Those of you that only need childcare in the school hols, what do you do ??

[nutcracker]

I am still looking for a job and trying to find something that is school hours so 10-2 or 11-3, something like that, but I would still need childcare in the school holidays..

I would use my hols then, but obviously there would still be a large chunk of holidays where i'd need childcare.

What do you do ?? I have 3 kids aged 9, 7 and 4 (4 yr old starts school sept) and am not sure what would be best.

Also how do you work out claiming tax credits towards childcare if it's only in the hols ??

As a childminder, I have children who come during school holidays only (and inset days ... and days when schools shut because of snow!!) I only charge for the hours/days that the children come, which is not necessarily how other minders operate.

Some of the parents also make occasional use of the day camp at the local sports centre - it's cheaper than me, but is very energetic and full-on all day apparently, which is a bit exhausting for some of the younger ones. According to the children, I also do far more interesting activities and days-out!!

My only knowledge of tax credits was from a couple of years ago - one of my parents claimed for holiday-care only, and the money was given to her on a weekly basis throughout the year. I have no idea if it's still done this way.