As a childminder I have, quite rightly, strict limits to the number of children I can have at any one time. For under fives I am restricted to three children. As a business I need to ensure, as far as possible that these places are as efficiently used as possible. Hence my five hours minimum per day. Though I do believe that children, and the parents, benefit from having enough time to get properly involved in the activities with the other children.
Childcare providers need to meet the criteria set by their local authority to deliver the free entitlement. Being on the childminding Network automatically qualifies me and also gives me support to provide the best learning experience for your child.
The EYFE is the Free Entitlement scheme for three year olds. Parents can claim this for the term after their child's third birthday. My minimum booking for each day is five hours up to a total of 30 hours per week regardless of which settings you use. The entitlement can be split between settings.
The FEET is the Free Entitlement scheme for two year olds. Parents can claim this for the term after their child's second birthday. My minimum booking is for five hours. Under this scheme you would be able to claim the full five hours over three days per week.