Entrusting a stranger with your child is a big step, so before you choose childcare it's really important to do your research first. 

Ofsted Registration  

All childminders and day-care providers caring for young children - including playgroups, pre-schools, private nurseries, crèches and out-of-school clubs for under eights - must be registered by Ofsted on the Early Years Register (or in Wales, by the Care Standards Inspectorate). Registration includes a criminal records check on anyone involved in providing childcare and an inspection of the premises to look at health and safety and educational welfare issues. Childcare providers caring for older children (aged five to seven years), must join the compulsory part of the Ofsted Childcare Register.You can check that the childcare provider is registered by asking to see a registration certificate, or by contacting Ofsted. If you have any doubts about a provider, check with your local Families Information Service (FIS). You can get the number of your nearest FIS by calling 0800 234 6346. In England, childcare for children aged eight and over, or care for children of any age that is based around one or two activities, or is provided in the child's home (eg nannies), does not have to be registered by Ofsted. However, if the provider meets the requirements and wishes to register on the voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register it can do so, unless the childcare is provided directly by a school. 

Do your own research

It is always a good idea to visit childcare providers yourself - inspections and accreditation are no substitute for parental judgment.If you're thinking of employing a nanny, bear in mind that compulsory government-sponsored registration and accreditation schemes do not apply to them - although they can join the Ofsted Childcare Register voluntarily. It is up to you, as parent and employer, to make sure that you hire a nanny who will look after your children well. 

• Sure Start Children's Centres - offer early learning, childcare, health advice and family support for families with children up to age five.
• Crèches - provide occasional care for children under eight.
• Toddler Groups - informal groups of parents and carers that meet locally with their children on a regular bais, usually including children who are under five.
• Pre-Schools and Playgroups - provide play time and often early education to under fives.
• Day Nurseries - provice care for children normally from three monthe to four or five and beyond, often integrated with early education and other services.
• Out-of-School or 'Kids' Clubs - offer school-aged children a safe and stimulating environment in which they can play and learn outside of school hours.
• Childminders - usually look after children under twelve in the childminder's own home and often collect school-aged children from a nearby school.
• Nannies - provide childcare in your own home and can look after children of any age.