funding Archives | Little Cedars Day Nursery

Tag Archive for: funding

Child Behaviour, Early Years, Infants, Learning & Development, Parenting, Tantrums, Toddlers, Under-5s

How to Handle Toddler Tantrums — A Parent’s Guide

Tantrums are a common part of life with toddlers and under-fives, but when they happen, they can be very challenging! Whether it’s a meltdown at dinner time or a dramatic on-the-floor outburst in the middle of the supermarket aisle, they can test even the most patient of parents and carers. However, it’s important to understand that tantrums aren’t a sign that something is wrong — they’re actually a normal, healthy stage of child development.

Today’s guide aims to offer practical, reassuring advice on how to understand and respond to tantrums, without resorting to shouting or feeling like you’re failing as a parent.

Why Toddlers Have Tantrums

In their early years, children are still learning how to manage big emotions. There’s a mismatch, though; their brains are developing rapidly, but they haven’t yet mastered language, impulse control, or emotional regulation. So, when they’re tired, hungry, overstimulated, or frustrated, it can all become too much for them. That’s when the crying, kicking, shouting, or collapsing to the floor can occur and, considering they’re such small people, it can be quite something!

Tantrums aren’t usually “naughty” behaviour. They’re expressions of overwhelming emotion. A toddler might not be able to say “I’m frustrated because I wanted the red toy, not the blue one,” but they can certainly show it.

What to Do in the Moment

Stay Calm & Composed

When a tantrum starts, staying calm yourself is key. Your child will take emotional cues from you, their trusted adult. If you can remain steady, even if you’re feeling flustered inside, you send the message that you’re in control—and that they’re safe.

Acknowledge Your Child’s Feelings

Try getting down to your child’s level and speaking softly. In the scenario quoted above in green, you could say, “I can see you’re really upset,” or “You’re feeling angry because you wanted something else.” Validating and labelling their emotions lets them know you understand, even if they still can’t get what they want. It also helps them understand and name what they’re feeling.

Make Allowances When They’re Overwhelmed

Avoid reasoning or explaining too much during a tantrum. When a child is overwhelmed, they’re unlikely to take much in. It’s often best to wait it out and stay close so they know they’re not alone. For some children, a gentle touch or hug might be helpful. Others may need a bit of space before they’re ready for comfort.

Focus on Your Child — Not Onlookers

If you’re in public and feel pressure from onlookers, try to block it out. What matters most is your child’s emotional development — not what strangers might think.

After the Storm

Once the tantrum has passed, your child might need a cuddle, a drink, or just a few quiet moments. Talk gently with them about what happened. This isn’t a time for lectures, but a moment to reconnect and help them feel secure again.

Perhaps say something like, “That was upsetting for you. Next time, let’s try using words to tell me how you feel.” Over time, this builds emotional awareness, communication skills, and trust.

Preventing Tantrums (When You Can)

While it’s impossible to prevent every tantrum, there are ways to reduce how often they happen.

Offering limited choices — like “Would you like to wear the red jumper or the blue one?” — can also give them a sense of control without overwhelming them.
Being aware of your child’s triggers, such as tiredness or hunger — and planning accordingly — can make outings smoother and transitions easier.
Routine helps young children feel secure, so sticking to regular mealtimes and bedtimes can also make a big difference.

The Bigger Picture

It’s easy to feel judged, tired, or helpless when dealing with tantrums, especially during a long day or out in public. But every time you respond with calm, connection, and consistency, you’re helping your child build the tools they’ll need to manage emotions as they grow. Tantrums may not disappear overnight, but with understanding, patience, and time, they’ll become less frequent — and far more manageable.

Little Cedars Day Nursery in Streatham

We hope today’s post was useful to parents and carers of children under five. Little Cedars is a childcare nursery in Streatham, near Streatham Hill and Streatham Common and close to Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury, and Colliers Wood. We provide little ones with a fabulous start to their early years learning and development, and a warm, caring, nurturing environment that brings out the best in them. We’re recognised by Ofsted as a good provider and support free childcare hours for eligible children aged from 9 months to 4 years, including stretched provision over 51 weeks of the year — great for working parents.

If you would like to apply for a nursery place for your child at Little Cedars Day Nursery in Streatham, please click the ‘Apply for a Place’ button below to get started. Alternatively, select one of the other options to get in touch or arrange a guided tour:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

31 August 2025/by Mark

Activity Ideas for Children, Children, Health & Wellbeing, Learning through play, Parenting

The Benefits of a Digital Detox & Why Families Should Try It

In today’s world, electronic screens are everywhere — from TVs and smartphones to tablets and games consoles. Even our youngest children are growing up in increasingly digital environments. While technology brings many conveniences, intentionally unplugging can offer profound benefits for little ones and their families. Whether it’s for a day, a weekend, a holiday, or even longer, the value gained from a ‘digital detox’ may surprise even the most dubious amongst us. Today’s post investigates.

What Science Tells Us

Research consistently shows the positive effects of stepping away from our screens. Studies report that a digital detox can lead to decreased stress and anxiety, improved mood and well-being, and even better physical health through healthier, less sedentary, lifestyles. Pausing the use of electronic screens can even help reset our perception of time, making days feel longer, fuller, and more engaged.

For children, excessive screen use, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep. This is caused by electronic screens interfering with natural melatonin production, leading to delayed sleep onset and poor quality rest. It can also slow language development and impair attention, particularly for children under five, whose brains are undergoing rapid early development. In one study, toddlers watching three hours of TV a day were three times more likely to experience language delays and weaker school readiness skills.

The results from combined studies indicate that children who reduce screen time show fewer emotional difficulties, improved social behaviour, and greater prosocial tendencies including kindness and cooperation. In another real-world experiment, teens who took a 48-hour smartphone break noticed better sleep, more outdoor activity and stronger family interactions.

Learn more about the science of ‘green time vs. screen time’ here.

Why It Matters for Families

When families go screen-free, the benefits extend well beyond the individual. Removing screens often rekindles face-to-face interactions and facilitates more laughter and unfiltered conversations within the family. Parents who’ve tried it report a renewed sense of connection and deeper engagement with their children. Even short periods of unplugging can turn into lasting changes—more shared stories, more creative play, and more real presence.

Outdoor time plays a huge role too. Whether it’s a neighbourhood walk, a garden adventure, or imaginative forest-based play, nature helps cultivate curiosity, resilience and emotional regulation. Studies suggest that just 20 minutes spent in nature can make children significantly happier and help them learn to cooperate and handle challenges — all skills rarely honed by flicking through a screen. Similarly, nature-rich breaks support mental health and reduce the pull of addictive screen use. Studies found that even a view of a natural green space can enhance academic focus and grades — incredible! Learn more about how spending time closer to nature benefits children here.

Children’s emotional intelligence also deepens with the absence of screens as it encourages them to observe and interpret others’ feelings. For example, in a five-day unplugged camp, participants improved significantly in their ability to recognise emotional expressions, unlike peers who continued using devices.

