Creche: meaning, definitions and examples

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creche

 

[kreɪʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

childcare facility

A creche is a place where young children are cared for during the day while their parents are at work or otherwise occupied. It is often used for infants and toddlers, providing an environment that is safe and nurturing. Creches may offer structured activities to promote early childhood development and can vary in size, facilities, and staff qualifications. They can also be affiliated with schools or community centers.

Synonyms

childcare center, daycare, nursery.

Examples of usage

  • She took her baby to the local creche.
  • The creche provides a play area for toddlers.
  • He worked at a creche during the summer.
  • Parents trust the creche to look after their children.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'creche' comes from the French language, meaning 'crib' or 'manger', indicating a place where babies are cared for.
  • Initially, the term was associated with places where infants were laid down to sleep, evolving into modern childcare facilities.
  • In many parts of Europe, the term is closely linked to early childhood education, with roots in educational reforms of the 19th century.

Cultural Significance

  • In France, creches play an essential role in early childhood development, offering structured programs to nurture social and emotional skills.
  • The concept of creches has influenced childcare systems worldwide, suggesting the importance of early education in different cultures.
  • Many countries have adopted creches as a standard practice, indicating a growing recognition of the educational needs of toddlers and infants.

Education

  • Creches offer foundational learning experiences, focusing on language development and social interaction through play.
  • Educational approaches in creches often align with developmental theories, emphasizing the value of experiential learning among young children.
  • The environment in creches is designed to stimulate curiosity, creativity, and cognitive skills, preparing kids for preschool.

Health and Psychology

  • Quality childcare in creches has been linked to positive developmental outcomes, such as improved emotional regulation and social skills.
  • Research indicates that children attending creches may benefit from diversity in their peer interactions, enhancing their social competencies.
  • Attachment theory suggests that well-structured creche settings can help children build secure attachments, fostering resilience and trust.

Pop Culture

  • Creches have been depicted in various films and books, often illustrating the early childhood experiences of characters.
  • In some countries, creches are celebrated for their role in supporting working families, sometimes highlighted in cultural discussions about women's rights.
  • Songs and children's shows often feature themes of friendship and play that take place in creches, enchanting young viewers with relatable narratives.

Translations

Translations of the word "creche" in other languages:

🇵🇹 creche

🇮🇳 बालवाड़ी

🇩🇪 Krippe

🇮🇩 tempat penitipan anak

🇺🇦 дитячий садок

🇵🇱 żłobek

🇯🇵 保育園

🇫🇷 crèche

🇪🇸 guardería

🇹🇷 kreş

🇰🇷 어린이집

🇸🇦 الحضانة

🇨🇿 jesle

🇸🇰 jasle

🇨🇳 托儿所

🇸🇮 vrtec

🇮🇸 barnagarður

🇰🇿 балабақша

🇬🇪 ბავშვთა ბაღი

🇦🇿 uşaq bağçası

🇲🇽 guardería

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,648 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.