Choosing the right childminder near me can be a daunting task. You need to be sure that the childminder you choose will look after your child safely and will provide the best possible care.
Childminding is a home based childcare service that enables children to grow and develop in a positive, caring and stimulating environment. They offer a ‘home away from home’ for children of all ages and can be an excellent choice for parents with flexible working hours or those who work part time.
They also offer the advantage of a more personalised approach, with low adult to child ratios enabling children to get more individual attention from the childminder. They also have a more flexible drop off and pick up time than nurseries and are often able to look after siblings of different ages.
The key to finding a good childminder is to ask plenty of questions and take the time to visit their setting. Most childminders will be happy to meet you and your child before the contract is signed, to see if they are a suitable match for you and your family.
You should also check out the childminder’s policies and procedures, to make sure they follow good practice in all areas of childcare and early education. They should be able to provide you with a copy of these before you sign the contract and keep it safe.
Do they use the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum?
All registered childminders must use the EYFS curriculum to ensure they provide high quality, play-based learning and childcare. They must have a current SCMA learning log and a Continuous Professional Learning (CPL) record and have undergone training to understand the EYFS and be suitably qualified to implement it.
Do they have insurance?
All childminders should have insurance, which covers their own personal and professional liabilities. It should include cover against death, injury, and theft. It should also cover the childminder’s business premises, vehicles and equipment.
Do they have references?
A good childminder will be able to provide you with references from parents or previous employers. This can give you a good idea of their background and whether they are a trustworthy person.
Do they provide breakfast clubs, after school care and holiday play schemes?
These types of childcare are usually run by local organisations and can be used as part of your child’s daily routine. They offer care and activities to fit around school hours, mainly for children aged four to twelve years.
They can also take your child to and from school, if necessary, and look after them before and after. They can also help you with homework, errands or household chores, depending on the type of nanny or childminder you choose. childminder near me