Budgeting for Childcare: Tips, Support and How We Help at My Ohana
At My Ohana, we know that budgeting for childcare is one of the biggest considerations for families. Whether you're returning to work or exploring nursery options for the first time, understanding how to manage the cost of early years care can be a challenge - and we’re here to help.
Our goal is to make nursery both affordable and transparent, while ensuring your child receives the very best start in life. In this guide, you’ll find helpful insights into our payment structure, advice on how to plan ahead, and information on the support available to reduce your childcare costs.
Contents
5 Practical Tips for Budgeting for Childcare
Here are a few steps to help you plan ahead and keep costs manageable:
1. Start budgeting early
If you’re expecting a baby or planning a return to work, begin researching childcare options early. Build a realistic monthly budget that factors in both your income and expected costs.
2. Explore flexible working or childcare sharing
If your employer allows flexible working, splitting childcare duties with a partner or trusted family member can reduce how many paid hours you need. Some families also consider a ‘nanny share’ with another family to split costs.
3. Compare providers carefully
Prices vary significantly between nurseries, childminders, and nannies. Consider what works best for your routine and budget.
4. Use government support
Make sure you’re taking advantage of all the schemes available (more on this below).
5. Review costs regularly
As your child grows, your childcare needs may change. Revisit your budget regularly to ensure you're still getting the best value for your family’s needs.
How to Reduce Childcare Costs
Childcare in the UK can be expensive, but there are several schemes and strategies to help lower the cost:
1. Use Government-Funded Hours
15 or 30 hours of free childcare available per week for 3 and 4-year-olds (and some eligible 2-year-olds).
At My Ohana, we’re fully registered to offer these funded places.
2. Tax-Free Childcare
For every £8 you pay into your childcare account, the government adds £2 - up to £2,000 per child per year.
You can use this alongside funded hours.
3. Universal Credit for Childcare
Eligible families can claim up to 85% of childcare costs, capped monthly at £1,014.63 for two or more children.
4. Workplace Support
Some employers offer salary sacrifice childcare schemes (closed to new applicants but still active for some).
5. Sibling Discounts or Referrals
Some of our nurseries offer sibling discounts or benefits for referrals — just ask your local team for details.
How Our Nursery Payments Work
Every My Ohana nursery is run as an independent business, but we operate using a consistent and transparent payment structure to make budgeting easier for families.
Here’s how it works:
Session options: Choose from full day (8am–5.30pm), morning or afternoon sessions, depending on what suits your routine.
Booking pattern: You’ll create a regular booking pattern (minimum of two full days or four half sessions per month).
Advance invoicing: Invoices are issued two weeks before the start of each month, with payment due on the first working day of the new month.
ParentZone app: All payments are handled through our secure ParentZone platform.
We give as much notice as possible for all upcoming fees, and we’re happy to discuss changes to your booking pattern when possible.
Is Nursery Worth the Cost?
It can be hard to decide if nursery is worth the cost, but at My Ohana, we truly believe it is.
We understand that childcare is a major financial commitment — but we also know it’s an investment in your child’s development. At My Ohana, we don’t just provide supervision; we offer a nurturing, enriching space where children grow in confidence, curiosity, and creativity.
Quality nursery care supports:
Early socialisation and independence
School readiness
Personal development through play, learning and exploration
When considered long term, nursery is so much more than a convenient option — it’s an opportunity for your child to thrive.
Can I Claim My Childcare Costs?
Yes, if your provider is Ofsted registered (as all My Ohana nurseries are), you can claim through:
Tax-Free Childcare
Universal Credit
Free Early Education Entitlement
You can check what you're eligible for by using the Childcare Choices calculator.
Late Fees and Payment Expectations
To ensure we continue to provide high-quality care, on-time payment is important. Here’s what to expect:
Payment deadline: First working day of each month.
Late payments: Incur a 5% daily charge.
Late pick-ups: £10 per 15 minutes outside your booked session — this helps us maintain fair staffing and attention for all children.
We appreciate your understanding - and always aim to communicate clearly and proactively about payment dates.
What If You Need Help Paying?
We know that conversations around finances can be difficult - but at My Ohana, we’re always here to support you.
Whether you’re already a parent with us or considering enrolling your child, we encourage open dialogue. You can speak to a member of our friendly team at drop-off or pick-up, or get in touch directly to discuss options, funding, or flexible sessions.
We’re With You Every Step of the Way
Budgeting for childcare can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At My Ohana, we aim to make every part of your nursery journey easier — from session planning and flexible options to helping you understand what government support you can access.
We’re proud to be part of your family’s story — offering more than just care, but a place where your child can truly thrive.
