Booking nursery place before baby even born?

[allduffedup]

I am 35 weeks pregnant, and was advised by colleagues at work to look at nurseries now as the better ones get booked up. I am planning on taking 12 months maternity leave.

We've looked at 3 nurseries. The one I like most has a 10-12 month waiting list, so we would have to pay a deposit now in order to be sure of a place.

However, I just don't feel sure because of the cost (£250/month more than the other possible nursery for 3 days a week). Ideally I'd also like to look at childminders too, but it seems way too early for both me and them. I'm just not sure what to do - should i pay a £200 deposit now to secure the place, and risk losing it if I change my mind?

I should add that at 2 or 3 yeas old, we would hopefully try to get a spot at the local Children's Centre nursery/preschool.

Is the other nursery really worth £3000 a year more??!!! Are the others ok??

Yeah we've looked around both. The expensive one is really nice, smaller (~50 kids max), good outdoor space, really nice baby room and soft play room. Ofsted report was good, mostly 1s and 2s. I know a couple of parents who have kids there and are really happy with it.

The cheaper one is registered for ~100 kids (although not been open long so only running at about 60 right now). Less homely inside. DH thought they were a bit less "professional". Otherwise I thought it was fine, and the kids seemed pretty calm and happy. Ofsted report good, all 2s, but it was written just 6 months after they opened. Don't know anyone who has kids here.

In terms of the prices, the expensive one is about in line with average prices in the area, possibly a bit above average. The cheaper one is way below, and I'm not sure why, unless they are trying to lure people in as they are quite new.

A childminder would be a similar price to the cheaper nursery.

If it is miles cheaper atm, prices might increase significantly next year. Equally, the expensive nursery will almost certainly increase by a few pounds a day as well.

I am not sure I would put down the £200 without considering all the options (cms etc) as long as I was happy enough with the alternative.

Fwiw, DD is not at our absolute favourite nursery. She is at one that is £10 a day cheaper and more convenient for work. Decided that the favourite one simply wasn't that much better.

I would hold off and look for a childminder nearer the time for a baby.