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Affordable childcare: great for your kids, great for you
Whether it’s learning music, brushing up on their art, mastering karate kicks or just getting on with some quiet study - there’s loads of ways that kids can benefit from childcare and out-of-school clubs.
It’s a great way for kids of all ages to develop new skills and talents through learning and playing with other children in a well-organised, safe and structured environment. And by freeing up your time, it gives you lots of options too – whether you're working, looking to get back to work, studying or just looking to make life a little less hectic.
More options for you, more fun for them
To help make your life easier, there are lots of affordable childcare options. There's a wide range of pre-schools, nurseries, breakfast clubs, after school clubs, childminders and holiday play-schemes for you to choose from. Why not talk to your local school about the clubs they offer or check out your local Sure Start Children's Centre?
And remember that when you use childcare that's Ofsted registered, you'll know it's met clear standards designed to provide a safe and secure environment for your children.
Affordable for you, brilliant for them
You may find that formal childcare isn't as expensive as you thought. Many families can receive help with the cost through the childcare element of Working Tax Credit. If you use registered or approved childcare, depending on your income, you could get up to 80 per cent of your childcare costs back. And if you live in London there's extra help through the Childcare Affordability Programme.
Free early learning for them, more time for you
It’s also worth knowing that three and four year olds are entitled to 12 and a half hours free early education per week - available from nurseries, playgroups, pre-schools or childminders - for 38 weeks of the year. And if you're looking for flexible childcare for more than 12 and a half hours a week, there are lots of affordable options.
Finding childcare in your area online and over the phone
To find out about childcare providers in your area, click on the link below to go to the childcare finder and enter your postcode.
If you would like to speak to someone about affordable childcare in your area and what it can do for you and your child, call 0800 2346 346 to be put through to your local Families Information Service (FIS).
Alternatively, to get contact details for your local FIS online, click on the link below.
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