New data from baby registry site MyCrib reveals that UK parents-to-be are now building baby wishlists worth an average of £800, with 22 items spanning more than 10 brands. And while the pram might be the most expensive thing on your list, it’s not the item most parents are asking for.

The latest data – based on a full year of real baby wishlist activity – reveals a shift in priorities. Parents are increasingly choosing practical, everyday heroes over high-end gear, with affordable, functional products taking centre stage.

From clever sleep solutions to compact healthcare kits, the most-added wishlist items of 2025 give a real glimpse into what families value most as they prepare for a new arrival.

Whether you're still browsing or deep into second-trimester prep, these are the standout products parents are turning to – and they might just help you shape your own wishlist with more confidence.

Top 10 baby products UK parents are adding to their wishlists

1. Angelcare Baby Bath

This baby bath is ideal for your newborn. Made of soft TPE material that warms to the water temperature, and including a water level indicator for safety and non-slip body rest with groin support, it will keep your baby comfortable and safe from slipping.

Read more on MyCrib.

2. Tommee Tippee Healthcare Kit

This handy healthcare kit has essential grooming and healthcare items for babies including a digital oral thermometer, nasal aspirator, baby nail scissors and more. It's compact and easy to carry during travel and completely designed with baby's safety and comfort in mind.

Read more on MyCrib.

3. Mamas & Papas Sit & Play Baby Floor Seat

This simple-design Sit & Play Baby Floor Seat is made with super soft fur fabrics, has a detachable play tray with interactive features, and includes a cute penguin character toy.

Read more on MyCrib.

4. Love To Dream Swaddle Up

This swaddle is sweet, stylish and brilliant at aiding your child's natural sleep. It has a certified 'hip healthy' design that allows your child to maintain the recommended flexion of their hips and legs. Plus, there is just a single layer of breathable fabric to prevent overheating and a convenient double zip for easy nappy changes.

Read more on MyCrib.

5. Tommee Tippee GroEgg2 Digital Room Thermometer

The Tommee Tippee GroEgg2 Digital Room Thermometer is great for its innovative design and practical features. The egg comes with a colour-changing system to indicate room temperature as well as a permanently-lit LED readout with 3 adjustable nightlight levels. The egg has a soft feel thanks to its silicone dome and a fresh, modern look suitable for any nursery.

Read more on MyCrib.

6. Rockit rechargeable baby pram rocker

This fun rocket-shaped pram rocker fits on all makes of strollers and prams. Simply attach it to your child's stroller, and a gentle 60-minute rocking cycle will begin. You can customise the speed, and the quiet motor means your little one will go undisturbed.

Read more on MyCrib.

7. Tommee Tippee Newborn Anti-Colic Baby Bottle Starter Kit

This anti-colic starter kit features 2x 150ml and 2x 260ml Advanced Anti-Colic bottles with slow flow teats, 2x 0-6m night-time soothers and 1x bottle and teat brush. The bottles come with a breast-like shape for a natural latch and guaranteed acceptance, plus they're BPA and phthalate free.

Read more on MyCrib.

8. Tommee Tippee Twist and Click Advanced Nappy Bin Starter Set

Want an easy and hygienic way to dispose of soiled nappies? This Tommee Tippee bin set has a simple twist-and-click system to lock in odours and keep your nursery smelling fresh.

Read more on MyCrib.

9. Sweet Dreamers, Ewan Deluxe with Shush

This cuddly friend emits 10 sleep-inducing sounds to mimic the comforting noise of the womb, including a gentle shushing, white noise and heartbeats. It can also glow a soft red to help produce melatonin, plus it can be easily attached to a crib or stroller for convenience.

Read more on MyCrib.

10. Nuby Penguin-shaped baby bath Digital thermometer

This 2-in-1 thermometer is suitable from birth and works both in the bathroom and your future child's bedroom. The LCD screen makes the numbers easy to read, and the light flashes red when the water is too hot, so keeping an eye on the bathwater has never been easier!

Read more on MyCrib.

What baby shower products are trending right now?

Alongside the most-added items, MyCrib has revealed the current trending products for parents making their baby wish lists in 2025.

