Childcare and early provision
Parents with young children may be able to access a childcare setting that will help children with their early education. It is also a good way for children to make friends and develop their skills.
For parents who have a 2 year old child
Some 2 year olds are entitled to up to 15 hours of funded childcare per week at a childcare setting. This begins at the start of the school term after the child's second birthday, if you are eligible. In Staffordshire, this is called Think2. Find out more at the Staffordshire website:
Funded education for 2 year olds - Staffordshire County Council
For parents who have a 3 or 4 year old child
All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to up to 15 hours of funded childcare a week, from the term that starts after their third birthday. You do not apply but will need to speak to your childcare setting. They may ask you for proof of identity for the child. This could be the child's passport or birth certificate or another type of ID.
Find out more at the Staffordshire website:
Funded education for 3 and 4 year olds - Staffordshire County Council
30 funded hours for 3 and 4 year olds
Parents who are working could receive an additional 15 hours to make up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week. Each parent (or lone parent) must work for at least 16 hours a week at the national minimum wage or national living wage level.
Find out more information about 30 hour childcare.
Help with childcare costs
Significant changes are coming to 15 and 30 hours childcare support in England. You can sign up here for more details about the upcoming expansion from April 2024, as well as how and when to register for support with childcare costs.
Child Benefit: families could receive extra money to help with the cost of raising children. Further information can be found on the government website Child Benefit: How it Works
Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Staffordshire's SEND Family Partnership provide Information, Advice and Support to parents and carers of Children and Young People with SEND (aged 0-25 years). Find out more about special educational needs and disabilities.
For further information on support, resources and activities, check our ‘Local Offer’ pages on Staffordshire Connects.
Choosing Childcare
See our dedicated webpage on choosing childcare which provides information on:
Do you need help finding childcare?
Our Early Education and Childcare Team can help you. Contact us by telephone: 01785 278201 or e-mail: eeac@staffordshire.gov.uk