We share top tips for surviving the shocking costs of childcare — plus find out high street deals from Sun Savers

BEING a working parent is anything but child’s play.

A new report from the Trades Union Congress (TUC) reveals the cost of childcare has risen four times faster than wages since 2008.

And in areas including London and the East Midlands, prices have soared SEVEN times quicker.

Putting a tot into full-time nursery will now set you back an average of £222 per week. And with 70 per cent of mums now working, high childcare costs are something most families face.

Cathy Ranson, from parenting site , says: “The cost of living means most families now need two wages coming in — and if you’re a lone parent you probably have no choice but to work, too.

“It is expensive, but you do have some options so research to find which is best for you and your child.”

Here we’ve teamed up with Cathy to bring you ten top ways to cut the cost of your childcare.

1. Check out There’s a clever calculator where you can put in information about your family and see what options and benefits are available to you from the Government. Register and you’ll get email updates if they find a better option for you.
2. Does your current childcare provider offer meals, milk and nappies as part of the fee? It may be more cost-effective to provide your own.
3. Ask if your or your partner’s employer offer a tax-free childcare voucher scheme. If your childcare provider does not take those particular vouchers, ask them to consider doing so as adding another scheme is often simple.
4. Have you got a good friend with little ones who might be interested in a swapping arrangement where you look after their children part of the time and they looks after yours?
5. Is there a grandparent or other family member who might be able to help out some of the time? Just make sure that you discuss what is and is not acceptable when it comes to any treats and routines.
6. Can you get free childcare from a friend or family member but not at the times you need? Talk to your employer about changing your hours. And see if your partner can consider flexible working, too.
7. For occasional childcare, a babysitting circle — where you swap babysitting credits between you — can be a good option. The bigger the group, the better the chances of someone being able to help out.
8. When you are researching childcare options don’t rule anything out. A nanny or au pair may seem expensive but could actually work out cheaper than a nursery if you have lots of kids. You could also look into nanny-shares.
9. Childcare can be a real struggle during the holidays but many local councils run good-value schemes. You do need to book fast as they fill up as soon as they are announced.
10. Consider schools’ wrap-around childcare schemes. Your child will be with their friends and they may be cheaper than other options.