Pronunciation: [kɹˈɛʃ] (IPA) 
The word "creche" refers to a daycare or nursery for young children. Its phonetic transcription is /krɛʃ/ which can be broken down to "k" sound at the beginning, followed by "r" and "ɛ" which is pronounced as "eh" in "get" and "sh" at the end. The word has French origins and has been used in English since the 19th century. Its spelling is often confused with "crèche" which is a term for a nativity scene.
A creche refers to a facility or establishment dedicated to the care and supervision of young children during the day, typically while their parents are at work. This term, often used in British English, is also known as a nursery or day care center in other regions. Creches are designed to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for children, facilitating their early development and overall well-being.
A creche typically accommodates children ranging from a few months old to around four years of age. These institutions are staffed with trained and qualified professionals who oversee the children, ensuring their safety and offering educational activities and play opportunities. Creches usually offer a range of services, including infant care, feeding, diaper changing, and age-appropriate learning and socialization activities. Some creches may also provide additional programs such as preschool education or after-school care for older children.
The primary goal of a creche is to create an enriching environment that promotes early childhood development, encourages learning, and fosters social interaction. Often situated within a secure and child-friendly premises, creches include various facilities and resources to support different areas of child development, such as play areas, educational toys, art supplies, and outdoor spaces. Additionally, creches usually follow specific health and safety regulations, including staff-to-child ratios, sanitation procedures, and emergency protocols.
Parents often seek out creches to ensure their children receive appropriate care and supervision during their absence, allowing them to balance work commitments while knowing their child's wellbeing is being taken care of.
A day-nursery.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "creche" has its origins in the Old French word "crèche", which means "manger" or "crib". It ultimately derives from the Medieval Latin word "cripia", "crippa", or "criba", which refers to a feeding trough or crib. This Latin term was taken from the Latin verb "crēscere", meaning "to grow". The word "creche" came into English usage in the 19th century to denote a representation of the nativity scene, specifically the physical setting of Christ's birth in a stable or crib. Over time, the term also came to be used for childcare facilities or nurseries, possibly due to the connection between infants in a crib and the care provided in a childcare setting.
