All Childminders are registered with Ofsted and most can care for up to six children under eight years of age. Of those six children, three of them can be under the age of five and of those three only one can be under 12 months. Registration details can however, vary from childminder to childminder and each registration certificate should be viewed when visiting a childminder.
Childminders provide care in their own homes for children aged 0 to 16 years.
Childminders are self employed and offer flexibility according to parents needs. Childcare arrangements may be on temporary or permanent basis. For example childminders can offer before and after school care, full time, sessional, school holidays and occasional care. Some childminders also offer shift cover, weekend and over night care.
When visiting a childminder you should ask to see their registration certificate which will be displayed. Ask to see their last inspection report, public liability insurance certificate and the policies of the setting.
CAUTION - ONLY USE A REGISTERED CHILDMINDER
For parents
Your Childminder will have:
- A warm and caring approach to welcoming new children.
- A variety of toys, books, and suitable play equipment that show diversity and positive images.
- A positive attitude to all people and treat them as individuals, with equal concern.
- A written agreement setting out the terms and conditions of the childcare arrangements.
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Your Childminder will expect you to:
- Provide information needed to ensure good quality care and continuity.
- Talk about any health problems or allergies your child may have.
- Take time to settle your child during the first few visits.
- Deliver and collect your child at the agreed time, pay promptly, and be clear about holiday arrangements.
- Have good communication between all parties involved in the child's care.
When OFSTED register new Childminders, they check:
- Experience.
- Health Records.
- References.
- For any criminal record, this includes all adults resident in the house over 16 years of age.
- The safety of the house and garden.
When you interview a Childminder you should ask about practical details such as:
- The types of activities on offer to the children such as outdoor play and following the child's interests.
- Follow the guidance of the Early Years Foundation Stage
- Charges for child care should be discussed and what it includes for example food, outings, toiletries.
- The number of children cared for and their ages.
- Views on matters such as behaviour, nutrition, and toilet training.
- Are pets part of the setting and how they are included.
- How housework and shopping are organised around the children's needs.
- Values within the household.