Not until she was almost 4. It’s not necessary for everyone really depends on your work life situation. My daughter has never been to day care but is just starting preschool.

We were lucky that a new childcare opened just as my oldest was needing to go. The key is to ring and chat and keep ringing.

One year in advance usually

I signed my girl up at about 12 months

I signed up my daughter when she was 2 year and got in two months later. But there were few places that I checked had more than a year waiting period.

We were very lucky and actually knew someone who helped us get in. It still took 4 months though. We tried at 6 months and got a spot when he was 10 months.

i gave up on childcare. it was cheaper and more personal to get a nanny for my 5 kids

I was lucky and got in quite quickly but I am on the waiting list for one 2 years later. It is so ridiculous.