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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 70 per cent of your childcare costs back.

• Childcare benefits, tax credits and other help for working parents

Free early learning for them, more time for you

It’s also worth knowing that three and four year olds are entitled to 15 hours of free nursery education a week. This is for 38 weeks of the year, and is available from nurseries, children's centres, playgroups, pre-schools or childminders. And if you're looking for flexible childcare for more than 15 hours a week, there are lots of affordable options.

Finding childcare in your area

For advice on how to choose childcare, and to find out what is available in your area, follow the link below.

• Finding and choosing childcare

Useful contacts

• Parents contacts