Giving all children the best start in life, regardless of their background.
This Government is securing Britain’s future through the Plan for Change. Giving all children the best start in life is our commitment to breaking down barriers to opportunity and getting 75% of children ready for school by 2028.
Children’s earliest years are crucial to their development and their life chances. Currently only 67.2% of children in England reach a good level of development by age five, falling to just 51.6% of disadvantaged children. By the time they start school, children eligible for Free School Meals are already five months behind their peers. Tackling these gaps early, and ensuring more children are ready to start school, is the foundation for future success.
Giving every child the best start in life
Our Best Start in Life strategy aims to:
- Improve support for families from pregnancy through age five, so parents and children get the help they need early on.
- Make childcare and early education easier to find and more affordable for families.
- Make sure children get high-quality care and learning in nurseries, with childminders, and in reception classes
Other support for families
A new Parent Hub bringing together trusted advice and helpful support for parents will come in autumn 2025. There is already a wide range of available resources for parents to access:
Childcare costs
Balancing work, family, and childcare can be tough – especially on a budget. Childcare support can help you manage costs and give your child a great start.
Visit Childcare Choices to find out more and check your eligibility.
Get ready for school
The support you give at home, alongside the experiences children have in childcare, can both make a big difference in helping them get ready for school.
Visit the StartingReception.co.uk website for friendly, flexible ideas to help you support your child as they grow, play, and explore new skills, including tailored support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Pregnancy, babies and young children
You can find advice and guidance to support you and your child during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood through Start for Life.
General support
Find out if you’re eligible for any other benefits and financial support.
See what other help is available for households to help with the cost of living.