Benefits Families Are Likely to Notice

After just one screen-free day, many families may notice:

Better sleep for everyone with children tending to drop off more easily and adults feeling more rested.
Evenings that are likely to feel longer and more relaxed.
Greater spontaneity and creativity as children talk, play, read, draw, and excitedly ask “What shall we do next?”
Enhanced awareness of each other’s company, with siblings rediscovering play together and children becoming more attentive to parents.
A pleasant atmosphere overall and a likely boost to everyone’s mood.

Possible Challenges & Their Solutions

Of course, removing electronic screens may not always be easy, especially at first. Families trying a digital detox may face some potential challenges. If so, there are gentle ways to manage them.

If children are resistant to the idea or complain that it’s going to be boring without electronic screens, try re-framing the break as an adventure rather than a restriction. Invite children to suggest activities — let them decide during the detox. Try presenting it as a shared family challenge rather than a rule.

Adults may worry about missing their devices too. However, parents modelling the detox by putting their own phones away will help children accept it too.

There is also the potential fear of missing out (FOMO) without access to electronic devices and social connections — particularly for older children. However, explaining that it’s just for a short time will help achieve acceptance of the idea. Acknowledge the temporary interference and encourage children to choose family connection and creativity first — it will help families stay on track.

There is the potential of failure if preparations have not been made before starting. So, in readiness, it’s advisable to prepare a list of screen-free ideas so the family can hit the ground running when they begin their digital detox (see suggestion #3 below).

How to Introduce a Detox Gently & Keep It Fun

Here are some tips to help ease families into a digital detox and set them up for success:

Begin by designating screen-free boundaries, such as bedrooms or mealtimes, and/or set a daily screen-free hour in the evening.
Get children to buy into the idea by inviting them to help set the rules. Ask them “When are screens off?” and “What happens then?” They can be nudged in the right direction through discussion and helpful suggestions if they’re unsure.
Plan those entertaining and engrossing alternatives together. Screen-free ideas could include reading together, making simple crafts, telling stories, going outdoors, cooking, playing music, dancing and fitness sessions, baking together, garden safaris, yoga sessions, board games — and so on.
Celebrate small wins! For example, point out how much deeper and more restful sleep is, or how much more chatter there is at the breakfast table.
Once screen-free moments become familiar, try graduating your family to a screen-free weekend or even a full holiday. Many families describe these as revelatory with any initial frustrations soon giving way to something deeper and more rewarding.

Final Thoughts

The evidence clearly shows: families who have periods free of electronic screens will benefit. A digital detox enriches and elongates days. It enhances sleep quality for children and adults by facilitating their natural rhythms. Days feel more spacious and calm without digital distractions and imaginative play soon steps in and thrives. In the absence of screens, children are also likely to get outdoors more often — and benefit from everything nature and outdoor play have to offer. Mental health and even academic grades are also likely to improve when this happens.

A digital detox isn’t about rejecting technology, though, as it has its place; it’s more about creating balance and discovering what’s been hidden. For example, deeper conversations, creative play, richer bonds, and nourishing rest. Whether it’s a screen-free Sunday, a tech-free teatime, or a weekend getaway without devices, these breaks can evolve into high-quality, cherished family time. Although at its heart a digital detox is the most simple of concepts, it’s likely to enhance family life in profound ways, whether for an afternoon or longer term.

With all that in mind, why not invite your child(ren) to get started by trying a screen-free afternoon this weekend? It could be the first step towards more fun, enhanced well-being, greater fulfilment and more genuine togetherness.

A Nursery Place for Your Child in Streatham

Today’s post was brought to you by Little Cedars Nursery, a highly-popular childcare provider in Streatham, close to Streatham Hill and Streatham Common. Catering for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers under five, it offers high-quality weekday childcare virtually all year round and has a great Ofsted rating. We also support funded childcare places for eligible children as young as just 9 months of age. Families living in Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood may also find Little Cedars Nursery convenient.

Start your exploration of a Little Cedars nursery place for your baby, toddler, or preschooler today. Please choose a button to get started:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

19 August 2025/by Mark

Childcare, Childcare Funding, Free Childcare, Little Cedars Day Nursery, Nursery, Streatham

51 Week ‘Stretched’ Childcare Provision for 2025-26 Funded Places

At Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham, government-funded childcare hours for eligible children will be ‘stretched’ over 51 weeks of the year, starting from the 1st of September 2025. It means that, if your child is eligible for government-funded childcare hours at Little Cedars Nursery, they will be able to use them over virtually every week of the academic year starting in September 2025. In practice, that’s childcare provision every week, apart from the Christmas/New Year week, bank holidays, and three inset days. That aligns funded childcare provision with the standard working weeks that Little Cedars Nursery operates. It will provide more consistent childcare to families over virtually the entire year. This will alleviate the stresses associated with accessing funded childcare, especially during school holidays, which are not usually funded in the more standard 38-week model. Read on to learn more.

Our 51-Week Working Calendar

For 2025-26 Childcare Provision at Little Cedars Nursery

The coloured areas of the calendar below indicate days when Little Cedars Day Nursery will be open during the academic year 2025-26, with the new 51-week ‘stretched’ provision aligning with those weeks. Take a look:

Background to ‘Stretched’ Funded Childcare Provision

When people refer to a “30 Hours” childcare funding scheme, it’s known as such because it’s based on 30 weekly childcare hours taken over just 38 weeks of the year (total: 1140 annual hours). It’s similar for ’15-hours’ childcare funding schemes, which are usually taken as 15 hours per week over 38 weeks of the year (total: 570 annual hours). As we all know, however, there are 52 weeks in every year. That leaves a substantial 14 weeks of the year where families would not usually be able to access funded childcare hours. That could cause many issues and potential expense as parents try to find alternative childcare provision, or have to reduce working hours. Both would effectively cost households money. With this in mind, Little Cedars Nursery will implement a new 51-week ‘stretched’ provision for the academic year 2025-26. As the name suggests, this stretches the funded hours over more weeks of the year. This is achieved by reducing the number of funded hours used each week.

How Many Funded Hours Eligible Children Can Get Each Week

With Our ‘51 Week’ Stretched Provision

By stretching the free hours over more weeks of the year, it results in a different number of funded hours in any given week:

Children on a ‘15-hour’ scheme (570 funded hours per annum) will instead take just over 11 hours per week, over the 51 weeks of the year.
Children on a ‘30-hour’ scheme (1140 funded hours per annum) will instead take approximately 22 funded hours per week, over the 51 weeks of the year.

Please contact the nursery for more details.

Nursery Places at Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham

If you would like to explore the possibility of sending your baby, toddler or preschooler to Little Cedars Day Nursery in Streatham, please get in touch. We provide a high-quality weekday childcare service to families in Streatham as well as Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood. The nursery is rated as a Good Provider by Ofsted and supports several Government-led childcare funding schemes for eligible families. Indeed, from September 2025, children as young as 9 months of age will be able to access the 30-Week scheme for eligible working families. But don’t miss the application deadline if you’re thinking of applying for the scheme. Choose an option to get in touch today:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

20 July 2025/by Mark

Activity Ideas for Children, Early Years Education, Indoor Activities for Kids, Learning through play, Mathematics, Parenting, Preschoolers, Under-5s

Number & Counting Games for Preschoolers

Concepts involving numbers and counting can sometimes be tricky for some preschoolers to grasp. Making sense of such concepts is important, though, because many aspects of children’s day-to-day lives will require an increasing understanding of numbers as time passes. Whether it’s knowing if a quantity of something is more or less than something else, how much of an ingredient is required in a mixture, or what change to expect from a purchase, children will need to grasp number-based concepts — and understand their real-world applications. What’s more, they’ll need to do this sooner rather than later if they’re to thrive, not least when they leave early years settings to begin school.

