What is the difference between nursery and childcare?

"Nursery" typically refers to a place or facility where young children, usually toddlers up to around three years old, are taken care of during the day. These establishments focus on early childhood education, providing activities that promote learning, socialization, and development appropriate for that age group. Nurseries often have structured schedules, incorporate play-based learning, and may introduce basic educational concepts. "Childcare," on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses the care and supervision of children, covering a wider age range from infancy to pre-adolescence. Childcare facilities or services offer care, supervision, and sometimes educational activities for children when their parents or guardians are unavailable, such as during work hours. Childcare can include nurseries for younger children, preschool programs, after-school care, and even programs during school holidays.

What age should a child start nursery?

The ideal age for a child to start nursery can vary depending on several factors including the child's development, family circumstances, and personal preferences. However, many nurseries accept children from around three months to three years old. Parents often consider starting nursery when their child is between two and three years old. This age range allows children to benefit from the social interaction and early learning experiences that nurseries provide.

When should I start looking at nurseries?

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

When should I start looking at nurseries?

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

How much is nursery per hour in UK?

On average, nursery fees in the UK can range from around £6 to £10 per hour. However, the cost of nursery per hour in the UK varies widely based on multiple factors such as location, the specific nursery, age of the child, and the services offered.

How to find a nursery school place?

Finding a nursery school place involves initial research to identify suitable options based on location, fees, and educational approach. Contact the shortlisted nurseries to inquire about availability, admission criteria, and fees. Schedule visits to assess the environment, staff interactions, and facilities. Once you've decided on a nursery, understand their application process and deadlines. Some may require filling out forms or paying a registration fee. If there's a waiting list, consider getting your child's name on it promptly to enhance the chances of securing a spot. Maintain communication with the nursery staff throughout the waiting period to demonstrate your continued interest. You can easily find nurseries in your area on nurseriesandschools.org

How do I find the right nursery for my child?

Finding the right nursery involves factors like location, educational approach, facilities, and staff qualifications. Start by researching nearby nurseries, checking online reviews, and seeking recommendations from other parents. Visit potential nurseries to observe the environment, how staff interact with children, and assess if it aligns with your child's needs and your preferences for early education. Ask about curriculum, safety measures, and opportunities for social interaction. Trust your instincts and choose a nursery that feels safe, nurturing, and stimulating for your child's developmental needs. Additionally, consider the nursery's educational philosophy, staff qualifications, and the overall atmosphere. Ensure it provides a balance between structured learning and play-based activities, fostering a supportive environment that encourages your child's social, emotional, and academic development. Effective communication and a positive relationship between the nursery and your family are also vital aspects to consider. Nurseriesandschools.org is a one stop solution for your nursery searches.

What time do nurseries open and close?

Most nurseries in the UK typically operate within a range of hours that accommodate working parents. Generally, nursery hours might start as early as 7:30 or 8:00 AM and can extend until 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Some nurseries might offer extended hours or flexible drop-off and pick-up times for parents who require childcare outside of these standard hours, accommodating varying work schedules.

What is the aim of a day nursery?

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning. Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

What is the aim of a day nursery?

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning. Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

What age groups are in a day nursery?

Day nurseries typically cater to a range of age groups within early childhood.Day nurseries are for children aged 3 months to 5 years of age. The age groups in a day nursery often include: Babies and Infants: Nurseries may have separate rooms or sections specifically designed for infants, usually from around three months old up to approximately 18 months or two years. Toddlers: Another group within day nurseries is typically toddlers, ranging from around 18 months to three years old. These children might be in a separate area or group within the nursery to cater to their specific needs and developmental stages. Preschoolers: Day nurseries often have spaces for preschool-aged children, usually from around three to five years old. These children might participate in more structured learning activities and preparations for formal schooling.

What comes first nursery or playgroup?

Playgroup comes first. Nursery and playgroup differ significantly in their formality and educational focus. Playgroup primarily centers on play, entertainment, and introductory activities like painting, coloring, and socializing. In contrast, nursery education is more structured, emphasizing various subjects such as math and language. It serves as a foundational educational environment, introducing young children to fundamental concepts like math, language skills, and values in a playful manner, preparing them for later entry assessments into reputable kindergarten programs. The atmosphere in playschools is notably relaxed and playful, fostering a casual environment for children. In contrast, the nursery provides a child's initial exposure to formal education, setting the stage for a more structured learning journey.

Why is nursery important in school?

Nurseries are essential in schools as they provide the foundational education and social development crucial for a child's early years. They focus on holistic development, introducing basic concepts like language, numeracy, and social skills in a structured yet nurturing environment. This early exposure prepares children for the routines and expectations of formal schooling, fostering independence, confidence, and the ability to interact with peers and adults. Moreover, nurseries play a pivotal role in identifying any developmental needs early on, allowing for timely support and intervention. They serve as the initial step in a child's educational journey, setting the stage for future academic success and providing the groundwork for social and cognitive development that forms the basis for later learning experiences.

What is day care for children?

