How far ahead do I start looking into childcare options?

[Hermya321]

I'm just having a read through of the various bits and bobs on the thread and I was just wondering how far in advanced did people start looking at their childcare options and booking places with childminders and nurseries?

Also can anyone tell me of their experiences using Au pairs? I work shifts (DH works 9 - 5 so it wouldn't be all kinds of weird and wonderful hours) so it could be a viable option for me and my family if needs be.

Thanks

I'd say planning 4 to 6 months ahead and you should be ok, though some nurseries and childminders do have long waiting lists.

How old are your children? Where are you located?

I'm in Cumbria and my child is still in the womb. To be honest I thought I would work it out once baby was here but I noticed that a few people have mentioned organizing stuff whilst still pregnant. So I thought I would ask.

Hi Hermya! I was thinking about this too! we have a CM who lives two doors up so we re quite relieved, the nurseries we looked into varied some had waiting lists others were a little more flexable. I think it depends on the age of the child, the younger they are the harder it is as there is only so many allowed to a member of stff etc... but I'd say just doing a bit of research is enough for now

Agree with RooBear, do research now but wait until after baby is born before deciding anything for definite.

However given the age of the child concerned, Au-Pair option can be ruled out as an au-pair is more suited to caring for older children, not babies.

The two (outstanding) children's centres near me have 12 month waiting lists for the baby room, so I'd definitely call around your local nurseries now and see what their waiting lists are like.