It all depends on how much value you put on childcare. My wife and I childmind and charge £30 per day. We were graded outstanding on our last ofsted inspection. We attend numerous training courses (all in our own time) have a mountain of paperwork to complete, provide early years funded education to the same or in some cases a higher standard than nurserys. There are providers out there who are cheap, they are cheap for a reason. Just have a think what you are paid per day and if it is more than your childcare per day, ask yourself if your contribution to society you make with your job is more important than giving a child the best start in life that you can. I am not saying that we are better than you, just that we are in a position to help educate the next generation. Parents have to make a lifestyle choice, it’s tough, 2 wages and childcare or 1 wage and less treats.