Choosing a childcare setting can be confusing, but the decision is made easier if you know what to look for in advance.

Do the children seem happy and the carers calm and kind? What about things like food, sleep and discipline? Fortunately, there are several organizations which can help you do your homework.

Ofsted registration

All childminders and day-care providers caring for young children under eight - including playgroups, pre-schools, private nurseries, crèches and out-of-school clubs - must be registered by Ofsted on the Early Years Register (or in Wales, by the Care Standards Inspectorate).

Registration includes a criminal records check on anyone involved in providing childcare and an inspection of the premises to look at health and safety and educational welfare issues. Childcare providers caring for older children (aged five to seven years), must join the compulsory part of the Ofsted Childcare Register.

You can check that the childcare provider is registered by asking to see a registration certificate, or by contacting Ofsted. If you have any doubts about a provider, check with your local Families Information Service (FIS). You can get the number of your nearest FIS by calling 0800 234 6346.

In England, the following types of childcare do not have to be registered with Ofsted:

• childcare for children aged eight and over
• care for children of any age that is based around one or two activities
• care that is provided in the child's home (eg nannies)

However, if the provider meets the requirements and wishes to register on the voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register it can do so, unless the childcare is provided directly by a school.

Ofsted inspection reports

Ofsted produce reports when they inspect childcare for children under the age of six. These reports provide detailed information based on the annual inspections.

When Ofsted inspect care that is registered on the Ofsted Childcare Register, they will produce a letter confirming whether or not the registration requirements have been met.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

All schools and early years providers have to follow a structure of learning, development and care for children. This is called The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and it enables your child learn through a range of activities.

National Quality Improvement Network (NQIN)

Childcare providers who belong to NQIN have shown a commitment to quality childcare that is of a high standard, so where possible you may prefer to choose one of these providers.

Do your own research

It is always a good idea to visit childcare providers yourself - inspections and accreditation are no substitute for parental judgement.

If you're thinking of employing a nanny, bear in mind that compulsory government-sponsored registration and accreditation schemes do not apply to them - although they can join the Ofsted Childcare Register voluntarily. It is up to you, as parent and employer, to make sure that you hire a nanny who will look after your children well.

Reporting concerns and complaints

If you have a concern or complaint you cannot resolve with your registered childcare provider, call Ofsted's Early Years Complaints Helpline on 0845 601 4772. Ofsted does not usually become involved in complaints over fees and contractual arrangements.

For more information on standards in childcare go to directgov.uk