When should I start to look for childcare?

There will probably be lots of questions going through your mind when you discover that you are pregnant. You may want to spend time thinking about all the issues around being a working parent before you move onto your search for childcare. But even if you haven't made any firm decisions about the future, you can always start making general enquiries about the childcare choices that you have.

How do I set about it?

The first thing you should do is to look at the options available to you in your area. You can't really start doing this type of research too early. It will help in your final decision if you start to build an accurate picture of local provision. You can do this in a number of ways, for example:

• By talking to other parents and parents-to-be, who will give you first-hand information. Once pregnant, you should start making friends and contacts with other people in the same situation as you. Antenatal classes, parent craft classes and antenatal check-ups are all places where you can get to know other parents-to-be and share tips.

• You can also build up your dossier of information by gathering leaflets and brochures about local daycares centres or babysitters and other options in your area.

Gathering this information will give you a broad picture of price differences and availability. Your options will start to appear.

It is important to start thinking about childcare quite early (certainly once into your second trimester of pregnancy), because the best childcare choices are often snapped up very quickly.

Will I have to make a fast decision?

In urban areas, the combination of population density and a lack of proven quality childcare may mean you need to reserve your place as soon as you have made a decision. If you are looking for a nanny, it may be hard to find someone who is prepared to commit themselves to a job before handing in their notice to their current employer (usually a month beforehand). If you are looking at babysitters, you may find that the same principles apply. Many childminders are unwilling to commit themselves too far in advance.

If you are thinking of hiring a live-in maid to look after your baby, it will also take time to find the right recruitment agency and the right candidate. After that, it may take between two and six months to complete the candidate's paperwork and training.

How can I avoid feeling pressurised?

Start searching with plenty of time to spare. Don't expect to find someone immediately - in fact, it's probably a good idea to see a number of different people and places before making any decision, so you get an idea of the variety in quality, price and style. Allow a few weeks to familiarise yourself with the nature of childcare and the option you prefer.

Should I consider compromising?

Finding childcare that is right for you is important for your peace of mind, but it isn't always easy to find. Your first choice may be out of your reach financially. Don't despair, but do be prepared to compromise in some, if not all, respects. You may have your heart set on a babysitter, only to be disappointed in the quality of the local provision. Consider alternatives and try to keep an open mind. The only thing you should not compromise on is your certainty that your child will be cared for by the right person or people.

Giving yourself a wide time margin allows you to do this comfortably.