Childcare in York

When it comes to choosing childcare there are lots of options to think about. If you would like to speak to somebody about your options please contact York Family Information Service on 01904 554444 or text "childcare" to 07624 802244 and we will call you back.

	What different childcare options are there?  Childminders, nurseries, breakfast clubs... There are lots of different types of childcare to choose from. Finding Childcare in York You can search for childcare online or get a personalised list from York Family Information Service. Choosing Childcare—How can I make sure I get good quality childcare? York Family Information Service have put together some top tips and things to look out for when you are choosing childcare. Reduce your childcare bills There are lots of different ways of reducing the cost of childcare but it can be confusing to know where you stand. We've collected together some of the main ways of reducing your childcare costs and also where you can find more information.

Does childcare meet families' needs?

City of York Council works in partnership with other agencies and childcare providers to make sure that childcare in York matches the needs of local families.

We do this in lots of different ways and you can find out more through the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment section.

What is the Early Years Foundation Stage?

You may hear people talk about something called the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

To help people understand what it means we've produced a short guide to the EYFS.

Registered or not registered—what does it mean?

Some childcare is regulated and inspected by the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted). This means that Ofsted have checked that a set of standards have been met and that a childcare provider is suitable to look after children. Some childcare is unregistered which means that checking how suitable the care is rests with the parent or carer.

York Family Information Service have a short guide to how Ofsted registered childcare works.

For more information see the Ofsted website.

What are Extended Services?

Over the past few years, schools have been extending the services they offer. Many now open up their facilities outside school hours for pupils, their families and the local community.

Read the Extended Services section to find out what this might mean for you.