NewToIreland.ie

Childcare & Nurseries in Ireland

A guide to childcare in Ireland — from finding a crèche or childminder to claiming ECCE free preschool and National Childcare Scheme subsidies.

2 guides in this topic

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Childcare Costs in Ireland and How to Reduce Them

Full-time childcare in Ireland is expensive — but there are subsidies, schemes, and options that can significantly reduce what you pay.

5 min read

ECCE Free Preschool in Ireland: What You Need to Know

Ireland's free preschool year (ECCE) gives all eligible children 15 hours of free preschool per week. Here's how to access it and what to expect.

4 min read

The childcare landscape in Ireland

Childcare in Ireland is expensive by European standards — a full-time crèche place for a child under 1 year can cost €1,000–€2,000 per month in Dublin. Government subsidies have improved affordability in recent years, but the cost remains a significant burden for many families. Planning ahead and understanding available supports can make a real difference.

Types of childcare

  • Full daycare/crèche — structured childcare for babies and young children, typically 7:30am–6pm. Most expensive option.
  • Childminder — a carer who looks after children in their own home. Can be more flexible and personal; costs vary widely.
  • Au pair — a live-in or live-out young person who provides childcare in exchange for accommodation, meals, and pocket money. More common in larger homes.
  • Montessori or play schools — typically half-day sessions for children aged 2.5+; focus on structured play and learning.

ECCE — free preschool year

The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme provides a free preschool year to all children aged between 2 years and 8 months and 5 years and 6 months. Children attend for approximately 3 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 38 weeks per year. The session is free — parents pay nothing. Apply through your chosen ECCE provider (crèche, Montessori, or play school). This is a hugely valuable benefit and one all parents should use.

National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

The NCS provides two types of subsidies for childcare:

  • Universal subsidy — a flat rate subsidy for all children under 15 in registered childcare, regardless of income. Currently €1.40 per hour (2024).
  • Income-assessed subsidy — additional subsidy based on family income. Families on lower incomes can receive significantly more, potentially reducing childcare costs by 50% or more.

Apply at ncs.gov.ie. You'll need a MyGovID account and the childcare provider must be registered with Tusla.

Finding registered childcare

All childcare providers in Ireland must be registered with Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. Use the Tusla registered provider search at tusla.ie to find registered services in your area. Always check that any provider you use is Tusla-registered before enrolling your child.

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