• Dunelm 13l ribbed storage box, £3-£6
• BabyBjörn Baby Bouncer Bliss, £209.90 £177.99
• Avery Row Nappy Caddy, £44
• Boots Baby fragranced nappy bags, 85p
• Milton Sterilising Tablets, £5.79
• Mothercare Elephant Cuddle and Dry Hooded Towels, £14
• Mamas & Papas Teddy Bear Bibs, £13 £9.75
• Anti-Allergy Quilted Cotbed Mattress Protector, £25 £18.75
• Moby 3 Stage Baby Bath, £59.99 £52
• Stokke Tripp Trapp Highchair, £268 £190
• Liewood Ellis Sippy Cup, £17 £11.05

Drawn from a year’s worth of real MyCrib registry data, these trending wish list favourites show that parents in 2025 are prioritising value, practicality and comfort over high-end gear.

Whether you're prepping for your own baby shower or helping a friend, this data-led list offers a smart and realistic starting point. Looking to create your baby registry? Start your list on MyCrib for free.

Read more: 

• What is a baby registry?
• Best thermometers for babies and children in 2025
• Best travel cots 2025
• Best first pedal bikes
• Viral hack actually help babies sleep

While there's no doubt baby showers are a great way of celebrating your upcoming newborn with the ones you love, not all of us enjoy standing under a spotlight. Plus, what if it's your second baby and you don't want to do that planning all over again?

That's where baby sprinkles come in. These smaller, more intimate affairs are bound to suit those who just want a bit of time with close family and friends before the baby comes. They don't put as much of an emphasis on games, and gifts are far less essential,  although still encouraged!

Below, we've put together a guide to what you can expect from a baby sprinkle, as well as answering your questions, like what to ask for and who to invite.

To help us help you, we've also partnered with baby registry platform MyCrib. This site is a great, fuss-free way of assembling your dream wish list before sending it out to family and friends.

You can pull items from the platform's handy curated recommendations, or paste URLs from any external site, which means there really is no limit to what you can get for your new baby.

For more details, check out our guide to what a baby registry is, plus the best baby shower gifts.

• What is a baby sprinkle? 
• What is the difference between a baby sprinkle and a baby shower? 
• Who should you invite to a baby sprinkle? 
• What should a baby sprinkle wish list look like? 

What is a baby sprinkle? 

A baby sprinkle is a much smaller, more intimate version of a baby shower, often designed for the arrival of a second (or third, or fourth...) baby.

For parents who like less of a fuss, or consider themselves seasoned professionals, a sprinkle is far more relaxed and quiet, relying less on games and structure and more on gentle, supportive vibes. 

A sprinkle usually takes place around the third trimester, and there's also a much smaller emphasis on gifts. Like the name suggests, first-time parents are "showered" with presents like buggies and highchairs, but for any further additions to your brood, you likely already have the essentials, so you're merely "sprinkled" with them.

For a baby sprinkle, you can use MyCrib to find more cute and aesthetic pieces, like an updated wardrobe, new toys or nursery decorations, and assemble them into a registry.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

What is the difference between a baby sprinkle and a baby shower? 

Baby Shower

A baby shower is often a more formal gathering. It features a larger guest list, a theme with decorations, and a range of games and quizzes. Parents-to-be also require a longer wish list with more big-ticket items like prams, cribs and car seats.

Baby Sprinkle 

A baby sprinkle is a small, relaxed gathering with a reduced guest list. You can still play games and quizzes, but overall, it has a gentler feel with plenty of chit chat. Gifts also tend to be smaller and less expensive, like baby clothes and cuddly toys.

Who should you invite to a baby sprinkle? 

The guest list is entirely up to you, but most tend to invite a smaller crowd to a baby sprinkle, so close friends and immediate family. If you're looking for numbers, we'd say around 5-15.

The important thing is that once you have your guest list, you can send them your MyCrib registry by simply popping the link in a group chat or email chain.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

What should a baby sprinkle wish list look like? 

As we've said, a baby sprinkle wish list is normally smaller and full of nice-to-have items rather than the essentials. The good thing about MyCrib is you can pull in items from any third-party site like Zara, H&M and John Lewis.

Here's an idea of what you could list for a baby shower vs a baby sprinkle, or you can take a look at MyCrib's baby sprinkle example list.