Daycare for children refers to a facility or service that provides care, supervision, and sometimes early education for children during the day while their parents or guardians are at work or unavailable. Daycare centres cater to children of various ages, from infants to pre-adolescents, offering a safe and nurturing environment where children engage in age-appropriate activities, play, and socialization. The primary focus of daycare is to ensure the well-being and safety of children while their parents are away. Daycare centres typically have trained staff who oversees the children, offering meals, structured activities, playtime, and sometimes educational programs tailored to different age groups.

Is nursery part of preschool?

Yes, nurseries are a type of preschool. The term "preschool" is a broad category that encompasses early childhood education for children before they enter formal schooling. Nurseries specifically refer to early education and care centers for young children, typically between the ages of three months to five years old.

What comes after pre nursery?

After pre-nursery, children usually progress to nursery or preschool, depending on the specific terminologies used by different educational settings. Pre-nursery serves as an introductory stage for very young children, usually between the ages of two to three, preparing them for a more structured learning environment.

How do you start a nursery?

Starting a nursery involves several key steps and considerations: Research and Planning: Begin by conducting thorough research into the requirements and regulations for starting a nursery in your area or country. Understand the legal and licensing requirements, as well as zoning regulations and health and safety standards that apply to childcare facilities. Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan outlining your nursery's concept, mission, target market, services offered, staffing plan, operational structure, budget, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your nursery's establishment and operation. Secure Funding: Determine the financial resources needed to start and sustain the nursery. Explore funding options such as personal investment, loans, grants, or partnerships to cover startup costs, including facility setup, equipment, staffing, insurance, and initial operational expenses. Location and Facilities: Choose an appropriate location for your nursery that complies with zoning regulations and is accessible and safe for children and families. Ensure the facility meets licensing standards regarding space requirements, safety features, and amenities suitable for childcare. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Obtain the required licenses and permits to operate a childcare facility in your area. This typically involves fulfilling regulatory requirements, health inspections, background checks for staff, and meeting specific standards set by local authorities or governing bodies. Staffing and Training: Recruit qualified and experienced staff members who are passionate about early childhood education and childcare. Provide necessary training and certifications required for working in a nursery, including first aid and child safeguarding training. Develop Policies and Procedures: Establish clear policies and procedures for enrollment, health and safety protocols, curriculum, parent communication, discipline, and emergency procedures. Ensure these policies comply with regulatory standards and are communicated effectively to staff and parents. Market and Advertise: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your nursery and attract families. Utilize various channels such as social media, websites, local advertising, and community outreach to reach your target audience. Starting a nursery requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. Seeking guidance from experts in childcare regulations or business development can also be beneficial in this process.

Why are nurseries closing?

Several factors contribute to the closure of nurseries in the UK; a main reason for these challenges was inadequate funding levels, which were made worse by the impact of Covid-19. The other factors include: Changes in Government Funding: Changes to government funding and subsidy schemes for childcare can significantly impact nurseries. Economic Challenges: Economic downturns or uncertain financial climates can affect parents' ability to afford nursery fees. Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on many sectors, including childcare. Competition and Market Demand: In some areas, there might be oversaturation or insufficient demand for nursery services. Regulatory Requirements: Compliance with strict regulatory requirements, such as staff-to-child ratios, health and safety standards, and educational guidelines etc can lead to nursery closures.

Why is a childminder better than a nursery?

Whether a childminder or a nursery is better for a child depends on various factors, including the child's needs, family circumstances, and personal preferences. Each option has its own advantages. Whereas childminders have: Individualized Care: Childminders typically care for fewer children in a home setting, allowing for more personalized attention. Flexibility: Childminders may offer more flexible hours compared to nurseries, catering to individual family schedules. Continuity of Care: With a childminder, children often experience more consistent care from the same individual over time. Home-Like Environment: Being in a home setting with a childminder can provide a homely and comforting atmosphere, which some children may prefer over a more institutional setting.

Why are nurseries so expensive?

Several factors contribute to the high cost of nurseries in the UK: Operating Costs: Running a nursery involves significant expenses, including staffing (salaries and training), rent or property costs, utilities, insurance, educational resources, and maintaining a safe and stimulating environment. Staffing Ratios and Qualifications: Nurseries in the UK are required to maintain specific staff-to-child ratios and employ qualified staff, which can impact costs. Limited Government Subsidies: While the government provides some financial support for childcare through schemes like the Tax-Free Childcare and 30 Hours Free Childcare for eligible families, the subsidies might not cover the full cost of nursery fees. This leaves a considerable portion of the cost burden on parents. Location and Demand: Nursery fees can vary based on geographical location and local demand. In areas with high living costs or high demand for childcare services, nurseries might charge higher fees to cover their expenses and maintain quality standards. Quality of Services: Nurseries that offer high-quality education, trained staff, specialized programs, and better facilities may charge higher fees to cover these enhanced services.

Nurseries Elmbridge Area | Find Childcare in Elmbridge Area

Danesfield Manor School

Rydens Avenue Walton-on-Thames KT12 3JB South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

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Little Bears Day-Care

Whiteley Village Cricket Club Coombe Lane Walton-on-Thames KT12 4EL South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Little Bears Day Care provides childcare from the age of two-to five-years-old, offering an environment that is calm, welcoming and will nurture each child during their social and emotional development.At Little Bears, staff believe that children's natural curiosity should be encouraged. Childr...

