Finding Local Childcare in Redhill & Reigate

4 Feb

I don’t make recommendations because every family is different and it’s important to consider your unique needs, priorities and situation. Please consider this an unbiased central resource for information, I hope you find it useful.

Options Available

Provisions registered with OFSTED

Nursery:
Typically open all year round, most offer longer days at a fixed premises, accessing a wide range of activities that support early education and diverse social opportunities.
Childminder:
Care provided in the childminder’s home that supports early education. Care offered is usually more flexible and personal.
Preschool:
Term Time only option, usually with a choice for morning, afternoon or full day sessions. They are generally open from 9am to 3pm.

Provisions not registered with OFSTED

Nanny:
Childcare provided in your home and can look after children of any age. Employing a nanny comes with legal and financial responsibilities, however tools such as Quinn UK are available for managing.
Doula/Mothers Help:
I don’t consider myself a childcare provider. My role is to the support the mother and respond to their needs, to lighten their mental load, be an extra pair of hands and a listening ear. Sometimes this support does involve occasional sole care of a child/children whilst parents run errands or need some time and space alone, typically for babies under 1 year.Consider my postnatal support packages for occasional support rather than regular childcare.
Au pair:
Working as a cultural exchange, au pairs not are treated as employees, working hours are capped at 30hrs per week. Living in your family home, they often look after the children of their host family and undertake other related duties such as light housework in exchange for accommodation and the opportunity to explore the host country and culture.
Creche:
Some creches are in permanent premises such as leisure centres or shopping centres and may only be available to parents that are using the facility. Other creches run on a temporary basis and are set up to care for children while their parents are involved in time limited activities such as a conference or exhibition.

Consider your contract

Prepare and expect to pay for days when your child isn’t at your childcare provider. For example if they are sick or on holiday. Paying for childcare when a child is absent is standard practice, as contracts with nurseries and childminders usually require payment for booked sessions to secure the place, regardless of attendance. It is worth considering how bank holidays will affect you in advance.