Baby Shower Wish List

• Airo Pushchair
• Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller
• Snüz SnüzPod 4 Bedside Crib
• Mamas & Papas Born to be Wild Cot Mobile
• Mamas & Papas Turtle Bibs
• Nanobebe Baby Soothers 0-3 Month
• Comfy Cubs Muslin Cloths
• Mamas & Papas Snax Highchair
• Tommee Tippee Natural Start Baby Bottle Newborn Starter Kit

Baby Sprinkle Wish List

• John Lewis Organic Cotton Bodysuits
• Truly Baby Faux Fur Lined Snowsuit
• Olli Ella Nyla Baby Changing Basket
• SnüzCloud Sleep Aid
• H&M Teddy storage basket
• H&M Round Lion rug

Need more inspiration? MyCrib shows you what expecting parents are adding to their wishlists. See the trending product here.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

Read more:

• Best thermometers for babies and children in 2025
• Best travel cots 2025
• Best first pedal bikes

Just like any party, a theme can help give you direction for everything from decorations to games and gifts.

When it comes to baby shower planning, MyCrib makes for a fantastic companion. The modern baby registry that makes gift-giving easier, more personal, and completely stress-free, helping families avoid duplicates, share their essentials effortlessly, and get exactly what they need – from practical must-haves to meaningful extras.

Beyond just building a baby registry, you can also send out invites to the baby shower using your MyCrib account, making the planning process that bit easier. They also have a range of guides available on their website to give you even more inspiration for your baby shower, as well as a range of great baby shower print-out games you can use to get started as well as an article dedicated to the best baby shower games.

For more tips and ideas, check out our guide on how to throw a baby shower, where we break down everything you'll need to consider. You can also find our guide to the best baby shower gifts for mum and baby in 2025 if you're looking for ideas for presents.

Most popular baby shower themes in 2025

1. Neutral colours

If you've seen the parenting section of any department store over the past few years or scrolled through #parenting on TikTok, you'll know that neutral colours are all the rage. Whether that's 'champagne' or 'taupe', these neutral, warm tones are everywhere, and it's easy to see why. There's a minimalist elegance to the neutral colour palette that will lend your baby shower a sense of simple sophistication. It's also gender neutral, making it an ideal pick if the mum-to-be doesn't yet know the gender of their baby.

What decorations do you need?

Classic decorations like balloons, bunting and simple table dressing are great picks for an elegant neutral baby shower. Look for warmer whites, off-whites, browns and greens and then use an accent colour like gold to add an extra pop of elegance to proceedings.

2. Maximalist colours

On the other end of the colour spectrum is the maximalist style, which embraces bright colours and elaborate displays. Inspired by the 'dopamine dressing' trend that swept TikTok, this theme is ideal if you're looking to wow the mum-to-be with something truly special. Ideal for summer or for maximalist mums, here understated elegance gives way to bright pops of colour that draw the eye, putting a smile on your face in the process.

What decorations do you need?

This is an ideal theme for creatives as it involves matching various bright colours to create a harmonious sense of over-the-top fun. Lean on floral displays here by bringing in a florist to craft some bright centrepieces and photo-ops that'll help elevate the vibe for all your guests.

3. Classic Storybook Theme

If you're looking for a timeless, easy and nostalgic baby shower theme, then look no further than the classic storybook theme. Bring children's books to life with your decorations, including books and vintage paper, to add that extra sense of storybook magic to the experience.

Start by selecting the books you want to spotlight, for example, a 'Winnie the Pooh' theme could include lots of bright yellows, reds and, of course, tons of honey-flavoured snacks. Incorporating reading time into the baby shower could be a really nice way to bring the magic of storytelling to life, especially if your guests will be bringing children.

What decorations do you need?

Books, books and more books. This could be a great opportunity to get your guests to chip in by bringing along their favourite storybooks from their childhood. You can use book covers for the stories you choose to lead the colour scheme, and you could even try recreating the cover as a cake. Balloon arrangements are also a great shout here. Pull the colours out of the books you've chosen to create a simple and show-stopping decoration that can instantly transform and fill a space.

4. Woodland Wonder

Is the mum-to-be a big fan of the outdoors? Or maybe you're looking for a nice, cute and cosy theme for an autumn baby shower. Either way, a woodland theme is a great, versatile pick for a baby shower, working for both a boy or a girl.

Greens, browns and rustic elements are your friend here. Look to the autumn season and classic woodland animals like foxes, hedgehogs and rabbits for inspiration. A crafting station makes for a great activity at a woodland-themed baby shower (or any baby shower, really), especially if you've got children coming along.

What decorations do you need?

