Parents praise early years education childcare

New insights from parents reveal that formal childcare is much more than a safe space; it’s a transformative environment where children develop essential life skills in an early years education setting. Over half (56%) of parents report that their children have made significant strides in communication and social skills through formal childcare, highlighting its crucial role in early childhood development.

In addition, the research by the Department of Education showed parents also report substantial growth in their children’s confidence (46%), independence (35%), and creativity (34%) since beginning formal childcare.

Financial support plays a pivotal role in families’ ability to access childcare. Half (50%) of parents surveyed cited government financial aid as crucial when their child first started in a formal childcare setting. Recent expansions in childcare support mean that families previously ineligible for assistance may now qualify.

Aston spoke to psychologist Dr Amanda Gummer.