Thinking about becoming a childminder

[sllimk1984]

Hi,

I have an eleven month old daughter and since I have been back to work, albeit on a part time basis, I have started to think about becoming a childminder. Although I really enjoy my job, I would just prefer to spend the time with my daughter, which childminding would obviously allow me to do. My employment has always been with children and with special needs children in particular, so I feel childminding is something which would suit me.

I understand my first step would be to attend a pre-registration session where I can find out more, however I have not been able to find out anything about this in my area on the internet. I live in East Sussex. Could anyone help with this?

I would be greatful if anyone had any advice for me, particularly on the training in terms of duration and costs etc. I would also like to hear from any childminders who specialise in special needs, as I have a degree in Human Communciation Studies (speech and language therapy).

I look forward to finding out more. Many thanks.

[The Juggler]

hi hon, can't help with your local info but I would call up your early years team on Monday morning. they should be able to help.

typically you'd attend two briefing sesions about childminding then go through the process of applying, CRB check, ofsted forms etc. Can take around 6 months at the moment.

Given your background, sure you will be a great CM! good luckx

[Toothfairy]

Im in Kent & it took me around 9 months to register.

I had to go to an induction evening, then I had to do the course and the ICP exam, a 2 day paediatric course & a safe guarding course and CRB check.

The problem I had was getting on the courses, my local course was cancelled and I then had to wait for a course to come up in another area ( 1 hr drive away).

I then had to wait for a Paediatric first aid course to come up.

Its alot of waiting around and a very frustrating time.

My advice to you would be, do not give up your job until you are registered and have some mindee's in place. I have heard alot of stories of people handing in their notice at work because they think that in a couple of months they will be minding. The reality is that registration can take anything from 4 -12 months if not longer and then you have to find mindees. There are a few CM's on this site that have been registered a while now and are still struggling to find Mindees.

This can be a very stressful time finacialy.

I don't mean to sound negative but just wanted to let you know its not a straight forward process.

On the positive side, it can be a great career and fits in with your own young children.

Good luck, you will find this forum a fantastic sourse of information and advice.

[sllimk1984]

Many thanks Tooth fairy and Juggler for your advice. I have been in touch with my local authority and am waiting for info to be sent out to me. Am looking forward to finding out more