What do I do if I can't get baby into a nursery??

[bigpreggybelly]

35 weeks and trying to get on local nursery waiting lists, but they say they are all booked up for the whole of 2010!!

What can I do?? I really need to be able to go back to work next September at the very latest, but can't until I've got a nursery place.

Are they refusing to add you to the list or just saying they're full?

If the latter, don't panic. Firstly people will drop out, leave, not go back to work. Secondly, the same people will likely be on more than one list and are obviously only going to take up one place.

Other suggestions - are these generally LEA nurseries? If so, have you tried private? They are usually more expensive but more flexible and less booked up, and might tide you over.

Also have you looked at childminders? They won't know their vacancies until a few months before you want to start, so you don't have to think about visiting until (say) June/Julyish for a Sept start. They are also better (IMO) for very small babies anyway.

Finally, if you try local baby groups you might find someone going back around the same time who wants to do a nannyshare, which can work out well depending on your circs.

Good luck!

In my experience lots of people sign their baby up to several nurseries in order to increase then likelihood of getting a place. The waiting lists 'free up' a bit as the your start date comes nearer.

If worst came to the worst you could (a) use a child minder (b) nanny/nanny share (c) a combination of nursery (when available) and (a) or (b). It will sort itself out nearer the time.

Good luck

Thanks so far. I don't know if they are LEA or private - just lcoal to where we live. One is certainly private I think. I have now put us down for two that are nearby with good reputations and OFSTED reports. They will put us on the list but say it could be past 2010, so I'm not holding my hopes up, and they don't let you know until 2 months before that a place is available.

Its ridiculous - how are women supposed to go back to work when they can't find a nursery place?? It makes me quite angry really, the local council is approving so much building of new houses round here, but doesn't make any provision for the extra people that will be living here!!