• All registered childcare in England must meet national standards set down by the Department for Education and Skills
  
• Children’s' information services hold lists of registered out-of-schools clubs, playgroups and children’s leisure activities
  
• Talk to other parents. Personal recommendations are helpful, but you should take up at least two references
  
• Make a list of questions and take it with you when you visit each childcare centre
  
• Make sure the childcare provider knows how to contact you in an emergency and who you will allow to collect your child
  
• If you are considering a private foster carer, you must contact your local social services office
  
  

As a parent you are often the best judge of whether a childcare service will suit your child. When you leave your child in the care of others, you might want to check that:

• Their needs are being met and respected.
• Their cultural background is recognised.
• They will be happy there.
• The atmosphere feels right.
• There is a settling in arrangement.
• A stable group of children attends so your child can make friends.
• Mealtimes are relaxed and fun.
• The outside area is well planned and spacious.
• Activities are varied and carefully planned.

Ensure that your child is left in secure premises and that well trained and experienced staff are caring for your child. You will also want the opportunity to get involved and know about what your child is doing day to day.
The main types of childcare available are:

Day nurseries are for the under 5s for the length of the working day. Social Services, voluntary organisations, private companies, individuals, business or community groups might run them. They are registered and inspected by OfSTED.

Playgroups are for children aged between 3 and 5. Sessions usually last no longer than four hours. Most of them are run by groups of parents with one or two paid staff.

Out-of-school clubs, or kids clubs, provide sessional play and care for school-aged children from 3 upwards. There are breakfast clubs, after-school clubs and holiday playschemes. They are inspected by OfSTED once a year.

If your child is between 3 and 4 years old, they might be entitled to a free part time nursery place. Early education and nursery classes are usually open during term time. Children can attend all day or just on a sessional basis. Contact your Early Years Development centre for more information.

Private fostering is very different from the care provided by local councils through approved foster carers. It occurs when a child under 16 is cared for for more than 28 days by an adult who is not a close relative, by private arrangement between the parent and the carer. If you are thinking about placing your child with a private foster carer, or becoming a foster carer, the first thing you must do is contact your local social services area office. Social Services are required by law to approve such arrangements. The prospective foster carer will need as much information as possible about your child (including medical history) and Social Services can give you a form to help with this.

As the birth parents, you retain full parental responsibility. You must remain in touch with the private foster carer and participate in all decision-making processes concerning your child’s life.