Faux leaves are a great way to add texture to a space without breaking the bank, especially as they come in a range of warm, autumnal colours. You might also want to look at dried flowers as well as wood, gold and copper accents for things like invitations, picture frames and themed signage.

5. Afternoon Tea

You could take the tea party theme in several directions. You could go down the Alice in Wonderland route and throw a Mad Hatter's tea party. You could also go for a vintage Bridgerton vibe complete with cups and saucers, beautiful floral centrepieces and string quartet covers of Taylor Swift.

Whatever approach you take, a classic tea party theme is always a guaranteed winner. Tea tasting with flavours and varieties from around the world makes for a great activity here, especially if you're holding an alcohol-free baby shower before baby is born.

What decorations do you need?

Fine china, vintage table runners, classic floral bouquets paired with classic scones and finger sandwiches arranged on that cake stand your grandmother has had for decades. Lean into pastel tones for this theme to create a sophisticated and elegant setting.

Read more:

• Best thermometers for babies and children in 2025
• Best travel cots 2025
• Best first pedal bikes

That’s where a baby registry can be a game-changer. It helps you organise what you really need, avoid duplicates, and gently guide friends and family toward gifts you’ll actually use and love.

Do you need a baby registry? Not exactly – but it can make life a whole lot easier. It helps you stay organised, avoid duplicate gifts, and lets friends and family feel confident they’re choosing something you’ll genuinely want and use. Guests love knowing they’re getting it right and you won’t have to worry about returning duplicates or awkwardly accepting yet another nappy caddy.

That’s where MyCrib comes in. It’s a modern baby registry platform designed to do exactly that and more. Built for parents-to-be, it brings together real, parent recommendations, effortless sharing, and features like group gifting and universal product links, so you can add items from anywhere.

Here’s everything you need to know about setting up your baby registry - and why we think MyCrib makes it easier than ever.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

Jump to:

• What is a baby registry? 
• When should I start a baby registry? 
• How to create a baby registry
• What to add to your registry 
• How to share your baby registry 

What is a baby registry? 

A baby registry is a list of items that parents-to-be would like to receive as gifts – much like a wedding registry, but tailored for everything baby. It’s a helpful way to share what you really need with family and friends, and it helps avoid any unwanted double-ups.

Registries can include everything from everyday essentials like nappies and baby grows to bigger investment items like cribs, buggies and monitors.

Baby registries and baby showers go hand in hand. Many parents create their list in time for the shower, giving guests a clear, thoughtful way to choose gifts they know will be genuinely useful and appreciated – whether it’s something essential or a sweet little extra.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

When should I start a baby registry? 

You can start your baby registry whenever it feels right for you. Many parents begin around the 20-week mark, or whenever they have shared their news, as it gives plenty of time to think through what’s needed, plan purchases, and gradually build a list of meaningful gifts for friends and family to choose from.

How to create a baby registry 

There are a few different platforms you can create a baby registry on, the most popular would be Amazon, John Lewis and MyCrib. A dedicated platform like MyCrib is a great option as it’s the only one that’s designed specifically for expecting parents. It offers real tips from other mums and dads, honest product reviews, and a super intuitive setup process.

What to add to your registry 

Not sure what to add to your registry ? MyCrib has a whole section which shows you what other mums and dads have added to their list and loved, you can see that here.

You can also use their interactive checklist to make sure you have exactly what you might need, neatly broken down by room, routine and life stage. If you create an account on MyCrib you’ll also find a range of example registries to inspire you, from minimalist lists to everything-but-the-kitchen-sink wishlists shared by real parents.

Simply create a free account, add product links from your favourite brands or retailers, and customise your list with colours and baby info. Once you're ready, it’s easy to share via a single link with your nearest and dearest.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

How to share your baby registry 

Once your list is ready, sharing it is simple – and it doesn’t need to feel awkward. Many parents pop their registry link into a group chat, email, or include it on a baby shower invitation. You can also ask a close friend or family member to share it for you, especially if you'd rather not send it yourself.

The goal is to make things easier for the people who want to treat you – and having a clear, well-organised list helps them choose something meaningful without the guesswork.

So, if you're waiting for the arrival of your little one with bated breath, why not pass the time and cut down on the buying stress by setting up a baby registry? For all the inspiration and help, head over to MyCrib.

Set up a baby registry with MyCrib

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But how do you explain pregnancy to a toddler? And how can you help them adjust to a new baby?

