evidence: Childcare can be expensive but there is help available towards the costs of childcare. This guide covers the various support options that may be available to you. For information about the additional support available if your child has a special educational need or disability, check our 'Guide to childcare for children with special educational needs and disabilities in England'. [...] In England, Scotland and Wales you will usually become eligible in the term after your child’s birthday. For example, if your child turns three on 13 October, you will be able to get free childcare from January. In Northern Ireland, you will be eligible the year before your child enters Primary One.