Early parental help can significantly boost children’s understanding of numbers, counting, and maths terminology. One of the key ways to help preschoolers is through number and counting games. What’s more, by using games and playful challenges, learning number and counting concepts will be fun! That fun element will be a key to both success and enjoyment. Indeed, learning through play is, as we know, the very best way for young children to learn. With that said, let’s take a look at some examples of games and fun challenges that under-fives can take part in. With supervision and guidance from adults, these are a great way to boost comprehension of number-based concepts in little ones — and support the EYFS curriculum.

**First Create Some Number Cards**

Making ‘number cards’ with your child will be a fun and useful first step. These could be as simple as small pieces of paper or card, each having a single large number written clearly on them. Alternatively, your child could take the opportunity to get more creative. For example, you and your child could make the numbers bright and colourful, have patterned in-fills, or even be made to look like animals or number ‘characters’ that have eyes. For the very young, start with numbers up to 5, or go to 10 or even 20 for older and more advanced children. Size-wise, perhaps aim for cards sized at about A6 (a quarter of an A4 sheet) or even A7 (A4 divided into 8).

Number Order Games

Once you have a set of numbered cards, first ensure your child recognises the numbers and can say their names. Then, get your child to jumble them up. They should then place each card on the table or other flat surface and try to move them back into the correct numerical order. The idea is to end up with the lowest number on the left, going in order until they have correctly placed the highest number on the right. Ask them to count them out loud, from left to right, once complete. Praising and congratulating them when they do well will encourage them but, of course, help them if they struggle at first.

Once they’ve mastered the first game, make it more challenging by asking them to reverse the numbers and, when complete, count the numbers backwards.

Getting More Advanced

When your child becomes more advanced, perhaps shake things up a bit by hiding a number and seeing if they can tell you which one is missing. Later still, you could even miss out all the odd numbers, so they have to play the game with only even numbers, then do it the other way around. Learning to count all the odd or even numbers will be another useful and practical skill as they get older.

**Number ‘Dot’ Cards**

Number 'dot' cards give children a practical example of the number's meaning and help them better understand quantities. A more advanced form of the number cards could depict the correct number of dots (or other drawn objects) instead of — or as well as — the actual written number. So, for example, the ‘3’ card could show a column or row of 3 round dots or squares or even something like 3 drawn strawberries — whatever your child likes! In a way, it’s a bit like traditional playing cards where each has both a number and the right amount of hearts, diamonds, clubs or spades on it, to match the number.

The benefit of this, more advanced type of card is that children will be able to see (and count), for example, two ‘dots’ on a ‘2’ card, four on a ‘4’ card, and so on. By using this approach, children will have a visual clue and practical example of the number’s meaning and, crucially, it will allow them to recognise and better understand quantities.

Introduce Simple Addition & Subtraction

When your child is more advanced using their number cards, a gradual introduction to simple addition and subtraction concepts will come easier — particularly if they use the cards with the numbers depicted with the dots/symbols. So, when you ask them what happens when they add a 2 and a 3 together, they will be able to count (or, with practice, recognise) the quantity of symbols on both cards. Before long, they’ll grasp the underlying concepts and be able to do it in reverse (subtraction). You could also consider adding mathematical ‘symbol’ cards into the pack, for example, ‘plus’ and ‘minus’ symbol cards.

TIP:

Ensure you give your child a round of applause when they get things right in any of these games — it will give them encouragement to keep going and also give them a sense of progress and achievement. Consider awarding them a prize or sticker to celebrate their achievements.

Number Matching Games

This next game will require a set of dominoes or, if you don’t have a set, they’re also easy enough to make in a similar way to the number cards. As you may know, each half of every domino has a number of dots, most commonly from 1 to 6. So, for example, there might be two dots on one end and five on the other, with the dot formations being rather like those you’d see on dice.

Whether using real dominoes or a homemade paper alternative, this game is traditionally played with 2 people. However, for the purpose of today’s game, it can be played just as well by a solo child, although under-fives will benefit most if they have some adult supervision and feedback. The idea of the game is to lay down one domino. Then, the next domino will need to be laid alongside one end of it so that the touching numbers match. So, for example, if the first domino has a 2 at one end and a 5 at the other, the second domino will need to have at least one number that matches and that should be placed so the two matching numbers touch. This is repeated so more and more dominoes are added, each time with a matching number connecting to an existing domino. Although traditionally there is a winner and a loser in dominoes, if playing solo, the idea here is simply for children to learn to easily recognise the number of dots. It’s a great way for children to be able to instinctively know whether they are looking at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 dots — recognising the quantity and associated number will become instinctive if they practise.

Quantity Estimating Games

Understanding whether a quantity of something is more or less than something else is an important concept for children to grasp. Similarly, being able to estimate a quantity is a useful and practical skill for little ones to master. Such concepts can easily be highlighted, and the skills mastered, using simple estimating games. Some examples follow.

With the help of your child, build two stacks of one kind of object (e.g. draughts counters, biscuits, drinks coasters, etc.) and ask your child to confirm which stack they think has more than the other — without actually counting. Take some away or add some and repeat the process. They’ll soon be able to confirm the answers more accurately and grasp concepts like more, less, taller, shorter, and so on. This is a simple but practical game that will exercise children’s estimating skills and improve maths vocabulary.

Once they’ve mastered simple stacks of identical components one directly on top of another, you could make the game more challenging. There are a few ways to approach this.

It can be achieved by making the stacks more complex, for example, in layers of different quantities — a pyramid format would be a good example.
Or, instead of using a stack of near-identical components, try using small piles of irregular items, e.g. vegetables or fruit. Due to the different sizes and shapes, these will be more of a challenge and will get children thinking and concentrating harder.

As before, perhaps take away or add more objects to one or more of the groups and ask them to estimate which has more and which has less. Also, ask them to estimate, using logic, how many components each group has. You could even take it a step further by adding piles of objects to scales. Ask your child which they think is going to be heaviest, which is lightest, and so on.

Such games and challenges are a great workout for children’s young brains and great ways to introduce new number- and quantity-based concepts to children’s worlds, all in a fun way. They will also help little ones introduce new maths terminology into their vocabulary.

The Shop Game

Playing shops is a great way to make counting, numbers, and even money fun! Pretending to be a shopkeeper or a shopper buying from one is a great next step for children. What’s more, they’ll naturally love playing shops having, no doubt, accompanied parents to real shops. This is where they can put all the things they’ve learned from the games above into practice. They can check they have the right quantities, weights or volumes or products, check they’re giving the shopkeeper the right amount of money, ensure that any change is correct — and so on! Playing shops is such a great way to master numbers, counting, estimating, weighing, addition, subtraction and more!

Numeracy Skills Boost Children’s Long-Term Outcomes!