Peppa Pig’s big news – and why it matters

For over 20 years, Peppa Pig has been a household favourite, and now, the show is taking on a major milestone – pregnancy.

In The Big Announcement, airing on 30 March, Mummy and Daddy Pig share the exciting news with Peppa and George, who react with curiosity and excitement (and a little confusion).

It’s a storyline that many families will relate to. Whether it’s a first-time experience or your child has already been through it with a younger sibling, the arrival of a new baby can bring big emotions.

According to parenting expert Jo Frost, preparation is key. “If both you and your partner are organised and in control, your child will feel a lot happier, calmer, and more secure,” she advises. By making small changes in advance—such as adjusting sleeping arrangements or encouraging independence with tasks like feeding—parents can help their child feel more settled when the baby arrives.

How to tell your child you’re having a baby

If Peppa’s reaction is anything to go by, toddlers don’t always grasp the idea of pregnancy straight away.

Young children may repeat phrases like “there’s a baby in mummy’s tummy” without fully understanding what that means.

Jo Frost suggests introducing the idea early and involving your child in the process.

Rather than one big announcement, drip-feeding information in small, age-appropriate chunks can help little ones process the change.

Handling tricky questions

In The Big Announcement, Peppa asks the inevitable: “How did the baby get in there?” Mummy Pig awkwardly nudges Daddy Pig, who swiftly changes the subject by offering cake.

It’s a relatable moment for parents, but it highlights how natural curiosity about pregnancy can catch us off guard.

The key is to keep explanations simple. As Frost advises, “Small children need straightforward information that’s easy for them to digest.”

If your child is older and asking more detailed questions, you can gently introduce the idea that babies grow from a tiny seed inside mummy’s tummy and need lots of time to get ready before they’re born. Books about new siblings can also help explain the process in a way that feels fun and engaging.

Preparing for big emotions

A new baby can bring excitement, but also jealousy, confusion, and uncertainty. Peppa’s next chapter will explore her feelings about becoming a big sister again – something that many older siblings will relate to.

Frost suggests helping your child build a connection with the baby before birth. “When your bump gets really big, talk to your child about the baby inside and let them rub cream into your tummy and feel the baby kick,” she says. This can help create excitement and positive feelings.

So, how can parents help children adjust?

• Involve them in the journey – Let them feel the baby kicking, help set up the nursery, or choose a toy for the baby.
• Acknowledge their feelings – It’s okay if they feel unsure or even upset. Reassure them that they’re still just as important.
• Maintain routines – With so much change ahead, keeping their daily life stable can help them feel secure.
• Make it playful – Role-playing with dolls, reading stories about siblings, or drawing family pictures can help toddlers express emotions they might not have words for yet.

What Peppa Pig’s new storyline teaches us

Peppa Pig isn’t the first children’s show to tackle pregnancy. Bluey recently introduced Aunt Brandy’s pregnancy, hinting at past struggles with infertility, while Peppa Pig itself has previously shown Mummy Rabbit giving birth. But Mummy Pig’s pregnancy is a major moment – it’s not just a side character’s journey; it’s happening to Peppa’s own family.

By weaving the realities of pregnancy into a beloved series, Peppa Pig is giving parents an easy way to start conversations and help children navigate their own feelings about new siblings. Whether your child is excited, nervous, or completely uninterested for now, they’ll likely see a bit of themselves in Peppa’s journey.

As for the biggest question – will Peppa’s new sibling be a boy or a girl? We’ll have to wait and see. Until then, if your toddler asks how babies are made, you might want to have some cake ready – just like Daddy Pig.

Read more: 

• 134 easy last-minute World Book Day costume ideas for 2025
• The best bedtime stories for kids in 2025
• Firstborn and only children more likely to face anxiety and depression, study finds

With prices continuing to rise, many parents are struggling to keep up. But how does the UK compare to other countries, and what support is available to help families manage these costs?

How much does childcare cost in the UK?

For children under two, the average cost of full-time nursery care is now £305.11 per week, according to a new report from Coram Family and Childcare. Part-time care (25 hours per week) costs an average of £159.61 per week.

These prices have increased significantly in recent years. Part-time care is up 7.7% from £150.89 in 2023, while full-time care has risen by 6.4%. Parents are feeling the strain, with childcare costs often equalling or exceeding mortgage payments.

