Nursery, Nanny, Preschool or Childminder: Which Is Right for Your Child?
There are four main types of childcare for under-fives in England, and each suits different children and families. This guide compares them honestly. (Caring Hands is a nursery in Fulham; we don’t provide nanny or babysitting services. We’ve written this to help you choose, whichever you pick.)
At a glance
|
Nursery |
Preschool |
Childminder |
Nanny |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Where |
A dedicated setting |
A setting, often a hall or school |
The childminder’s home |
Your home |
|
Group size |
Larger groups, split by age |
Groups of 3- to 5-year-olds, sometimes 2s |
Small, mixed ages |
Your children only |
|
Hours |
Often 8am–6pm, most of the year |
Often school hours, term time |
Flexible, by agreement |
Flexible, by agreement |
|
Regulation |
Ofsted-registered, follows the EYFS |
Ofsted-registered, follows the EYFS |
Ofsted or agency registered, follows the EYFS |
No compulsory registration; can join Ofsted’s voluntary register |
|
Funded hours |
Usually yes |
Usually yes |
Often yes |
Not usually |
Nursery
A nursery is a registered setting with a team of practitioners, often with separate rooms for different ages. Children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage, with a key person each.
Pros: reliable cover even when a staff member is off; lots of children to play with; long hours suited to working parents; funded hours accepted.
Consider: larger groups can be busy for some children; fixed opening hours.
Why do parents choose a nursery?
A nursery may be suitable if you are looking for:
- Regular childcare during the week
- A structured daily routine
- Early years education
- Opportunities for children to socialise
- A dedicated learning environment
- Support from a team of early years practitioners
- Full-day or sessional childcare, depending on the provider
For parents who work or have regular commitments, a nursery can provide a consistent childcare routine while giving children opportunities to learn and develop with other children.
Preschool
A preschool usually focuses on 3- to 5-year-olds (sometimes from 2), preparing them for school. Many run sessions during school hours in term time; others, like the preschool room in a day nursery, run full days.
Pros: strong focus on school readiness; often lower cost for shorter sessions.
Consider: shorter hours may not cover a working day.
Is pre-school the same as nursery?
Not always. There can be considerable overlap between nursery and pre-school provision, and the terminology used by providers varies.
The important thing is to look at what the individual setting offers rather than relying solely on its name.
Ask about opening hours, sessions, learning activities, the EYFS, meals, outdoor play and how the setting supports your child’s development.
Childminder
A childminder cares for a small group of children, often of mixed ages, in their own home. In England, childminders must be registered with Ofsted or a childminder agency and follow the EYFS.
Pros: a home setting; small group; siblings together; often flexible.
Consider: if the childminder is ill or on holiday, you’ll need back-up.
Nanny
A nanny looks after your children in your home. Nannies don’t have to register, but they can join Ofsted’s voluntary Childcare Register, which you may need if you want to pay with Tax-Free Childcare.
Pros: one-to-one care; maximum flexibility; no drop-off.
Consider: usually the most expensive option; you become an employer (payroll, pension, holiday); less daily contact with other children.
Which option is best for a two-year-old?
There’s no single answer. Many two-year-olds love the company and variety of a nursery; some do better in a small, home-based setting first. Think about your child’s temperament, the hours you need, and your budget. Nursery vs daycare: what’s the difference? →
Six questions to help you decide
- What hours and weeks do you need covered?
- How does your child respond to groups and noise?
- Do you want a home-like setting or a dedicated early years environment?
- How much flexibility do you need around your working day?
- How important is daily play with other children?
- What’s your budget, after the funding and Tax-Free Childcare you’re entitled to?
Frequently asked questions
Is a nursery better than a childminder?
Neither is better overall. Both follow the EYFS; the difference is setting and group size.
What’s the difference between a nanny and a childminder?
A nanny works in your home for your family; a childminder looks after several families’ children in their own home.
Is preschool the same as nursery?
The terms overlap; see above.
Can I use funded hours with a nanny?
Funded hours are generally for registered early years providers such as nurseries, preschools and childminders, not nannies.
Looking for a small nursery in Fulham?
