Hey everyone - about to take the leap...

[amylouise867]

After recently starting my own family and 8 years working with children I am looking to take the leap and become a registered childminder.

The childminder briefing for me is on the 17th July.

Been reading into lots on here and other sites.

So much to think about.... Headache with information overload!

Guess I need to see what the briefing entails and go from there....

Any information and advise any of you have though would be really welcomed!!

Thanks in advance!!
Amy

[Rick]

Hi Amy,

Have a look at this post which will tell you what's involved in registering as a childminder.

http://www.childmindinghelp.co.uk/fo...ildminder.html

Good luck

[The Juggler]

hi amy. i took the leap when my youngest was 2. I had no previous experience of working with children. 9 years on and this has been the best career move for me. been at home with the kids, earned a good living. had (mostly) lovely parents to work with and funded for lots of qualifications during the 9 years.

go for it. at the end of the day, you don't have to continue and can go back to what you did before but if you don't give it a chance you'll never know.

[amylouise867]

That's great!!!

Glad you have been so happy in your childminding

Always great, uplifting and encouraging to hear stories like yours

Thank you xx

[sarah707]

I have been childminding for nearly 20 years and I love it more every year!

Just take it slowly and don't overload and you'll be fine!

[ktdg85]

I registered October last year and love it, means I am able to watch my little boy grow up in addition to helping other families with their childcare. I would say that the course you go on can be a bit intimidating, just remember why you are doing it and that it means the childminders that continue and pass offer a high level of care for every child walking through their door.

[Bumble Beez]

I considered lots of options before deciding to become a childminder and that was now eight years ago...my initial thought was that this may work...but now I realise it was the best decision I ever made. I've been lucky enough to be around and watch my 3 boys grow, develop and become very sociable young people! And the influence we have on other children's lives is heartwarming too.
Set ground rules for your setting, make sure your own children have their toys and mindees have theirs (stops lots of friction!) oh and maybe have your own little 'office' area as I find this makes keeping on top of paperwork lots easier

Sarah x

[SazzyB]

I start a new course in 3 weeks. My baby is 4 months old and I'm really nervous about the course and paperwork but think it will be a great 'career choice' as I will get to see my baby grow rather than go back to work!! I hope it is successful and not too stressful!!

I hope you succeed with your new venture too!

Good luck!

It's great reading that people chose to do the same and are still loving it 20yrs on etc.... Gives me hope and belief that its this best choice for me and my baby xxx :-)

[SazzyB]

Ps how did your course go?

Mine is on 3rd September ..... Excited, nervous!