They're run on a not-for-profit basis (so they're not state or private), most often by parent management committees. Normally, they charge fees, although these are kept to a minimum and your child may be entitled to a free part-time place.
An increasing number offer extended or full daycare, but the majority run shorter sessions, ranging from two-and-a-half to four hours.
Preschools are registered by the Government regulatory bodies and are inspected every year. Half the staff must be trained and some may be qualified teachers. They'll offer lots of opportunities for children to learn through play, and most offer a Government-approved early years curriculum.
They also offer the opportunity for you to become involved either as a helper or as a member of the management committee.
Mainly children between two and four years, although a growing number cater for younger children.
In practice, though, the ratios are often much higher as many parents help out, too.
A preschool will be registered and inspected regularly
It will be run by trained staff and may have a qualified teacher
It will be community-based
You don't have to leave your child if you don't want to
Your child will be among children his own age
He'll have access to play and learning opportunities, and usually to a Government-approved early years curriculum
It may offer full-time care
You should be able to become involved yourself
You may need additional childcare as most preschools operate three-hour sessions, with normal school holidays of around 13 weeks a year The premises may be used for other purposes, eg a church hall The staff won't be able to look after your child if he's ill There are some fees involved, although your child may be entitled to a free part-time place
An average of £3.50 for a three-hour session. This varies widely depending on where you live.