best way to fill spaces

[cay]

hi all i have been lucky enough to have to have ahd to children full time since starting childminding but due to a change in the parents hours they are cutting down to 3 and a half days so i need to fill the other spaces as i have not lived here long i dont have a network of friends etc what is the best way of advertising xx

[Loushah]

I have got most of mine from childcare.co.uk and word of mouth. Let everybody you know that you are a childminder with spaces available. I also have magnets on my car.

I also have done leaflets in the past with not one response but it may work for you. Other ideas which might be worth a try is advertising at local shops, libraries, schools, playgroups, sure start centre etc.

Hth

[silvermist]

All mine have been through word of mouth. Put a postcard in shops and post office in your area, I put them in all the takeaways too. Also let schools and groups in your area know you have vacancies. Good luck xx

[LauraS]

Most of mine have been childcare.co.uk, with two being word of mouth.

I haven't.advertised elsewhere as yet. I'm not as full as I would like to be with schoolies but am sure that will happen, eventually

[cay]

as i dont know anyone and i am new to the area word of mouth which is the best way to advertise is not a possibility just now but i have advertised in the local shop there are a few child minders in my little community already so it a but competative but will see about getting a magnet thing for my car x

[Rick]

I found the best way was getting to know parents from toddler groups and childminders from childminding groups (they can maybe pass on enquiries no good for them).
I wrote an article for the local website and posted frequently.
Childcare.co.uk has also been a good way of getting in touch with parents.

[mushpea]

Good ol childcare.co.uk for most, neighbors, friends, word of mouth, children whose childminders can't cope I'm their third and last resort lol, car magnets got me a family of 3 who stayed with me 3yrs then left and now want to come back