Minister Hails Funded Childcare

Parents are being urged to take advantage of funded childcare now available for 20,000 two-year-olds from low income families.

The entitlement to 600 hours a year of funded early learning and childcare for three and four-year-olds is being extended to the 27% most disadvantaged two-year-olds from August.

Previously around 15% of two-year-olds were eligible for the extra provision.

Acting minister for children Fiona McLeod used a visit to Dens Nursery in Dundee to highlight the change and encourage parents to take up their child's place.

She said: We know the early years are a crucial point in a child's life where they develop essential skills. This is especially true for more vulnerable or disadvantaged children and I'm pleased they will be able to benefit from this extra provision.

This is not simply about childcare; it is about ensuring all three and four-year-olds and those two-year-olds who would benefit the most have access to high quality early learning and education in a nurturing environment.

This will allow them to develop vital skills including literacy and numeracy from an early age.

I'm encouraging all parents and carers to check if their child is eligible for funded early learning and childcare and register now so they can get their place in the autumn term.''

A public information campaign with advice for parents and carers on the eligibility criteria for funded early learning and childcare will begin next month.