Preschool

When choosing child care and pre-schooling there are many options, your decision is likely to be based on your working hours, the cost and whether you want your child to remain in your own home.

Free early learning for three and four year olds

All three and four year olds are entitled to 12.5 hours of free early education for 38 weeks of the year.

This applies until they reach compulsory school age (the term following their fifth birthday).

The early education can take place in nurseries, playgroups, pre-schools or at their childminders.

Education and schooling from birth to five years old

Some of the options available are listed below:

Day nurseries

Day nurseries operate much like schools and are based in their own premises or within a workplace such as an office block.

Day nurseries provide care and learning activities for children from birth to five years old. 

Costs differ between day nurseries but can be from £25 to £50 per day.

Childminders

Childminders work from their own home and can look after up to six children, although no more than three of these can be under five.

Cost for childminders can range from £2.50 to £10 per hour.

Nannies and home-based carers

A nanny will normally work from your own home and can look after children of any age. 

Nannies fees can be expensive and you will be their employer, meaning you need to pay their tax and national insurance.

Nursery schools and classes

Nursery schools provide early learning and childcare, usually for children between three and five years old.

They are often linked to a primary school.

Nursery school fees are approximately £600 per month in Scotland but this varies greatly.

Pre-schools and playgroups

Pre-schools and playgroups provide part-time play and early learning for under fives.

Three and four year olds can get their 12.5 hours of weekly free early learning at these providers. 

Pre-schools and playgroups cost approximately £5-£10 per hour

Visit Scottish Childcare to find a childcare service in Scotland

Information on childcare options from Directgov