Early childhood service or childcare service is a broad term which refers to any childcare service which your child may attend including – crèche, nursery, day care, preschool, playgroup, montessori etc.
Children usually attend services on one of the following basis:
Full day – 5+ hours per day
Part time – 3.5 to 5 hours per day
Sessional – Upto 3.5 hours per day
Most Full day care services will cater for children in each of these categories, however many preschool services only operate for sessional ECCE.
School Age Childcare – Afterschool Childcare, which may also incorporate a breakfast club, school drop and/or collection services, and full day childcare outside of the school term. This can operate as a standalone service, or as part of an existing creche/preschool facility.
Childminder – A Childminder cares for a small group of children of mixed ages in the childminder’s own home. Childminders offer a flexible service, tailored to each child, thereby helping parents and guardians to balance their work and family commitments. A Childminder negotiates and agrees her/his terms with parents. You can find support in choosing a childminder Here