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Little Dreams Day Nursery Thames Ditton

1 Weston Avenue Thames Ditton KT7 0NB South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

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Molesey Day Nursery

Imber Court Sports Club Ember Lane East Molesey KT8 0BT South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

We are very proud and excited to announce our brand new nursery, located within 90 acres of beautiful parkland of Imber Court in East Molesey. The nursery offers a fantastic setting for babies, toddlers and preschool children within a caring, professional, fun and very safe environment. Esher statio...

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Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-On-Thames

Rivendell Court 174 Terrace Road Walton-on-Thames KT12 2ED South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-on-Thames focus their childcare and education on learning through play for children aged three months to pre-school age.The friendly and nurturing staff engage children in planned, safe and fun activities in the purposely designed rooms. The rooms and resources ...

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Muddy Puddles Pre-School

Long Ditton Cricket Club "Stokes Field Betts Way" Surbiton KT6 5HT South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Muddy Puddles Pre-school is an Ofsted Outstanding Provider (December 2019). Situated on a spacious cricket field surrounded by the woodland area, Stokes Field Nature Reserve. Outdoor learning is an important part of the curriculum at Muddy Puddles.The children have ample opportunities to spend ...

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Perfect Start Day Nursery - Cobham

Cedar Road Cobham KT11 2AA South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

The newly-opened Cobham nursery (summer 2020) has been fully refurbished to a very high quality specification. The building is fully air-conditioned throughout and has cctv in all rooms. There is a garden area and a fantastic range of toys and equipment for the children to play with and learn f...

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Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames

1 Kings Road Walton-on-Thames KT12 2RA South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames is due to open in Summer 2021.The purpose-built nursery will provide childcare and education for children aged 6 weeks to five years.Facilities and features will include a beautiful outdoor play area and a dedicated parent room to watch their child s...

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Puffins Pre-School Day Nursery - Walton-On-Thames

Cambridge Road Walton-on-Thames KT12 2DP South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Puffinâs strive to provide outstanding care for children aged 2-5 years old, giving them the best opportunity to grow and develop their knowledge and skills whilst having lots of fun!Aiming to provide a home-from-home environment that is safe, nurturing and stimulating, Puffin...

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The Butterfly Patch - Cobham

St Johns Church Hall Copse Road Cobham KT11 2TW South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

The Butterfly Patch in Cobham provides excellent childcare to little ones aged 3 months to 5 years over 51 weeks of the year. Their long hours are suited to all families as we are open from 7:30am to 6:30pm, offering full days, AM and PM sessions.They strive to provide outstanding care and educ...

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The Butterfly Patch - Hampton Court

70 Bridge Road Molesey East Molesey KT8 9HF South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

The Butterfly Patch Hampton Court is a world school where children under five spend most of their days outside exploring the world around them. Open long hours from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm, with optional extended hours from 7 am.In a great commuter location, the nursery offers full and half-day sess...

274 Portsmouth Road Cobham KT11 1HU South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Conveniently located a short drive from Cobham station, our Ofsted Outstanding nursery features a large mature garden and beautifully light rooms â full of sparkling clean air (thanks to our hi-spec air filtration system!).For parents, our parent breakfast bar and drop of...

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N Weybridge Nursery

4 Balfour Road Weybridge KT13 8HD South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

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Danesfield Manor School

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Little Bears Day-Care

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Little Dreams Day Nursery Thames Ditton

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Molesey Day Nursery

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Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-On-Thames

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Muddy Puddles Pre-School

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Perfect Start Day Nursery - Cobham

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Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames

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Puffins Pre-School Day Nursery - Walton-On-Thames

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The Butterfly Patch - Cobham

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The Butterfly Patch - Hampton Court

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Ashburton House Day Nursery

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Bevendean Pre-Prep At Danes Hill School

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Bright Horizons Hinchley Wood Day Nursery And Preschool

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Bright Horizons Sandown Park Day Nursery And Preschool

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Bright Horizons Weybridge Day Nursery And Preschool

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Building Blocks Pre-School Daycare

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Busy Bees In Thames Ditton

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Caterpillars Nursery School

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Cherrylands Nursery

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Claremont Fan Court School Nursery

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Cobham Montessori School

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Colets Nursery

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Downside Nursery School

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Glenangels Childcare

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Home From Home Childrens Day Care Ltd - West Molesey

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Lilliput Childrens Centre

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Little Acorns Day Nursery Forest School

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Little Angels Nursery - Cobham

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Little Angels Stoke Pre-School

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Little Gems Montessori

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Marlborough House Nursery School

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Merry-Go-Round Ltd

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N Cobham Nursery

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N Weybridge Nursery

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Notre Dame Prep School Nursery

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Nuffy Bear Day Nursery Surbiton

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Rowan Preparatory School

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Sapphires Nursery School

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St Georges Weybridge Nursery