These improvements – including in the areas of communication, social skills, confidence, independence and creativity – came second to benefits felt directly by parents, such as being able to work.
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Analysis: ‘free’ childcare expansion enters next phase
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Feature: Sustainable Childcare - key policy developments
Some 56% of parents surveyed for the research, commissioned by the Department for Education’s Childcare Choices campaign, say communication and social skills were the most noticeable skills gained by their child attending a setting and 42% cited being able to work.
Half of parents cited government financial support for childcare costs as crucial when their children first begin childcare.
The favourable research comes as the funded entitlement continues to grow, against a backdrop of sector organisations, including the regulator Ofsted, warning that the expansion is negatively impacting disadvantaged families.
Parents report that formal childcare helps them with juggling family life in many ways, with top advantages including a better work-life balance (34%) and reduced stress levels (29%).
Since September 1 2024, eligible working parents with children aged nine months to three years can access 15 hours childcare over 38 weeks of the year towards early years education.
Dr Amanda Gummer, a psychologist specialising in child development and play who supports the expansion, said: “Formal childcare provides valuable early education opportunities, allowing children to play, learn and grow.
"It supports the development of crucial social skills, preparing children for school and beyond. Balancing family life can be challenging, but childcare support can make a real difference.”
Early education minister Stephen Morgan said: “This government has a clear mission to break down barriers to opportunity for all of our children, which starts with an early years system that gives every child the best start in life.
“This research highlights the significant positive impact that formal childcare offers, and we are committed to working alongside our brilliant early years educators to support families through access to affordable, high-quality provision in their area.”
The government is urging parents to re-check their eligibility and the next application deadline is 31 December.
