Choosing Childcare old

Centre Based Childcare Facility

A centre based childcare facility is ideal for you if you want your child to mix and socialize with similar aged children in an environment that is centred around early childhood care and education. Whether privately or community run they must be notified to and inspected by the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Child Care (pre-school regulations) 2006. If you wish to view the Early Years services last inspection please go to www.pobal.ie

Community and Private Childcare Services

There are two types of childcare services community and private; the Community work within the Not-for-Profit sector while private is for profit and are self-employed. The only difference between the two is that parents using a community childcare service may avail of reduced rates through the community childcare subvention scheme if the parent is eligible.

Full-Day Care (Crèche, Nursery)

Full day care services offer a structured day care service for children aged 0 – 6 for more than 5 hours per day and may include a sessional pre-school service. Services such as those currently described as day nurseries and crèches are included in this definition. Full day care services are covered under the Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No 2) Regulations 2006 and Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No 2) (Amendment) Regulations 2006

School Age Childcare/Afterschool

Child care for school-going children provided outside of normal school hours where the same children attend the child care facility on a regular basis and access to the service is clearly defined by agreement with parents and guardians. The term “after-school child care” would generally refer to such a service which takes place after school hours during the school term. However, other school-age or “out-of-school” child care facilities may open before the school day, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and-or during school holidays. There is a variety of such services provided, which reflects the diverse needs of families for such child care. There is no notification or inspection system in place for school-age child care.

Home Based Childcare Services

A home based childcare service is ideal for you if you want your child to be cared for in a home environment where they can socialize in a small group of children of varying ages. Home based childcare services can also provide structured educational play and learning.

School Age Childcare/Afterschool

Child care for school-going children provided outside of normal school hours where the same children attend the child care facility on a regular basis and access to the service is clearly defined by agreement with parents and guardians. The term “after-school child care” would generally refer to such a service which takes place after school hours during the school term. However, other school-age or “out-of-school” child care facilities may open before the school day, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and-or during school holidays. There is a variety of such services provided, which reflects the diverse needs of families for such child care. There is no notification or inspection system in place for school-age child care.

Childminder

A Childminding service” means a pre-school service which is offered by a person who single-highhandedly takes care of pre-school children, including the childminder’s own children, in the childminder’s home for a total of more than 2 hours per day. Exceptions do occur. This service refers to pre-school children looked after in the childminder’s home. This service is offered for the full working day or for different periods during the day. Childminders who mind three or more children are covered under the Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No 2) Regulations 2006 and Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No 2) (Amendment)

Regulations 2006. Here is a handy booklet that will assist you if you choose a Childminder: Childminding – A Guide for Parents

Nanny / Au Pair

A Nanny Au Pair is employed by parents to provide childcare in the child’s own home and can look after children of any age. Nannies may be live in or come to your home on a daily basis or as required. There is no legal requirement for a Nanny to be qualified in childcare but many have childcare training. Nannies do not have to notify the HSE pre-school Services. When choosing a nanny it is important that you interview the person and check all references supplied before offering the post. When employing a nanny, the parent should be aware of the relevant employment legislation and have employer’s liability insurance cover.