We hope that today’s activity ideas, in the form of games, help your child to grasp maths terminology and number-based concepts like counting, subtracting, adding, comparing, and estimating. Learning through play is by far the best way for little ones to learn. And, by learning about the application of number concepts through games and activities, they will be able to experience real-life applications of them. It will naturally make more sense and make learning about numbers and counting child’s play!

What’s more, an early boost to numeracy skills has been proven to enhance outcomes for children even in the longer term. Studies show that the benefits of number mastery include a propensity to stay in education longer, better job prospects, and improved earning potential as adults. That’s the power of understanding numbers!

Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham

At Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham, we also take every opportunity to help children learn about numbers, how they work, their significance to everyday life, and the maths vocabulary that surrounds them. It’s all an important part of the EYFS curriculum and something they’ll benefit from profoundly as they grow older – crucially too in readiness for school. If you would like to explore the possibility of your child attending this wonderful nursery and preschool in London SW16, please get in touch or simply apply for a place (see the options below). Little Cedars Nursery is officially a Good Provider and supports eligible children through various government-funded childcare schemes, including those for eligible babies from just 9 months.

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

As well as being perfectly located for families looking for nurseries in Streatham, Streatham Common, Streatham Park and Streatham Hill, we may also suit those seeking high-quality childcare near Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood.

20 June 2025/by Mark

Babies, Childcare, Childcare Funding, Early Years, Early Years Education, Free Childcare, Nurseries, Nursery, Parenting, Preschoolers, Toddlers, Under-5s

Apply Now for the ‘30 Hours’ Childcare Scheme for Working Families – for Children 9 Months+

[May 2025]: Applications are now open for the final “30 hours” expansion of the Government’s free childcare scheme for working families. The new, expanded childcare hours are for eligible children, aged 9 months up to 3 years by 1st September 2025, attending nursery from that month. It doubles the previous number of hours available under the scheme, potentially saving eligible families as much as £7,500 per annum per child. The extended childcare hours will also allow parents — particularly mothers — improved potential to get back into work or take on more hours. Either would increase both household income and the greater economy. Most importantly, though, increasing access to high-quality early years childcare will give children the best start in life, enabling them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive once they leave early years settings to begin school.

Don’t delay — if your child is eligible, you can now apply for the September 2025 term but you only have until the 31st of August in which to do so. That deadline will be here before we know it, so act quickly if you want to benefit from the expanded childcare funding from September 2025.

The changes will make a “massive difference to children and working parents”— Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary.

Here’s a snapshot:

Who can apply? Eligible working families with a child aged 9 months up to 3 years by September 1st 2025.
How many funded hours will be available? 30 hours per week over 38 weeks per year term time (1140 childcare hours over the year).*
When can families start to apply? From 12th May 2025 for a September ’25 term start.
When is the application deadline? Apply no later than 31 August 2025 if you want your child to start nursery in the September 2025 term.
What About Children Aged 3 and 4? 3-and-4-year-olds of eligible working families have been able to access the 30 hours of free childcare per week (1140 hours per year) since it was phased in late last year (September 2024). Previously, only half those hours had been available under the scheme for this age group.
Does the funding cover everything? No. The government funding does not cover additional items like extra childcare hours over the allowance or nappies, meals, and the cost of trips. Your chosen provider will be able to provide more details specific to their particular setting. To clarify for government-funded places at Little Cedars Day Nursery, meals, other consumables, and extra hours will need to be paid for separately.
What if we’re not a working family? If you’re not a working family that’s eligible for the new 30 hours extension, it’s worth noting that all children who live in England already qualify for 15 hours per week (570 childcare hours per annum) under their ‘Universal Entitlement’. That is a separate scheme that’s explained here, does not require parents to be working, and is not means tested.

^{* Some settings may allow some flexibility, for example, by spreading out the same number of annual hours over more weeks of the year. For the academic year 2025-26, Little Cedars will accommodate families in this way via a 51-week provision starting in September 2025. Click here to learn more.}

This is a plan “to break the unfair link between background and opportunity across this country, which starts by ensuring our children start school ready to learn.” — Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary.

Eligibility

The key rules around eligibility for working families state that both you and your partner if you have one must:

Work at least 16 hours or more per week at the National Minimum Wage^∞ or more;
Earn an adjusted net income^∞ of less than £100k per annum;
Have a National Insurance number.

If the above factors do not apply to you, you may still be eligible for childcare funding if you are disabled, a carer, on maternity/paternity/adoption leave, or receive certain benefits or assistance from the government. Check your eligibility more comprehensively in Step 1 below. More details and an excellent overview are also provided in an official video provided by the Department of Education (viewing time: 2½ minutes).

To-Do List

First, check that your child is eligible via the Childcare Choices website.
If eligible, apply for the funded childcare on the Government website by 31 August 2025 if you want your child to start in the September 2025 term. If applying for a different term, you will need to apply during the term preceding it (terms begin on the 1st of January, April and September). Once approved, you will be issued with a code that your childcare provider will require in order to access the funding.
Contact your preferred childcare provider at any point to check if they have a place available for your child under the scheme. Be aware that some have waiting lists.
Log into your Gov.uk childcare account every 3 months to ensure your code is kept up to date. You need to reconfirm your details and check for continued eligibility in case your circumstances have changed.

You will not be able to receive the funded childcare without a valid code!

Funded Nursery Places at Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham

Little Cedars Day Nursery is a wonderful childcare setting in Streatham, close to Tooting Common, that offers a first-class service to local families and their children. The setting supports most government-funded childcare schemes and thereby provides affordable childcare for Streatham, Furzedown, Tooting and Balham families. Through the government funding schemes, free childcare is available to eligible children aged from 9 months to school age and this includes a number of places available under the extended ’30 hours’ scheme for working families. It’s the perfect way to give children the best start in life while also allowing parents, especially mothers, to rejoin the workplace after maternity leave, boost working hours if they want to, and elevate household income.

Begin your application to Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham, come for a visit with your child or send us your questions today. We can’t wait to meet you!

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham is rated as a Good Provider of childcare and early years education by Ofsted. It may also be a convenient choice for families living nearby in Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood.

20 May 2025/by Mark

Activity Ideas for Children, Reading, Storytelling, Under-5s, World Book Day

World Book Day Fun for Under-Fives

Children of the UK, it’s time to get ready for World Book Day! Arriving in early March, it is a wonderful annual event where children across the nation get to immerse themselves in books, storytelling, and other book-inspired activities. Such activities are incredibly important for children. Did you know, for example, that children who regularly read for pleasure are happier children who also go on to have greater success in their lives? This uplift is even more significant for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Such is the power of reading for little ones! With all this in mind, today’s article outlines more about World Book Day and why it’s so important. It also suggests some activities that children and families can take part in to celebrate this year’s event.

“World Book Day improves children’s life chances, particularly those growing up in disadvantage and inequality, by encouraging reading for pleasure.” — World Book Day^® Impact Report 2024

Why World Book Day is So Important to Children

World Book Day arrives each year on the first Thursday of March. So, for 2025 it’s celebrated on the 6th of March, then in 2026 it’s on the 5th, for 2027 it’s the 4th, and so on. Organised by the charity of the same name, the core mission of World Book Day is “to promote reading for pleasure, offering every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own.” The reason is simple: a life-long love of reading for pleasure results in improved life chances. It’s incredibly powerful for children of all ages, as indicated in the following findings from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development:

“Reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success – more than their family circumstances, their parents’ educational background or their income.”