Why is childcare in the UK so expensive?

One of the key reasons childcare is so costly in the UK is the strict staff-to-child ratios. For children under two, the legal requirement is one carer per three children, meaning nurseries need a high number of staff to operate.

Additionally, while the government provides some funding for free childcare hours, many nurseries argue it doesn’t cover the full cost, forcing them to raise fees to stay open. Rising operational costs, including staff wages and national insurance contributions, have also contributed to increasing fees.

How do UK childcare costs compare internationally?

The UK is one of the most expensive countries for childcare globally. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), it ranks as the third most expensive country for childcare for families earning the average wage, behind only Switzerland and New Zealand.

For lower-income families (earning 67% of the average wage), the UK is the most expensive country for childcare, along with the Czech Republic and Cyprus.

By contrast, many Nordic countries offer significantly more affordable childcare:

• Denmark: Parents pay no more than 30% of the total cost, averaging around £460 per month.
• Norway: Nursery fees are capped at approximately £200 per month.
• Sweden: Childcare costs around £100 per month, and parents receive a monthly government allowance of around £85 to help cover costs.

These lower costs are largely due to greater government subsidies and funding, which help reduce the financial burden on families.

What is being done to reduce childcare costs in the UK?

The UK government has introduced measures to help ease the burden on parents. Since September 2024, working parents of children aged nine months to four years have been eligible for 15 hours of free childcare per week during term time. By September 2025, this will increase to 30 hours per week for eligible families.

A £204 million cash boost for nurseries was also announced in the 2023 spring Budget to increase funding for early years entitlements. However, childcare providers have warned that funding still falls short of covering real costs, meaning prices may continue to rise.

What financial support is available for parents?

Parents in the UK may be able to access financial help through several government schemes, including:

• Tax-Free Childcare: For every £8 parents pay into a childcare account, the government adds £2, up to a maximum of £2,000 per child per year.
• Universal Credit: Eligible families can claim back up to 85% of childcare costs.
• Free early education and childcare: Available for some two-year-olds and all three- and four-year-olds, depending on eligibility.
• Tax Credits: Some families may still be eligible for childcare support under Working Tax Credit (though this is being replaced by Universal Credit).

To check what help you’re entitled to, visit the gov.uk website or contact your local council for more details.

Childcare in the UK remains one of the biggest financial pressures on parents, with costs continuing to rise. While government support is increasing, many families are still struggling to afford full-time care. Looking at countries like Denmark and Sweden, where childcare is significantly more affordable, raises questions about whether the UK could do more to ease the financial strain on parents.

For now, parents should explore all available financial support options to help manage costs.

Read more: 

• Parents risk losing free childcare as nursery closures loom
• Ministers scrap ‘free childcare’ label as frustration grows over soaring nursery fees
• Government to address nursery staff shortages before expanding childcare services

Yet despite its benefits, an estimated 800,000 eligible families are not claiming the support they’re entitled to, according to financial expert Martin Lewis.

What is Tax-Free Childcare?

Tax-Free Childcare is a government initiative designed to ease the financial burden of childcare for working families. For every £8 you pay into a designated childcare account, the government adds £2, up to a maximum of £500 per quarter per child.

The scheme can be used to cover childcare expenses such as nurseries, childminders, after-school clubs, and some holiday camps.

“This isn’t about tax—it’s essentially a government top-up to help with childcare costs,” explains Martin Lewis, founder of Money Saving Expert. “It’s a lifeline for working parents, but many are unaware or confused by the scheme’s misleading name.”

Who is eligible?

To qualify for Tax-Free Childcare, parents must meet certain criteria:

• Employment:
  • Both parents (or the sole parent in single-parent households) must be working.
  • Self-employed parents are also eligible.
• Income:
  • Each parent must earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at National Minimum Wage.
  • Neither parent can have an adjusted net income over £100,000 per year.
• Child’s age:
  • The child must be 11 or under (or 17 if they have a disability).

Parents already claiming Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, Childcare Vouchers, or similar benefits are not eligible for Tax-Free Childcare.

Why the urgency?

The application deadline for accessing Tax-Free Childcare for the next school term is fast approaching. Families must apply and set up their childcare accounts by 31 December to avoid missing out on savings.

Additionally, eligibility must be reconfirmed every three months. This is a quick process, but it’s essential to maintain access to the government top-up.

