PARENTS across Thurrock are being urged to check whether they are eligible for free childcare on offer to two-year-olds in the borough.

The scheme, funded by the government, provides eligible toddlers with a free pre-school, nursery or child-minder place for up to 15 hours a week during term time.

Two-year-olds are eligible from the beginning of the school term, after their second birthday and children who were two before August 31 could qualify for a free childcare place from this month.

Families are eligible if they earn £16,190 or less a year or if they receive Universal Credit, Income Support, or Income-based Jobseekers Allowance.

One parent already benefiting from the scheme is Maria Wellman and she explains how her son has grown in confidence since he has started going to a child-minder for 15 hours a week as a part of the scheme.

Speaking at Chris and Jenni childminding services in Chafford Hundred, she said: “‘When Max first started I’d have to stay here for a while to settle him, but now it’s ‘see you mummy, I’ll shut the door now’.

“I was happy to discover child-minders were included within the scheme. Sending Max here is like he’s going to an aunt’s house. He is so comfortable. He has really settled in well here and he really enjoys it.”

She added: “I believe there are a lot of benefits for Max, to start with there is the interaction with other children - he is learning at the same time as playing.

“If he was at home with me, it is only me and him, but here he has the interaction with other children. He is a part of the ‘three musketeers’ as there are two other boys here who are about the same age.

“Here I am able to take full advantage of the 15 hours, but I split them up over three days. I believe that Max benefits from being here over that time. The longer he’s here the more comfortable and settled he is.

“When I feel completely confident that he is settled I hope to get myself a part-time job.”

Maria said: “Being here is also helps to prepare him for when he has to start school. It provides a separation from me, so when it is time for Max to go to school he understands that he will be separated from me.

“I would definitely recommend the scheme to other parents.”

Carmel Littleton, Director of Children’s Services: “This is a great opportunity for families on low incomes - not only does the child benefit from interacting with other children and learning through play, it frees up time for parents and carers, giving them the opportunity to work or study.

“Families who believe they may qualify for the scheme should contact the council as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss out.”

For more information on the two-year old entitlement scheme visit WWW.thurrock.gov.uk/childcare