The National Literacy Trust, BookTrust and others also came to similar conclusions:

“Evidence … shows that reading enjoyment and literacy levels are associated with educational attainment and employability skills as well as health, social, emotional and intellectual benefits.”

How to Encourage Children to Love Books

Children said that being able to choose what to read, when to read, and where to read were crucial factors to their enjoyment. The World Book Day^® charity published a 17-page impact report for the event that took place in 2024. One of the key findings was that something needed to be done to stop the significant drop in children reading for pleasure. Otherwise, children would be missing out on some profound benefits. The report concluded that there had been several reasons for the downward trend. For example, 20% of children said they felt judged for what books they read. Some said that reading felt more like a chore or ‘work’ because the books were foisted upon them by adults. Just over 8% of children simply didn’t have access to any books at home. Of those that did, over a third said they had no choice over what they read.

However, after asking the children what would make reading better, the conclusion was that being able to choose what to read, when to read, and where to read were crucial factors in their enjoyment. Being given the freedom to read in other ways also played a role; for example, some wanted access to audiobooks, graphic novels, and other non-standard book types. From this, a new approach was devised and World Book Day organisers have adopted it this year. It’s called ‘Read Your Way’ and is proving to have positive results.

Employ the ‘Read Your Way’ Approach to Reading

This new theme has six key components, each helping to increase children’s enjoyment and regular uptake of reading:

Read to/with children regularly;
Help children find time to read;
Ensure children have books at home as well as at school/nursery etc.
Make reading fun for children;
Ensure children get to choose which book(s) they read;
Ensure children have trusted help when choosing a new book.

Books for World Book Day

In the UK, children under 18 are eligible to receive a £1 book token through the event. This can be used to buy a special World Book Day title or go towards another book (more information is available here). World Book Day is therefore the perfect time to encourage children to read books – or, of course, to read in tandem with parents/carers if they’re not yet old enough to understand printed words. Greater success is likely, though, if the ‘Read Your Way’ approach, outlined above, has been employed. So, for example, by allowing a child to choose the book, when to read it, and where to read it. And they don’t have to stick only to World Book Day because every day is a great day for children to benefit from reading!

Activity Ideas for Under-Fives

While many schools and childcare settings arrange activities for children on World Book Day, families can also organise their own. Consider these fun and simple ideas to get you started:

Visit a Library or Bookshop

Many local libraries take part in World Book Day each year by organising storytelling sessions, book-themed activities, and fancy-dress fun for local families. So, perhaps check what’s on near you. A special trip to a local bookshop is also a great idea for World Book Day, especially if your child has one of the event’s book tokens and the bookstore is a scheme participant. Make it an event, let your little one pick out a book, and it can become a truly special experience for them.

Dressing Up for Story Time

Children will love dressing up as their favourite book character! It doesn’t have to be complicated — a red top for Little Red Riding Hood, a black sheet or tablecloth for Harry Potter’s robe, or a stripey t-shirt for Where’s Wally can be effective as a little one’s costume. Then, snuggle up and read their chosen book together.

Creating a Cosy Storytelling Nook

A storytelling nook or corner is also a wonderful addition to a child’s home. Part of the fun is setting them up with your child, so they’re cosy and comfortable. Cushions, warm rugs, and child-safe LED candles give a bit of atmosphere and perhaps blankets can be stretched over a frame or furniture to create a snug teepee or den. Once complete, you and your child have somewhere welcoming and comfortable to read stories together. Follow the bold link to learn more about this magical idea.

Interactive Storytelling

Make books come to life with silly voices, props, and actions. These give stories a realistic slant as well as making them interactive — and great fun! For example, whispers can add suspense, scary voices can add tension, and well-placed silly voices can add a bit of humour! Perhaps go a step further and act out scenes with your child after reading sessions.

Sensory Play Inspired by Books

Stories can also be brought to life with hands-on sensory activities. For example, the book The Very Hungry Caterpillar could inspire a home fruit-tasting session! Let your child try different fruits and talk about their colours, textures, and flavours. Harry Potter books or Room on the Broom could inspire playful potion-making. Children could mix coloured water, glitter, leaves and all sorts of (safe) things for a magical potion play session!

Book-Themed Arts & Crafts

Books and stories can really inspire children’s creativity. So, why not harness that instinct and get them busy with some book-inspired crafts? Some easy creative ideas include making a DIY bookmark with stickers and drawings, creating a simple puppet of a story character, designing and decorating a mini picture book together, or even creating stories together that the children can illustrate.

Get Siblings Involved

If your child has older siblings, they can read aloud to their younger brother or sister, act out a story together, or even write their own book. Encouraging them to share their love of reading encourages little ones and makes the day even more special.

These are just a few ideas for families celebrating World Book Day. Be sure to check out the family activity ideas on the World Book Day website for even more ideas.

World Book Day is a fantastic way to introduce children to the joy of books, but why stop there? Reading with children is incredibly beneficial to them, so keep the reading fun going all year by making stories a daily part of playtime and bedtime. Happy World Book Day!

Little Cedars Day Nursery, Streatham

Today’s article was brought to you by the team at Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham. This wonderful nursery and preschool in London SW16 provides high-quality weekday childcare virtually all year round. It is rated as a Good Provider by Ofsted and supports funded childcare for eligible children under five including babies from just 9 months. Being located in Streatham, close to Tooting Common, means it may also be a convenient choice for families in Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood.

Get in touch today to explore a possible nursery place for your baby or child under five — we’d love to hear from you and would be happy to show you around on a guided visit with your child:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

28 February 2025/by Mark

Activity Ideas for Children, Children, Flora and Fauna, Indoor Activities for Kids, Nature, Nature Activities, Outdoor Play, Under-5s, Wildlife

World Wildlife Day Activities for Children Under 5

Families: get ready for World Wildlife Day! On 3rd March each year, we celebrate UN World Wildlife Day, an important event that is all about protecting nature’s flora and fauna. At nursery age, little ones are naturally curious and eager to learn more about the world around them. World Wildlife Day is therefore the perfect opportunity to inspire a greater love for nature and wildlife in our young. Exploring the wonders of plants, trees, and the animal kingdom teaches them more about the world and also helps children develop key skills like language, creativity, and empathy. Whether through outdoor play or wildlife-themed activities, engaging with nature’s wildlife can therefore create valuable early learning experiences. With that in mind, today’s post outlines some simple activities that children, including those under five*, can take part in to celebrate World Wildlife Day. We also highlight some of the benefits of nature to children towards the end of the post.

Wildlife-Themed Activities for Nursery Children

Getting outdoors is the best way to see wildlife, especially if your family lives near a park or the countryside. Rambles, picnics, and simple walks are all obvious options and, of course, wildlife sanctuaries are a good choice if you have one nearby. That said, while such outdoor options are amongst the best ways for children to connect with nature, sometimes they’re simply not possible. However, when that’s the case, there are plenty of other possibilities including bringing the wonders of wildlife into your nursery, home, or garden. Here are some engaging, age-appropriate activities that will allow children to take part in World Wildlife Day whatever their circumstances:

Animal Mask Craft

Encourage little ones, under supervision, to make their favourite animal masks using paper plates, paint, and string. Children will love the finished result! What’s more, they are sure to take on the characters of animals once they wear their creations, for example, with a roar from behind a tiger mask. Not only does this activity spark creativity, but it also allows children to role-play, learn about different creatures, and immerse themselves in different imaginary scenarios.

