Join the thousands of parents in Lancashire who already have a funded place for their two-year-olds.

Lancashire nurseries and childminders offer a range of funded early education and childcare from two to four-years-olds. Some two-year-olds can access a funded place for 15 hours a week.

This depends on their individual family circumstances. Lancashire parents can go to Lancashire County Council's website to view the criteria and check their eligibility for a two-year-old funded place.

Eligible families can claim a funded place from the term after their child's second birthday.

Across Lancashire almost all nurseries and childminders are rated good or outstanding. Families can be confident their child is looked after in a safe, secure environment. All our nurseries and childminders are fully inclusive and cater for a range of cultural, dietary, religious and special educational needs.

The Chatterbox Club in Burnley has been operating for almost 19 years with 24 places for two-year-olds. They offer morning and afternoon sessions during term time. It is graded outstanding by Ofsted.

They said: “Staff provide an exceptionally caring and stimulating learning environment for children.”    

The nursery has an extensive outdoor play area. Children can engage and explore their natural environment, nurturing their health and well-being.  

Asian Image: 'We are keen to ensure that all children have the opportunity to shine''We are keen to ensure that all children have the opportunity to shine'

Grace Walker, manager at the Chatterbox Club, said: "We are keen to ensure that all children have the opportunity to shine, achieve and reach their full potential.  Bespoke training days ensure we continue to drive forward with skilled early years staff.

"A well planned, language-rich environment increases opportunities to use language, to interact, to talk and to take turns. Our setting celebrates the valuable contribution diversity brings to all our lives. We work hard to respect and learn about all cultures. 

"Feedback from parents and nursery children suggests that they feel supported, that their views are valued. We take time to acknowledge that they are their children’s first educator, and a love of learning begins at home.  One of our parents said she chose the Chatterbox Club because of the gentle, child-centred ethos, natural materials and toys, the outdoor area and staff’s caring nature."

The Beacon Day Nursery, Nelson, has been operating since July 2009 and has 52 full time places during term time. It has a good Ofsted rating.

Asian Image: 'Children that take up the two-year-old places have increased social skills''Children that take up the two-year-old places have increased social skills'

All staff are trained in first aid, safeguarding and mental health support. Several have further training including additional needs, food safety and hygiene, effective learning and teaching.

Owner Claire Hall said: "Beacon Day Nursery provides a natural and calming environment that children can freely explore. We regularly have outings within the local community.

"We find that children that take up the 2-year-old places have increased social skills and improved language. They are more prepared for school and settle much better in different environments.

"They also gain skills such as sharing and playing together, forming friendships and learning life skills which they may not have the opportunity to develop at home."

Find out more about funded places for 2, 3 & 4-year-olds

Check your eligibility for a 2-year-old funded place

For further advice contact our Family Information Service on 0300 123 6712 or email: FIS@lancashire.gov.uk