It's a good idea to start looking for a daycare nursery as soon as you are on maternity leave.

In most areas the best will have long waiting lists and it's first come first served.

Kindergartens attached to independent schools tend to be hot property so don't be shy about making enquiries, even if your child is still a babe in arms.

State nursery schools and nursery classes tend to be for older toddlers and need your application between February and April of the year when they would start.

Check with your local council for the exact date and admission criteria.

Some enlightened employers offer subsidised daycare on site or in private nurseries nearby.

These tend to be few and far between but you could still consider finding a nursery near your workplace.

Daycare nurseries tend to have a longer day, typically 8am to 6pm or 7pm. They are nearly always registered with OFSTED and the LEA so you can claim some of the cost under Working Tax Credit and the Nursery Education Grant.

Children who attend nursery tend to settle into school easily.

One of the cons is you will need back up care when your child is unwell or if you're late to collect.

USEFUL CONTACTS

www.childcarelink.gov.uk 0800 096 0296 Find your local Children's Information Service www.nc.uk.net The national curriculum online. www.ofsted.gov.uk Read OFSTED reports on all nurseries and schools www.daycaretrust.org.uk The Daycare Trust. A useful booklet available on request. www.ndna.org.uk 0870 774 4244 National Day Nurseries Association. www.pre-school.org.uk 020 7833 0991 The authority on playgroups and pre-schools. www.parentsatwork.org.uk 020 7628 3578 Leaflets about childcare choices. www.upmystreet.com Nurseries & playgroups by proximity to your home. www.isis.org.uk Independent Schools Council Information Service www.montessori.ac.uk The Montessori method. www.steinerwaldorf.org.uk The Steiner Waldorf Schools www.hse.org.uk Human Scale Education promotes small schools and small classes