Wildlife Art

Most children naturally take to drawing, so encouraging them to draw wild animals, plants and birds will be a popular suggestion, especially around the time of World Wildlife Day. For example, they could try drawing British mammals like rabbits and squirrels, jungle animals like elephants and tigers, or sea creatures like dolphins and whales. To make it easier, perhaps give them some visual reference to inspire them. They could choose from a variety of media, be it pencils, crayons, paints, or collages — or something entirely different. Playdough or salt dough models are also an option. Children naturally love to create and, once complete, perhaps display their pieces to encourage future progress.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife is all around us, even in cities like London. From pigeons, robins, bats and urban foxes to ladybirds, millipedes and ants, there are lots of creatures to see if you know where to look. To help with such activities, check out our free, downloadable wildlife reference sheets. We have one for birds, another for mammals, one for minibeasts and a lovely one for butterflies. They’re all totally free – simply download and print.

Wildlife Story Time

Reading books about wildlife will introduce children to new animals and habitats. Great options for younger under-fives include ‘Dear Zoo’ by Rod Campbell and ‘Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?’ by Bill Martin Jr. (author) and Eric Carle (illustrator). Also, of course, children and families have the option to tell each other made-up stories. They’re a great way to encourage creative thinking and can be approached in a number of different ways. For example, a parent could tell a story first to give the child an idea of how to approach storytelling, or one family member could start the story and then another could make up the next part and so on. In this way, the story would evolve in surprising and unpredictable ways!

Bird Feeder Fun

Try making some simple bird feeders with your children. There are lots of easy ways to make them as outlined in our dedicated guide, bird feeder ideas for children. Hanging these outside allows children to observe birds up close and learn to recognise different species. What’s more, children will adore it when birds come to visit their creations. That said, teach children to be patient; birds can take a while before they begin to trust anything new.

Animal Yoga

Turn movement into learning by encouraging children to mimic animal movements. For example, they can hop like a frog, prowl like a cat, bounce like a kangaroo, or try to slither like a snake. Such activities will be fun and help them develop strength, coordination, and body awareness.

Nature Scavenger Hunts

Create a simple scavenger hunt using pictures, words, or our free nature hunt sheets to encourage children to find different natural objects like leaves, feathers, and pine cones. This activity builds children’s observation skills, gives them deep insights into nature, and instils in them a better appreciation for the environment. Currently, free reference sheets are available for an autumn nature hunt, a winter nature hunt, and a leaves scavenger hunt. Also check out our Exploring Spring with Under-5s activity idea, which is a similar concept (new reference sheet to follow later this year).

Sensory Nature Play

Fill a tray with natural materials like leaves, pine cones, wheat ears, and sand, and let age-appropriate children explore the different textures. You could even play a game where they close their eyes and try to guess what they’re touching. This hands-on experience aids sensory development and fine motor skills while also encouraging children to appreciate the finer details of natural things.

Wildlife-Themed Songs and Rhymes

Another simple way for under-fives to celebrate World Wildlife Day is to sing songs and rhymes about animals. Examples include 5 Little Ducks Go Swimming One Day, Incy Wincy Spider, Baa Baa Black Sheep, Mary Had a Little Lamb and Old MacDonald Had a Farm. This activity helps reinforce language development and introduces children to different wildlife in a fun and engaging way.

Simple Science with Plants

Engage children with easy science experiments, like planting seeds and watching them grow or observing how water moves through a flower’s stem using food colouring. Such activities are fascinating for children and help them understand basic biological concepts in an interactive way.

The Benefits of Connecting Young Children with Nature

Spending time in nature or learning about wildlife isn’t just fun—it has incredible benefits for early childhood development. To harness such benefits, families can incorporate nature-based learning into children’s routines in a variety of ways. Examples include organising outdoor exploration sessions, setting up small wildlife observation areas, and using nature-themed storytelling to engage the young learners. Connecting children with nature:

Encourages curiosity and creativity. For example, observing bugs, leaves, or birds encourages children to ask questions and think creatively about the world around them.
Supports language development. For example, talking about animals, their sounds, and habitats helps build new vocabulary and boosts communication skills.
Enhances emotional well-being. For example, research shows that spending time in nature reduces stress and promotes calmness, even in young children.
Teaches empathy and responsibility. For example, caring for plants, feeding birds, or learning about endangered animals helps children understand their needs more deeply and encourages greater kindness towards living things.
Benefits children academically. For example, in studies, even just a view of green outdoor space has been shown to boost academic performance.

These are just a few of the many benefits that spending time in and around nature has for children. Learn more about the importance of nature and its many benefits to children here.

Make Wildlife a Natural Part of Children’s Lives

Incorporating wildlife into children’s activities doesn’t have to be limited to one day. Encouraging youngsters to notice the birds in the garden, look for insects on nature walks, or watch the changing seasons can gift them a lifelong love of nature. Parents and families can make wildlife observation a regular habit, perhaps by keeping a simple nature sketchbook where children can draw or glue in pictures of what they see, or by creating a wildlife corner at home with books, nature finds, and small child-safe plants. Even setting up a bird-watching station near a window can turn everyday moments into exciting learning opportunities. By celebrating World Wildlife Day, we can inspire the next generation of nature lovers—one little explorer at a time!

Children Love Nature at Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham

At Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham, we love helping children connect more deeply with nature — we understand how important it is to their learning and development. As well as having natural, open, spaces nearby, children also get to enjoy and learn from the nursery’s plant and vegetable area. There, they can nurture plants as well as harvest their own nursery-grown vegetables. They love seeing the fruits (and vegetables!) of their labour and it gives them an enormous feeling of achievement. In addition, such nature-based nursery activities teach children valuable lessons about empathy, responsibility, cause and effect, how their efforts can be rewarded, where food comes from, and the circle of life. It’s all just one small part of the wider early years education that children receive at Little Cedars Nursery.

If you are considering a possible nursery place for your baby or child at Little Cedars Day Nursery, Streatham, please get in touch:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

Little Cedars Nursery is a wonderful nursery in Streatham, London SW16. The high-quality setting supports free childcare for eligible children under five and babies as young as 9 months. It is rated as a Good Provider by Ofsted. As well as serving Streatham families, the setting may also be a convenient choice for families from Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood.

^{* Children, especially the young, should be supervised appropriately by a responsible adult. Also, check out our safety tips for outdoor play.}

18 February 2025/by Mark

Babies, Childhood Development, Early Years, Health, Health & Wellbeing, Infants, Nursery, Parenting, Under-5s

The Dangers of Kissing Babies

The natural instinct of many adults is to kiss the new baby of a friend or relative. Yet many are unaware of how potentially dangerous kissing an infant baby can be. Indeed, in the worst scenarios, the child could be permanently damaged or even lose their life. As many adults are simply unaware of such dangers, today’s article exposes the risks that a simple kiss can represent to a newborn or infant baby and why it’s essential for parents to take precautions to protect them.

