Childminders are probably the best form of childcare available to parents. In fact Dr Penelope Leach, the NCMA President says:

"I believe that for babies and toddlers, childminding alone is probably the best kind of daycare we’ve yet dreamed up. It does potentially better for children, families and for society." Source: The Guardian.

Why you should use a childminder

When you are looking for a childminder, there are many things that you will be looking for and will want to consider.

To give you a better idea of what a childminder can offer and how your child would settle, you may want to visit a few different childminders before making a decision. You may find that the one you choose isn't necessarily the first you find or the cheapest. It is all about finding a childminder who will meet the needs of your child and you
 

You should try a childminder because:

• They provide care in a home environment
• Childminders may work flexible hours to fit a range of working patterns
• Childminders can adapt to the child's routine such as school pick-ups
• Childminders are family-friendly as they can look after children of different ages
• With a maximum of three children ( under 5 ), childminders offer a more individual service
• Children can enjoy real-life experiences like cooking and gardening
• Childminders regularly go on outings to libraries, parks and drop-ins
• Life long friendships with the childminder and other children may be formed
• OFSTED inspect Childminders to make sure their practice is effective in delivering the E.Y.F.S.

Childminders can provide a vital and high quality service for both you and your child. Many childminders are able to offer a flexible service to include school drops and pick-ups, part time care to cover a range of working patterns as well being able to provide care for possibly all of your children.  

Childminders can provide a caring, friendly and relaxed environment for each child, taking in to account any special needs or requirements, making the care they give individual to each child.  

There are many benefits of using a childminder. Your child will be one of a small group as the most children any childminder can have is six under eight's. This means the childminder will be able to provide your child with care, attention and support that may not be available in other types of childcare.  

Your child may form close relationships with other children and the childminder, creating a welcoming and secure environment. Many childminders care for children from being a baby right through to teenage years providing continuity for you and your child.

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