BBC News Pre School Advice

What are preschools and playgroups?

They're run on a not-for-profit basis (so they're not state or private), most often by parent management committees. Normally, they charge fees, although these are kept to a minimum and your child may be entitled to a free part-time place.

An increasing number offer extended or full daycare, but the majority run shorter sessions, ranging from two-and-a-half to four hours.

Preschools are registered by the Government regulatory bodies and are inspected every year. Half the staff must be trained and some may be qualified teachers. They'll offer lots of opportunities for children to learn through play, and most offer a Government-approved early years curriculum.

They also offer the opportunity for you to become involved either as a helper or as a member of the management committee.

Ages covered

Mainly children between two and four years, although a growing number cater for younger children.

The minimum child/staff ratios are as follows:

• children under two: 3:1
• two-year-olds: 4:1
• children aged three to seven: 8:1

In practice, though, the ratios are often much higher as many parents help out, too.

Pros

• A preschool will be registered and inspected regularly
• It will be run by trained staff and may have a qualified teacher
• It will be community-based
• You don't have to leave your child if you don't want to
• Your child will be among children his own age
• He'll have access to play and learning opportunities, and usually to a Government-approved early years curriculum
• It may offer full-time care
• You should be able to become involved yourself

Cons

• You may need additional childcare as most preschools operate three-hour sessions, with normal school holidays of around 13 weeks a year
• The premises may be used for other purposes, eg a church hall
• The staff won't be able to look after your child if he's ill
• There are some fees involved, although your child may be entitled to a free part-time place

Typical costs

An average of £3.50 for a three-hour session. This varies widely depending on where you live.

How to find a playgroup

ChildcareLink
A Government service that provides information and advice on childcare.
Freephone: 0800 096 0296
Website: www.childcarelink.gov.uk
This doesn't include Northern Ireland - try your local health and social services trusts instead.

The Pre-school Learning Alliance
Tel: 020 7833 0991
Website: www.pre-school.org.uk

Wales Pre-school Playgroups Association
Tel: 01686 624573
Website: www.walesppa.org

Scottish Pre-school Play Association
Tel: 0141 221 4148
Website: www.sppa.org.uk

Early Years
Tel: 028 9066 2825
Website: www.early-years.org/

Your local authority - look in your local phone book for details.

Your health visitor or doctor - talk to your health visitor or the nurse at your GP surgery.

Other parents - nothing beats a personal recommendation; ask other parents if they know of a good local preschool.