“A nationwide survey of 2,300 new and expectant parents … found that 54% would let friends and family kiss their newborn baby, unaware of the risk of serious infection.” — The Lullaby Trust^∞

Babies Have Immature Immune Systems & Are More at Risk

Immune systems are complex things and, despite babies being passed a level of protection via their mother’s milk, it can take some time before babies’ immune systems are advanced enough to fight off infections that an older child is naturally protected against. In the first few months of a newborn baby’s life, they have immature immune systems and therefore they are far more susceptible to infections than older children and adults. What’s more worrying, though, is that being exposed to certain viruses and microbes can cause irreparable harm to them — and even death.

“Even infections that cause mild symptoms such as a common cold in adults and older children can be life-threatening for babies” — The Lullaby Trust

The ‘Blood-Brain Barrier’

Without getting too technical, the Blood-Brain Barrier (‘BBB’) can be thought of as a thick, semipermeable membrane of special cells that protect the brain. In tandem with allowing oxygen and nutrients to be delivered from the bloodstream to the brain, it helps to retain good things inside it. Importantly, the BBB also helps to keep out germs, diseases, toxic substances, and other potentially damaging impurities from entry into the brain.

The ‘Blood-Brain Barrier’ Takes Months to Mature

Here’s the important thing in respect to babies: in newborn and infant babies, the blood-brain barrier is not fully developed and their immune systems are still being trained. And, although born with a blood-brain barrier, that barrier needs further time to develop as it continues to tighten, thereby protecting the brain more during a child’s early life. That’s incredibly important to grasp because infections in the brain can be potentially catastrophic and especially so for babies under the age of 4 months.

An infection that could cause mild symptoms in older children and adults could be life-threatening for newborns.

What’s the Worst That Can Happen to Compromised Babies?

A baby whose brain is compromised by an infection crossing an immature blood-brain barrier can suffer potentially catastrophic consequences. A brain infection can lead to brain inflammation, brain swelling, brain damage, loss of consciousness, stroke, seizures, epilepsy, and potentially even death. It’s critically important, therefore, to protect children from such potential risks, especially in their first few months and during their first year.

“The younger the baby, the more vulnerable they are to the harmful effects of infection.” — NHS

The Risks from Kissing Babies

So, what has all this got to do with kissing babies? Well, because the BBB in babies and young infants is immature, the risks of infection to the brain are far higher. General germs, viruses and colds are, of course, a concern along with illnesses that cause ill health, diarrhoea or vomiting. However, active cold sores are a particular worry to parents who are aware of the safety issues around kissing babies. That’s because the virus that causes cold sores is actually the herpes simplex^∞ virus, which can be passed to the baby through a simple kiss on the head. It’s a very common virus and, indeed, most adults carry the HSV-1 variant of the virus but don’t realise they do. For adults, it causes cold sores but can also cause genital herpes (HSV-2).

“The herpes simplex virus can be passed to a baby through a cold sore if a person has a cold sore and kisses the baby.” — NHS

If infected by neonatal herpes^∞, a baby could become seriously ill or even die, particularly if the infection spreads to the infant’s internal organs. This is therefore a serious issue that parents need to be aware of and take measures against. And it’s all the more important in the earliest part of a baby’s life due to the immaturity of their immune system and BBB.

“A baby is most at risk of getting a herpes infection in the first 4 weeks after birth.” — NHS

Cold sore infections are most contagious when the blisters they cause burst, and remain a danger until fully healed. Therefore it’s important never to let anyone with such a condition touch or kiss a baby.

Measures Parents Can Take to Protect Babies

Parents who show signs of infection and any visitors (who could, in theory, be carrying anything) should follow some simple rules to help newborns and young infants stay safer from harmful infections.

Wash hands before touching babies.
Never kiss a newborn baby or infant, particularly on the head, except when you’re their parent or main carer and are in good health.
Even if you are their parent or main carer, avoid kissing them and wash hands before breastfeeding if you have recently been unwell or, of course, if you have any kind of infection.
Parents/carers with cold sore blisters or other herpes-related lesions should cover them whenever they’re around babies.
Parents/carers should alert family members and other visitors about the risks, especially when babies are at their youngest.

“Despite the risk, 63% of new and expectant parents would feel uneasy asking visitors not to touch their baby, worried that they’d offend someone, hurt their feelings, or be labelled an overprotective parent.” — NHS

Telling family and friends why you don’t want them to touch or kiss a baby can feel awkward. However, the risks are huge to babies, so such requests are essential. In view of this, The Lullaby Trust has produced the following video, which can be shared by parents to make communication about this issue less difficult:

With the right approach, it’s possible for friends and family to meet your new baby while taking steps to help prevent infection.

Weekday Childcare for Babies & Under-5s in Streatham

Little Cedars is a wonderful nursery and preschool in Streatham. We’re recognised as a ‘good provider’ of childcare and early years education by Ofsted and, as such, give babies and children under five a fabulous start in life. What’s more, we also support a wide range of free childcare options for eligible children through several of the Government’s childcare funding schemes. So, do consider us if you are looking for a high-quality weekday childcare service in Streatham or live in nearby locations like Streatham Common, Streatham Hill, Streatham Park, Tooting Common, Tooting, Tooting Broadway, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury or Colliers Wood.

Consider a childcare place at Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham today. Choose an option to get started:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

SAFETY NOTICE

The information in this post is produced in good faith but should not be relied on as medical advice. Parents should do their own research to gather all the facts. You know your child best so, if you believe they may be unwell, trust your instincts. If you suspect they are unwell or may have an infection, it’s important to seek urgent professional medical advice — for example, from your midwife, health visitor, GP, NHS 111, or hospital A&E department.

29 November 2024/by Mark

Babies, Childcare, Childcare Funding, Early Years Education, Free Childcare, Nurseries, Nursery, Preschool, Streatham, Under-5s

Deadlines for Free Childcare Codes (Time-Sensitive!)

There are three possible deadlines when applying for free childcare funding for working families and that’s true whether you are applying for the ‘15 hours’ scheme for children aged 9 months to 2 years (inclusive), or the ‘30 hours’ scheme for children aged 3 and 4. And, with a child’s exact age affecting which term they can begin using the free childcare, correct timing of applications is crucial. If you apply too late, you won’t receive your childcare code in time for your child to start in the term you had envisaged. Applying too early is also not a viable option. Put simply, timing misjudgements could leave you and your child high and dry.

With all that in mind, today’s post outlines the application timing requirements for these key childcare funding schemes for working families. It also serves as a reminder that those who want their child to start childcare next term have very limited time left to apply — and receive that all-important childcare funding code.

Example

If you want your child to start in the January term next year, you need to apply in the preceding quarter, by 31 December at the absolute latest.

Which Childcare Funding is This?

So, we’re talking here about the newly-expanded childcare funding for eligible working families for children, living in England, aged from 9 months up to compulsory school age. (Follow the bold link to learn more about that, including eligibility rules). Using the scheme, eligible children can receive 570 hours of free childcare per year if they’re aged from 9 months up until they turn 3, or 1140 hours per annum if they’re aged 3 or 4. That usually equates to 15 and 30 hours per week respectively, over 38* term-time weeks of the year.

