help with choosing the right childminder
Choosing the right person to care for your child is an important and often difficult decision. Here are some questions to help you make the right choice.
things to check with childminders
- They are registered with Social Services and have adequate insurance cover.
- Their home is a safe environment with plenty of play and learning opportunity.
- That if your child will be travelling by car, the childminder has properly-fitted car seats.
- That the contract - which you have both agreed - covers hours, pay, illness, holidays etc.
questions to ask childminders
- How long have they been childminding and how long do they intend to continue? Can they give you the name and telephone number of other parents they provide a service for so you can follow up references?
- What are the ages of the other children they look after - including their own - and which ones will be there at the same time as your child? (Book one of your preliminary visits when these children are there, to see how well they mix with each other.)
- What is the childminder's routine? How often do they take the children out, and where? What age-relevant activities will they do with your child?
- What kind of food do they provide and is it included in the fee?
- What other adults will be in the house and how do they feel about the arrangement? Who would the childminder call on in an emergency? For example, if they had to take one child to hospital, who would care for the others?
- What is their attitude and policy on key issues like sleep, potty training and setting boundaries on behaviour? Discuss and agree on the approach to be taken with your child.
- How does the childminder fit in household chores? Do they shop, or take other children to school while your child is in their care? How often and how will it affect your child's day?
- Ask the childminder or your local Early Years team to see the last inspection report.
