What is a child minder?
As from September 2001 all Childminders have to be registered by OfSted to be able care for children. Also, as from April 2003 all Childminders are graded, either Poor, Satisfactory or Good.

There are restrictions on the number of children a minder can look after. In general, minders can care for up to six children under eight years old, of whom no more than three may be under five and no more than one under one year old. Remember that the childminder’s own children are included in these figures also.

For more information regarding childminding regulations, please visit the OfSted web site. www.ofsted.gov.uk/childminders >>

What are the advantages?
If your child is with a childminder they will be in a home environment, with the same adult every day and probably with the same few children. A good childminder will access the local facilities, such as the library, parent and child groups, play park and so on. Childminders tend to be flexible about the hours they are able to offer.

What are the disadvantages?
It is essential to find out as much as you can about the way your child will be cared for, stimulated and occupied during his or her time with the childminder. Different families have different ideas on such things as manners, discipline, television etc and to some extent your child is joining another family while they are with the childminder. It is worth talking over issues that are important to you before you start employing a minder.

What should I ask?
Try to find out how your child will spend their day with the childminder. There may be a daily routine, which should include an adequate amount of stimulation and variety to stretch and occupy your child. Childminders differ as to their arrangements for holidays and sickness, both their own and those of your child: it may well be that you will still have to pay if your child does not attend, even if it is because they are ill or because you have an unexpected day off. Find out how much the minder will charge, and if you have to provide anything (nappies, packed lunch, pre-school fees etc).

If you need further information, please email info@eden-nannies.co.uk