Hi,
I was thinking to extend my number of chidren by having an assistant but... I do my childminding from 2 bed flat (1 bedroom + single small bedroom) I have reg for 2 kids under 5 as my son is 2 and 1 over 5 so for 3 kids ... if I would hire assistant is there a chance I would be able to have one more kid under 5?Did any of you had the same situation?

I would have thought that as you are not registered for 5 plus your son already, that they have deemed your flat too small to accommodate more children.

So it wont change much if I will have assistant?

its worth a call to ofsted but they work on floor space per child rather than gaining an assistant to have more ... an extra adult may incur less play space


just as an example........

i have a large through lounge so can have full numbers being registered for 6 at any one time only 3 under 5

another cm same area has a smaller lounge and is only reg for 4 at any one time

neither of us have assistants but its space that may hold you back

To be honest I think you are lucky. I lived in a three double bedroomed flat with a large kitchen and sitting room and was only 4 under 8s I was on the first floor which I know influenced the decision.

As soon as I moved into a four bedroomed house I was allowed 6 children without even asking the inspector that came out to see the property automatically registered me for 6.

I guess all you can do is ask, don't get your hopes up though.

It is hard work having 4 under fives and it is surprising how much room they need, if you work with an assistant think about your space with two adults and the extra children!

Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

If you only want to look after one extra child and you have to pay an assistant surely it won't be worth it financially anyway?

I agree with the others about the space

Miffy xx