Childcare in Scotland

If you're moving to Scotland with a young family, or plan to start one, it's important to know about the various childcare options open to you.

Childcare is regulated in Scotland by the Care Commission, meaning you can be sure that any options you choose have been approved by your local authority, including:

Childminders

Childminders care for children in their own home, creating a safe and stimulating environment. Taking children out of their home, to parks, playgrounds and drop-in groups might also be part of a normal day.

Nurseries

Run by a team of trained staff, nurseries are for children under five years old and place more emphasis on learning. Some offer French, music and yoga classes and there are many types of nursery to choose from. While you will need to pay for some nurseries, many are government funded.

Workplace Crèche

Some employers offer childcare near or within their offices, saving parents time and money each day. A number of colleges and universities also offer this service for their staff and students.

Playgroup

A playgroup is an organised group often set up by parents or voluntary groups, with parents helping out on a rota basis. Children who attend are usually between two-and-a-half and five. Sessions of play and education take place for children and take place for around two-and-a-half hours, two to five times a week.

Some playgroups work with their local authority to provide free, part time pre-school education places for three and four year olds. Gaelic playgroups, or Croileagans, are also available in some areas.

Out of school clubs

Out of school clubs care for school-age children after lessons have finished, usually staying open till around 6pm. Many are located in or near schools but some are based closer to parents' workplaces.

They must be registered with the Care Commission if they are caring for children for more than two hours a day and more than six days per year.

Childcare agencies

Childcare Agencies supply or introduce parents to a child carer who looks after children or young people up to the age of 16, wholly or mainly in a parent’s own home.

Friends and family

If none of these options are right for you, the last solution could be to speak to family and friends about looking after your child during the day.

Finding childcare

To find out how to access childcare in all areas of Scotland you can search the Scottish Childcare database. This will give you information on childcare providers in your area and offer information on local activities.

Understanding the care standards

No matter which aspect of childcare you're interested in it's worth taking time to refer to the care standards used by the providers. This will help you understand what they should be offering your child and allows you to settle on the provider who that best meets your own needs.

You can download the National care standards on the Scottish Government website.