Considering using childcare?

A few things parents should consider if they are planning using Merthyr Tydfil’s childcare provision:

  • Think about your child’s needs, every child is different. Would they be happier in a busy, large nursery or with a smaller group cared for by a childminder?
  • How old is your child? Could you consider an out of school club or holiday club for your older children?
  • Consider how many hours you would like or need, and whether these can be consistent each week. Some childcare settings require set hours, but others are more flexible, and if you only want one morning a week, it could cost you less than £10 per session.
  • You may not work, but would like a few hours to yourself a week, something which is proven to be beneficial to both you and your child!  Could a playgroup be ideal for both of you?
  • You could be working full-time, part-time or shifts. Don’t forget that employers have to consider reasonably all requests for flexible working, could this help you?
  • Can you access free provision? 2-3 year olds in certain areas of Merthyr Tydfil can access free childcare and other services through the Flying Start programme – click HERE to find out more.
  • You could also get help with childcare costs via Tax Credits or Vouchers via your employer. You don’t have to be working to claim Child Tax Credits (https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/child-tax-credit), but if you do you can also claim the Working Tax Credit (https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/working-tax-credit)
  • Good to know - in 2017 there will be a new Tax Free Childcare scheme launched to replace vouchers, where you can get 20p for every 80p paid for by the Government. Here is a great guide to the new scheme. (https://www.turn2us.org.uk/Benefit-guides/Tax-Free-Childcare/Can-I-get-Tax-Free-Childcare).
  • Remember, ALL children can access 10 hours of free nursery education from the term after their third birthday. This can be at a school nursery, or with a registered education provider. All Registered Education Provider settings are registered with the Local Education Authority (LEA) to deliver early years education and are inspected by Estyn (HMI for Education and Training in Wales).
  • What type of learning and play opportunities do you want your child to experience? Using more than one childcare setting could give them opportunities to meet different friends, and experience play in different settings. Could this work for you?

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