variation for 5??

**julie w** · 27-11-2010, 05:23 PM

I look after 3 under 5's every day (mon to Fri) and I love them and their families are great. However 2 of the mum's are expecting babies soon and expect me to care for their babies from September. Has anyone ever had a variation for 5 children under 5 including 2 under 1's? I have been with these families for years looking after brothers and sisters and I dont want to lose any of them. I know I could manage, but would it be possible. Any advice would be appreciated before I contact OFSTED. thank you.

**Hebs** · 27-11-2010, 05:25 PM

i was told that ofsted do NOT allow 5 under 5's, 4 being the max esp if the kids are so young

**miffy** · 27-11-2010, 05:40 PM

I know a childminder who did have a variation for 5 under 5's (not sure if there were 2 under 1 though) so it is possible.

Ofsted will not allow more than 6 under 8 though.

Miffy xx

**Alibali** · 27-11-2010, 05:55 PM

I was in the same situation 18 months ago, I didn't consider it, as I felt it would be far too much for me. I got a variation for 4 under 5, and took one of the babies 3 days and the other 2 days, I now have them all as bigger ones started school. One set of parents had to use another cm for the 2 days for 6 months, but it was the best I could offer.

It was really hard going having 4 under 5 never mind 5, you need to think of yourself, although I know how hard that is as we want to please everyone.

**Hebs** · 27-11-2010, 05:59 PM

Originally Posted by miffy

I know a childminder who did have a variation for 5 under 5's (not sure if there were 2 under 1 though) so it is possible.

Ofsted will not allow more than 6 under 8 though.

Miffy xx

i asked to be allowed to have 5 under 5's for 2 days a week, ofsted said no and i lost the mindee

nice of ofsted eh!! to allow some and not others

**Playmate** · 27-11-2010, 08:56 PM

May be you could consider taking on an assistant? hubby and I have 5 or 6 together some days, but its hard work and especially getting out and about.

**Zoomie** · 27-11-2010, 09:55 PM

Ofsted have granted me permission for 5 under 4s for next Tuesday.

Se 22m
N 25m
Sa 37m
I 41m
Su 47m

They have only granted it for a couple of hours and it is a one off.

Twice a week I have 4 under 4s for 1.5h and that is really hard.

I wouldn't consider it on a full time or permanent basis, but then that is just me.

**hello kitty** · 27-11-2010, 10:33 PM

I've got a variation for 5 under 5 for 3 afternoons a week but none under 1. Not sure I could manage 2 under 1, I do have 2 one years olds and it is full on (in a good way)