How to claim Tax-Free Childcare

To start benefiting from Tax-Free Childcare, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Childcare Choices website and apply through your Government Gateway account.
2. Once approved, set up an online childcare account.
3. Deposit funds for childcare expenses—every £8 you pay in is boosted by £2 from the government.

Parents can also use the website to check their eligibility if they’re unsure about qualifying criteria.

Why aren’t families claiming?

The scheme’s confusing name is often cited as a barrier to uptake. Martin Lewis has described “Tax-Free Childcare” as “appallingly named,” suggesting that a clearer title such as “Childcare Savings Top-Up” would help parents understand the benefit.

In addition, the need for quarterly reconfirmation and misunderstandings about income thresholds or employment status mean some eligible families don’t apply.

The cost of missing out

Childcare is one of the largest expenses for working parents in the UK, and this scheme offers significant financial relief. By claiming the maximum £2,000 per child, families can offset a large portion of these costs.

“Failing to claim is like turning down free money,” says Lewis. “With budgets tighter than ever, this support can make a real difference to family finances.”

Act now to secure your savings

The deadline for applying to benefit from Tax-Free Childcare for the next term is looming. Don’t delay—visit Childcare Choices to apply or confirm your eligibility today.

By taking action now, families can ensure they don’t miss out on vital financial support designed to ease the cost of childcare.

Read more:

• Parents risk losing free childcare as nursery closures loom
• Ministers scrap ‘free childcare’ label as frustration grows over soaring nursery fees
• Two-tier childcare system ‘stigmatising’ disadvantaged families, new report reveals

The report, compiled by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and Save the Children, raises alarm bells about the future of childcare provision, with rural and deprived areas bearing the brunt.

The data highlighted a troubling trend: rural areas have 31% fewer childcare places and 29% fewer Ofsted-rated "good" options compared to cities and town centres.

Families living in deprived areas are also struggling, with 32% fewer childcare places per child and 25% fewer rated as "good" compared to those in wealthier areas.

The situation is particularly dire in Walsall, West Midlands, which the report identifies as the local authority with the lowest childcare provision in England. Shockingly, three in four children in Walsall have poor access to childcare services.

The IPPR report reveals a stark divide in the use of formal childcare between income groups. While 73% of the highest-earning households rely on formal childcare, only a third of the poorest families do so. The gap extends to professions too: more than two-thirds of parents in professional jobs, such as doctors and architects, use formal childcare, compared to less than half of parents in lower-paid roles, such as cleaners and care workers.

A key factor driving the crisis is the rapid decline in the number of childminders. According to the IPPR, the profession is losing around 3,000 childminders annually. At this rate, there could be none left by 2033.

Childminders play a crucial role, particularly for children under three, alongside nurseries. However, challenges like low pay, high stress, and a lack of support are causing many to leave the profession.

Additionally, the number of children attending primary school nurseries has dropped significantly—by the equivalent of 42,000 children—since 2015/16.

This year, the UK Government expanded free childcare to include 15 hours a week for working parents of children aged nine months and older. While the move has been welcomed, experts argue it’s not enough to solve the systemic issues.

Ruth Talbot, policy and advocacy adviser at Save the Children UK, stresses that while the changes are a step in the right direction, “major reforms are still needed to fix the system.”

She highlights the need for better support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), suggesting that the standard two-year-old health checks could unlock essential funding. Talbot also proposes creating local not-for-profit childcare trusts to prioritise children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Jodie Reed, associate fellow at the IPPR, suggests the UK has an opportunity to overhaul its childcare model, making it more like the public-led school system.

“National and local governments should play a much more proactive role in addressing problems in the market,” Reed says. “We need a real childcare guarantee for every child.”

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• Parents risk losing free childcare as nursery closures loom
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Rising costs, including tax and wage increases announced in the recent Budget, are leaving providers unable to cover their expenses. This funding gap could force closures, particularly in deprived areas, and hinder efforts to ensure more children are “school ready.”

Currently, parents of children aged nine months to two years can access 15 hours of funded childcare per week, while those with children aged three to four years are entitled to 30 hours. However, plans to extend this provision to 30 hours for all children aged nine months to four years from September 2025 are in jeopardy.

