • Read the setting’s recent Ofsted report
  • Read reviews
  • Speak to parents already using the setting

During a visit/ tour of the setting:

  • Does the setting look secure (e.g. enclosed garden, CCTV, secure entrance)?
  • Does the setting make you and your child feel welcome?
  • Does the setting look well maintained?
  • Are children engaged in activities and enjoying themselves?
  • Is there a variety of activities available indoors and outdoors?
  • Is your child given the opportunity to join in activities?
  • Is all the equipment in good condition?
  • Are there suitable toileting / changing facilities?
  • Is there enough staff for the number of children in the room
  • Are the staff happy to speak to you about the setting’s routines and procedures
  • Are you given all the information you need, and your questions answered?
  • Are they open and upfront about fees?

Questions to ask:

  • How will the provider inform you about your child’s day and their developmental progress?
  • How will the provider ensure that your child settles into the provision?
  • How are parents actively encouraged to be involved with their child’s learning and development?
  • What training opportunities do staff have?
  • When was the provision last inspected and what was the judgement?
  • Have Ofsted’s suggested improvements been actioned?
  • What policies and procedures are in place and how are parents informed of these?
  • What is the role of my child’s key person?
  • When and how do you pay for care?
  • How much notice do you have to give if your child leaves the setting?
  • What Early Education Entitlements are available and how is this offered?
  • Are there any additional fees?

Remember:

  • Before agreeing to a childcare place ask the provider exactly what additional costs you will have for the hours you need.
  • You are making a contract with the childcare provider. Always ask enough questions to make sure you are happy with the arrangements before signing.
  • If your child seems unhappy or unsettled in the setting – listen to them and liaise with the setting to try to find solutions. You know your child best.
  • Get involved, ask what your child has done during the day and how you can support their learning at home.

For further help contact Information for Families Service (IfF)

The Information for Families Service enables the Local Authority to meet their statutory duties to provide information, advice and assistance to parents and carers and prospective parents, and to secure sufficient childcare for working parents.

Parents can contact the Information for Families Service to enquire about childcare providers within their area or across the city and ask about funded places by calling 01902 554242 or emailing iff@wolverhampton.gov.uk

Complex enquiries will be passed onto the Early Years team, who will support families further.