Schools, early years and childcare

So how do I select a childminder?

If you feel a childminder would suit you and your child's needs, you must find the person to meet your requirements.

Some basic tips

• Start looking for a childminder well in advance.
• Make second visits to the people you liked.
• Be clear about what type of care you want.
• Be prepared to spend time settling your child in.
• Decide if you want a childminder near home, near work or on the way to work?
• Contact other parents as referees.
• Take your child with you to see how they get on with the childminder.
• Prepare a list of questions to ask the childminder.

Questions you may wish to ask a childminder

• What training or experience do you have?
• Can I see your registration, Ofsted report and insurance certificate?
• What are your normal hours of work?
• What are your fees?
• Are meals included in the fees?
• What arrangements are made for holidays?
• What charges are made for absence or sickness?
• What are your overtime rates?
• Do you have experience of working with children with special needs?
• Do you have emergency arrangements with another childminder?
• How many other children do you look after and what are their ages?
• Are you a member of the National Childminding Association (NCMA)?
• Do you drive?
• Do you smoke?
• Do you have a garden?
• Do you have pets?
• What is your routine and what activities do you provide for the children?
• Who else will be in the house while you are minding?
• How do you manage difficult behaviour?
• How can I reserve a place?

For a list of childminders with vacancies in your area, please contact the Children's Information Service at the number below. Alternatively you can search on www.childcarelink.gov.uk/medway.

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