Free for 2 (families receiving additional forms of government support)
Some 2-year-olds can get up to 15 hours of free childcare per week for 38 weeks of the year.
Some childcare providers offer fewer hours per week over extra weeks (up to 570 hours).
This is a national childcare scheme and is for 2-year-olds who meet the government criteria. In Kent we call this scheme 'Free for 2'.
Once you have been confirmed eligible for a free 2-year-old place, the funding will remain with your child until they take up their free 3-year old place. Even if your circumstances change.
Find out if your child is eligible
| Child born between | Will become eligible for free early education and childcare |
|---|---|
| 1 January and 31 March | The start of term 5 following their second birthday (after Easter holiday) |
| 1 April and 31 August | The start of term 1 following their second birthday (after summer holiday) |
| 1 September and 31 December | The start of term 3 following their second birthday (after Christmas/New Year holiday) |
Apply
You can apply for 'Free for 2' when your child reaches 1 year and 10 months. Don't apply before then.
You cannot get free childcare until after your child turns two. Even if you apply and get a voucher.
You will need an email address to create an account.
If you think you meet the government criteria for 2-year-old funding, complete an application below.
Application support
If you need help, use our guidance for support using the application system (PDF, 829.8 KB).
If you are a non-UK citizen who cannot claim benefits and do not have a National Insurance (NI) or National Asylum Support Service (NASS), email miearlyyears@kent.gov.uk for help.
If you can’t apply online
- visit your local Family Hub
- ask your childcare provider to help you apply. They must be registered with us and Ofsted. If you're not sure, see our list of all providers who offer funding, ask them directly or call us on 03000 41 23 23.
Do not apply more than once as this can delay the checking process.
Using your free childcare for 2-year-olds funding
For more information on eligibility and using your free childcare for 2-year-olds, read our guide for parents.
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