Early years providers have raised alarms about funding levels failing to account for increased costs, including a rise in National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and minimum wages. Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance, warned:

Nurseries in less affluent areas, which often rely more heavily on Government funding, are particularly vulnerable. Nicci Knight, operations director at Zizus Day Care in Middlesbrough, highlighted that her nursery predominantly serves families claiming Government-funded hours. She said the expected rise in NICs and wages would add £38,000 to their annual costs:

This concern echoes across the sector, with many nurseries forced to raise fees for non-funded hours by up to 20%. Yet, these increases may not be enough to offset the financial strain, potentially leading to closures that disproportionately affect low-income families.

For parents, the knock-on effects could be significant. If nurseries close, the availability of funded hours could shrink, and families requiring more than the allocated hours may face higher childcare costs. Some parents may be left with no choice but to reduce working hours or leave employment altogether.

A recent report by Ofsted revealed that over 1,000 early years providers closed in the past year. With further closures anticipated, parents might struggle to find childcare spaces in their local areas.

The Government has promised to align funding increases with inflation, wages, and the minimum wage rise. However, the Early Years Alliance has pointed out that no provision has been made to cover the NIC rise from April 2024.

Ministers are set to meet with childcare sector representatives this week, ahead of the Prime Minister’s announcement of the school readiness pledge. However, experts caution that without immediate action to address the funding gap, these ambitious goals may falter.

Mr Leitch stressed: “The Government is planning its biggest expansion programme in childcare history, yet there’s no strategy to deal with the financial impact on providers. We need urgent intervention.”

With uncertainty surrounding the availability of funded childcare, parents may want to:

• Research alternative childcare options: Look into local childminders or community care providers.
• Stay informed: Follow updates from nursery providers and the Early Years Alliance.
• Advocate for change: Engage with local MPs to highlight the importance of sufficient nursery funding.

As families await clarity, the future of free childcare hangs in the balance. Without decisive action, nurseries fear that closures will leave parents and children struggling to access the care they need.

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• Ministers scrap ‘free childcare’ label as frustration grows over soaring nursery fees
• Government to address nursery staff shortages before expanding childcare services
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In the 2023–24 tax year, only 10,600 new fathers opted for shared parental leave, compared with 623,100 women who took paid maternity leave, according to data obtained by The Dad Shift via freedom of information (FOI) requests.

The policy allows parents to divide up to 37 weeks of paid leave and 50 weeks of leave between them. However, critics argue its poor uptake reflects deep flaws in the system.

The Dad Shift’s research highlights stark inequalities in how shared parental leave is used. Sixty per cent of claims come from the top 20% of earners, while the bottom half of earners account for just 5% of claims. Co-founder Alex Lloyd Hunter described the system as "not just broken but elitist too." Ever heard of gentle parenting? What are the pros and cons, and how do you put it into practice? Discover our
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Currently, fathers receive a statutory payment of just £184.30 per week, making shared parental leave financially unviable for many families.

Campaigners and MPs are urging reform to make parental leave more accessible and equitable. Labour MP Kirith Entwistle shared her experience of the importance of having her husband at home when their child was born.

Labour has proposed making paternity leave and unpaid parental leave a “day one” entitlement for all employees, removing the current requirement of six months’ employment.

A spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade has said: “We will also carry out a review of wider statutory parental leave to ensure it offers the best possible support to working families and boost economic growth.”

Data also revealed significant regional disparities in government spending on shared parental leave payments. In London, £40.8 million was spent on the scheme since its rollout in 2014—more than the total spent in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and several regions of England combined.

This disparity further underscores the scheme’s failure to serve lower-income families, who are disproportionately represented in areas outside the capital.

Campaigners argue that the UK lags behind other European countries in offering equitable parental leave. Alex Lloyd Hunter described the UK’s statutory paternity leave as “the worst in Europe,” adding, “Just two weeks on less than half the minimum wage.”

Shared parental leave was intended to address this gap but has fallen short due to its complexity and inadequate financial support.

With growing pressure from campaigners and Labour MPs, change could be on the horizon. Thirty MPs recently signed a letter urging the Prime Minister to introduce reforms, including longer paid leave for fathers and more flexible parental leave options.

However, without substantial financial backing and simplification of the process, shared parental leave may remain an unattainable option for many families.

As Alex Lloyd Hunter concludes: “British families and fathers deserve better.”

Read more: 

• New study reveals which UK companies offer the best parental leave
• How to manage your finances for maternity leave: 4 tips from a money expert
• Schools enhance maternity pay to keep female teachers in the classroom