Childcare in Dublin

Childcare in Dublin is widely available, but often demands an even wider wallet. In 2010, the government announced the ECCE Government Pre-School Scheme which guarantees children one year of free pre-school education in listed centres.

Childcare is offered in four different sectors: sessional services, full-day care, childminders and drop-in centres.

ECCE Government Pre-School Scheme

This new scheme offers parents a choice of a free year consisting of 50 weeks or 38 weeks depending on their needs.
To break it down, under the 50 week scheme, the government will contribute €48.50 per week for 50 weeks. This covers the cost of 2 hours 15 minutes childcare per day for 5 days per week, or 3 hours 45 minutes per day for 3 days per week to children who register and qualify for the scheme.
Under the 38 week scheme the government will contribute €64.50 for 3 hours per day for 5 days per week to children who are registered and qualify.

Childcare Centres in Dublin

These centres can be found in every urban area and are growing in popularity in rural areas. They usually cater to children aged from three-months to 12-years. Opening hours vary but they usually open early in the morning for pre-work care. Many offer after-school care for older children as well.

In general, the cost of childcare in Dublin is significantly higher than in other parts of the country. The National Children’s Nursery Association reported that families with two or more children can pay more for childcare than for their mortgage.

Childminders in Dublin

This system is great for parents who wish to leave their children in a private home with a smaller number of children, or for those who would rather have a childminder come to their house. Usually a childminder will take in one to four children at a time. The relationship between childminder and parents can become very close. Costs are lower than with a childcare centre, however if the minder is ill there is no back-up for the working parent. Childcare in Dublin is widely available, but demands an even wider wallet.