Start nursery January or Sept?

[QueenAravisOfArchenland]

DC has just turned three and we currently use a nanny for childcare.

We are in the fortunate position of being within the catchment for two schools we really like. One does nursery entrance in September only, one does January as well. Any thoughts on the pros and cons of starting nursery earlier or later? The practical/financial advantages of accessing the free hours don't really matter to us - we will still be paying our nanny for other reasons/DC and since we share her, adding another pickup to her day will if anything add complications to our lives. It comes down to whether it benefits DC. I'm happy that being in a home based environment with 1-2 others has been the right thing for them until now, but unsure what to do. Of course if we only get offered a place by the one with September entrance that will simplify things...

Any thoughts?

I really don’t think it matters. More a matter of do you want your DC to start sooner or later and which nursery feels right to you (that really is the most important thing to consider). I tend to think that more rather than less time in nursery before school is better, but that’s only because that’s been my experience (mine started part time at 9 months and it was wonderful for her). But it really comes down to the setting and I’d choose the one that’s right for you regardless of start date.