Pre-schools or playgroups provide care and many also provide early education for children between three and five years old.

A pre-school or playgroup is a group organised by the community or voluntary groups on a not-for-profit basis, often with help from parents.

They offer sessions from three hours, during term time, either every day or on several days a week.

Your child should experience learning and development activities suitable for their age, which are based on the Birth to Three Matters Framework and Foundation Stage.

Pre-schools are a good way of extending your childcare and some are developing their services to offer longer sessions or full-time daycare.

For more information on pre-schools or playgroups you can contact the Wakefield District Families Information Service on 0800 587 8042 or look on their website (see 'Related Links').