The benefits of childminding

For children

Registered childminders usually work from their own homes and young children and those experiencing childcare for the first time often cope better in these home based, family environments.

They benefit from home-based activities like cooking, stories, messy play, dressing up, gardening and mealtimes, as well as outings to the park, library and group activities.

Children benefit from the close relationship they develop with their childminder and many have the same carer right through their school years.

Small groups ensure each child receives lots of attention to meet their individual needs. This is particularly important for babies, very young children and those with additional needs.

For Parents

Some childminders may be able to provide overnight care and work at weekends.

Childminders offer care for children of all ages from birth to early teens, meaning siblings of different ages are cared for together during each day.

Most childminders can drop-off and collect children from school, pre-school or nursery.

Flexible hours- Childminders offer full or part time care. Many start before 8am and work after 6pm.