Childcare options
After-school clubs
Provide a safe environment for children after school and
offer a wide range of play activities. Clubs are generally linked
with local schools and provide a collection service to the venue.
Search the
National Childcare database for after-school
clubs in the borough.
Breakfast clubs
Provide a safe environment for children before school,
usually from around 8am until lessons begin. They will take your
children to school in time for their first lesson or registration.
Search the
National Childcare database under out-of-school
clubs for breakfast clubs in the borough.
Children’s centres
The Children’s Centres programme is based on the
idea that providing integrated services improves outcomes for young
children and their families. The purpose of each centre is to offer
joined up services including education, childcare, family support
and health services.
In Ealing there are many examples of integrated services,
which are continuously developing at each centre. By contacting
your local
Children’s Centre you can learn more about what
is happening within a particular area or at an individual
centre.
Childminders
Care for children in the childminder's home and are
registered to look after a maximum of up to six children under
eight. This includes their own, with no more than three children
under five, and one under twelve months. We have childminders who
speak different languages, pick up from various schools, and can
provide flexible childcare hours. Search the
National Childcare database for childminders in
the borough.
Crèches (registered with Ofsted)
A safe supervised play area for a group of children whose
parents are occupied in an activity eg at a sports club or on a
training course. Search the
National Childcare database for crèches in the
borough.
Day nurseries
Day nurseries are for children under five years
old, where they can play, learn and have fun in-groups while
their parents work or study. Search the
National Childcare database for day
nurseries in the borough.
Holiday playschemes
Cater for children of school age and operate during some or
all of the school holidays. They offer a wide range of play
activities. Search the
National Childcare database for
playschemes in the borough.
Nannies
Provide childcare in the parents' home and can look after
children of any age. There are no legal requirements on a person
applying to work as a nanny. It is up to parents to make sure that
the nanny will look after their children well. For more information
on nanny agencies in the area call the
Family Information Service.
Nursery schools
Provide early education and childcare. They offer full and
half days and are staffed by teachers and assistants. They are
generally for three and four year olds. Search the
National Childcare database for nursery schools
in the borough.
Overview
Checklist
Parent and toddler groups
These groups provide an opportunity for young children
(usually under five) to meet and play, and for parents to get to
know other families. Normally, toys are provided and tea/coffee can
be purchased. Some groups have a speaker from time to time to
discuss specific topics. Search the
National Childcare
database for parent and toddler groups in the
borough.
Play centres
Play centres are activity-based centres
that have outside play areas. They operate on a drop-in basis and
are free of charge. Some play centres also run childcare
facilities.
Pre-schools (formerly known as playgroups)
Part-time care for children between two and a half and five
years old. Normally operate in the mornings for two and a half hour
sessions, some offer an extended stay. Search the
National Childcare database under
playgroup section for pre-schools in the borough.
Toy libraries
Lend out toys - sometimes for a small charge. There are toy
libraries in Ealing with toys adapted for children with special
needs. Contact the
Family Information Service for details.