What are my steps to putting my daughter into nursery

[StaceyKeller]

Hey. If this sounds stupid. Just mind me.
But I've got a daughter turning 2 in Jan.

I'm mother trying to put her daughter into nursery.
I've booked appointments for viewings at 4 different nurseries in my area.
They say bring iID and a deposit:
But I'm under benefits. And should be getting 15hrs free right.
I've applied online for 2yr old funding.
But have yet to wait for an email
What are the necessary steps I need to do from here on.
Or will the nurseries have that information and guidance.
Don't want to go tomorrow to view the nurseries and realise I was supposed to have done something or applied for something.
Have no help from family or friends.
Lone parenting issues.
But help please.

Is the fifteen free hours for 52 weeks of the year or is it like the three year old free hours when it is only in term time which works out at 38 weeks and the parent pays the remainder? As that could cost you.
Ask what sessions they have available for free hours when you look around. Ours did the free hours at odd times
Ask if food, nappies etc are included.
Basically find out what the hidden costs of taking the 15 free hours may be.

She won't be eligible for funding until the term after her 2nd birthday, assuming you claim CTC, so you won't be able to get a funded place until then.

I've no idea how to get the hours though - I asked at nursery and they said I should have got something in the post when DS was eligible, but was new to tax credits and never got anything about it.

Ask how they work out funded hours. Some do 3 hours a day, some (like mine) let you use the funded hours to pay for 1 full day, year round.

I'd go and view, speak to them about it. Don't worry, they'll be able to answer questions

Yes she would be starting at Easter, it's the term after you turn 2 or 3.

Funding comes into play the term after the child turns 2. I run the office at a preschool. If it were me, I would expect you to let me know over phone or email that you are looking for a fully funded place, then I'd invite you in to complete the form. The online application just tells you whether you're eligible or not, it doesn't guarantee the funding. A longer form needs completing with your hv, children's centre or your chosen nursery.

At least in my LA