There are two types of childcare – formal and informal. Most of the support described in the information included on this website is only available to pay for formal care.
What is formal childcare?
This is childcare that is registered with Ofsted in England or through the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales.
Such childcare includes:
- childminders;
- children's centres;
- day nurseries;
- extended schools;
- holiday playschemes/clubs;
- preschools/playgroups;
- nursery schools and classes; and
- registered or approved nannies (although are not legally required to register)
- some parent/carer and toddler groups (although are not legally required to register).
What is informal childcare?
This is any childcare that is not registered with Ofsted in England or through the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales. This may include childcare that you use on an occasional basis and includes:
- friends and relatives;
- babysitters and au pairs;
- care for children aged eight and over (although can opt to become registered on the voluntary Ofsted Childcare Register); and
- any other unregistered childcarers, such as unregistered nannies.