You might be going back to work, studying, or thinking about the benefits of education and childcare for your toddler. If you’re looking into childcare, you may be eligible for up to 15 hours a week of free childcare at a childminder, nursery, playgroup or preschool.
You can get free childcare for a two-year-old if you receive certain benefits, if your child has special education needs, they’re looked after or has a disability, or you meet other criteria.
Check Lambeth’s website to find out if you’re eligible for this support and to apply.
Childcare can be fun for your 2-year-old, and they’ll learn a lot too.
Your child will learn through play, having lots of fun spending time indoors and outdoors.
They'll paint, draw, play with sand and water, sing, share stories, climb, and build.
Your child will be supported to create relationships and make friends.
They'll learn to take turns and play together.
They'll develop their independence and confidence in themselves as they choose activities to do and try out new things.
Your child will develop their communication and language skills as they play with their friends, take part in small group activities and talk about what they're doing.
Time for you
You'll get some time to yourself to rest, take on part-time work, catch up with friends or housework, do a food shop... whatever you use the time for, your 2-year-old will be in safe hands.
You'll also be able to discuss with the childminder or nursery staff your child’s development and how to further support their learning.
The more you feel supported by others the more you can support your child with their feelings and development.
Watch the video below for more about free early learning for two-year-olds in Lambeth.
If you are eligible, you can get 15 hours of free childcare a week for 38 weeks a year (570 hours in total).
Funding is available from the term after your child turns 2:
Born on or in between Term eligible for funding
1 January to 31 March Summer term (April onwards)
1 April to 31 August Autumn term (September onwards)
1 September to 31 December Spring term (January onwards)
The free place can be offered by any nursery or childminder judged outstanding or good by Ofsted, so you know they’ll be safe and secure.
You may need to provide wipes, nappies and a change of clothes, and you can provide a packed lunch if you do not wish to buy a meal from your childcare provider.
Check Lambeth’s website to find out if you’re entitled to this support and to apply.
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