Preschools are registered by the Government regulatory bodies and are inspected every year. Half the staff must be trained and some may be qualified teachers. They'll offer lots of opportunities for children to learn through play, and most offer a Government-approved early years curriculum.

Preschool early years education can cover a range of provisions for younger children. From one or two days a week, to five day week care, preschools are run on a not-for-profit basis (so they're not state or private), most often by parent management committees. Normally, they charge fees, although these are kept to a minimum and your child may be entitled to a free part-time place.

An increasing number offer extended or full daycare, but the majority run shorter sessions, ranging from two-and-a-half to four hours.

Ages covered
Mainly children between two and four years, although a growing number cater for younger children.

The minimum child/staff ratios are:

children under two: 3:1
two-year-olds: 4:1
children aged three to seven: 8:1

Very often, the ratios are often much higher as many parents help out.

Pros
A preschool will be registered and inspected regularly
It will be run by trained staff and may have a qualified teacher
It will be local and community-based
Your child will be among children his own age
He'll have access to play and learning opportunities, and usually to a Government-approved early years curriculum
It may offer full-time care

Cons
You may need additional childcare as most preschools operate three-hour sessions, with normal school holidays of around 13 weeks a year
The premises may be used for other purposes, eg a church hall
There are some fees involved, although your child may be entitled to a free part-time place

Typical costs
An average of £3.50 for a three-hour session. This varies widely depending on where you live.

How to find a playgroup
ChildcareLink
A Government service that provides information and advice on childcare.
Freephone: 0800 096 0296
Website: www.childcarelink.gov.uk
This doesn't include Northern Ireland - try your local health and social services trusts instead.

The Pre-school Learning Alliance
Tel: 020 7833 0991
Website: www.pre-school.org.uk

Early Years
Tel: 028 9066 2825
Website: www.early-years.org/

Nothing beats a personal recommendation; ask other parents if they know of a good local preschool.