* Speak to your childcare provider if you’d like the total number of free childcare hours stretched out a different way as some can offer a degree of flexibility.

How Old Must My Child Be Before I Can Apply for the Funding?

A child’s age affects when applications for the childcare funding can be made and there are also minimum ages for the provision of the childcare itself.

Once an eligible child reaches the age of 23 weeks (approximately 5.3 months), applications for the ‘15 hours’ childcare funding scheme can be made. The provision itself will not be available until they reach the age of at least 9 months.
Once an eligible child reaches the age of 2 years and 36 weeks (a little over 2 years and 8 months) applications for the ‘30 hours’ childcare funding scheme can be made. The provision itself will not be available until they are at least 3.

In Which Term Can Children Start Using the Free Childcare?

Most children start using their free childcare hours at the beginning of one of the 3 terms (January, April and September). Which term they can start in depends on when their birthday falls during the year:

Eligible children with a birthday between September and December inclusive can start from the January term. They should apply in the preceding term no later than 31 December.
Eligible children with a birthday between January and March inclusive can start from the April term. They should apply in the preceding term no later than 31 March.
Eligible children with a birthday between April and August inclusive can start from the September term. They should apply in the preceding term no later than 31 August.

Individual childcare settings will be able to confirm the exact term dates and funded starting dates for their particular setting.

Apply for Your Code

Begin your application for childcare funding and that all-important code here. The link will tell you what you will need including your National Insurance number, phone access and just a few other details. You’ll also need to access your Government Gateway account but can set one up from the same link if you don’t already have one. It’s quick and easy and you’ll usually find out whether you’re eligible right away, although occasionally it can take longer. If eligible and approved for the free childcare funding, you’ll be supplied with a code to give your childcare provider.

Important: Reconfirm Your Eligibility Every Quarter

It’s important to reconfirm your eligibility, via your government childcare account, every three months. That’s in order to ensure your code remains valid.

When Does the Free Childcare Funding End?

The free childcare hours for eligible working families come to an end when your child begins school in Reception class from the age of four or, if deferring until later, reaches compulsory school age at five.

Funded Childcare at Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham

Little Cedars Day Nursery supports many government-funded childcare schemes, making for more affordable childcare in Streatham, Furzedown, Tooting and Balham. With the upgraded 15 and 30-hour schemes available to eligible working families, they can now access free childcare for children as young as just 9 months of age. Children benefit from a good early years education from a young age and parents get to more affordably rejoin the workplace to boost household income and careers. It’s a win-win!

Start your application to Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham, visit us with your child, or message us with any questions today:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

As a ‘Good Provider’, Little Cedars Nursery offers a high-quality childcare service in Streatham and is also a great choice for families nearby in Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood.

19 November 2024/by Mark

Babies, Childcare, Children, Early Years Education, Learning & Development, Little Cedars Day Nursery, Nurseries, Nursery, Preschool, Streatham, SW16, Under-5s

38 Weeks, 42 Weeks & All-Year-Round Childcare in Streatham

At Little Cedars Nursery in Streatham, we offer a range of three main options for weekday childcare and early years education. Some families require all-year-round childcare for their under-five child. Others may prefer (or, if funded through Government schemes, only be eligible for) “term-time” cover over 38 weeks of the year. Between those two options, Little Cedars Nursery also now offers a ‘midway’ solution that provides childcare cover for 42 weeks. In today’s post, we clarify how the options work and differ over the course of the year, including in calendar form so that parents can see the differences graphically. See our overview below and click the calendar image for a larger view. If you have any questions, use one of the contact options at the end of today’s post and we’ll be happy to help.

All-Year-Round Childcare

Our all-year-round childcare option does pretty much “what it says on the tin” and provides weekday childcare and early years education right across the year. Apart, of course, from that week or so when we’re closed over Christmas/New Year and on inset days and public holidays. So, it’s a great solution for busy parents.

38 Weeks of Childcare

Our 38-week childcare option is particularly well-suited for those families whose childcare is funded through one of the key Government childcare schemes. These typically fund a child over 38 weeks of the year. However, do talk to us (or your childcare provider if not Little Cedars Nursery) if you would like to explore the possibility of stretching the hours out over more weeks of the year.

The term dates and holidays for the 38-week option match very closely with those of most schools*, so are often referred to as ‘term-time’ places. So, if you have an older child at school as well as a child at nursery or preschool, your under-five child’s timetable should synchronise well if they attend using the 38-week option.

^{* Term dates sometimes differ a little from school to school. Check yours here.}

The 38-week option also ties in with the legal minimum number of days that childcare settings like ours are required to be open each year (190 days when the nursery must be open to children plus 5 inset days for staff training and development).

42 Weeks of Childcare

Little Cedars Nursery has also introduced a childcare timetable that’s somewhere between the all-year-round and 38-week options. With our “42-week” childcare option, under-fives at Little Cedars Nursery are looked after over four more weeks of the year than provided by the 38-week option. This will give greater flexibility for families, particularly where parents simply cannot take as much time off work as there are school breaks. For example, childcare is provided during the school half-term break in February, during one week of normal school closures between spring and summer term in early April, and during two weeks of the school summer holidays in late July/early August. Take a look at the calendar provided above to see how the three options differ across the academic year.

Days when children don’t attend, common to all three options, are:

Inset days when we’re closed to childcare provision while staff attend training and development sessions.
Bank holidays and public holidays when, like virtually all businesses, the nursery is closed.
The week or so between the start of Christmas and the New Year, when the nursery is closed.

Check Out our Competitive Fees

You can check out our competitive childcare fees here. There are a few things to note therein:

Fee-paying places have slightly longer sessions, with morning sessions starting at 7:45 am and afternoon sessions finishing at 6:15 pm. In contrast, term-time Government-funded places begin a little later at 8:00 am and the afternoon sessions finish at 6:00 pm.
Lunch hour occurs between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm.
For some children receiving government-funded hours, additional fees may be required for meals.
The standard £85 daily fee and £46 half-day fee are reduced, in effect, for those attending all year round.
Fee-paying siblings of children already attending the nursery are eligible for a 13% discount.

^{Fees and details are correct at the time of writing (31 October 2024).}

High-Quality Weekday Childcare at Little Cedars Nursery, Streatham

Do you have a baby, toddler, or child under five in or around the Streatham area? If so, do consider us today for your childcare provision. As you can see above, we have several options that will suit a variety of different family situations. We also support many Government-funded free childcare schemes for eligible families. What’s more, we’re way more than just a childcare provider; we nurture every child to bring out the best in every area of their learning and development, enabling them to thrive and be ‘school-ready’ by the time they leave us to begin primary school.

Little Cedars Nursery is located in Streatham and is just a stone’s throw from Tooting Common. So, we will suit families requiring childcare nurseries in Streatham, Streatham Common, Streatham Hill, and Streatham Park as well as those looking for good nurseries near Tooting, Tooting Broadway, Furzedown, Balham, Norbury and Colliers Wood.

Contact us today, book a free guided tour of the nursery, message us or ask us a question — we’ll be happy to help:

Apply for a Place Arrange a Visit or Message Us 020 8677 9675

31 October 2024/by Mark