Could I become a child minder? what are the pro's and cons ?

[mummyloveslucy]

Hi, I have a 3.5 year old daughter who's at nursery 4 days a week. We are also having fertility treatment to have another baby.
At the moment, I work 2 nights a week in a care home for adults with learning disabilities. I have to stay awake all night and there is a horrendous amount of ironing and work to do, and none of it is appreciated in anyway. I'm just a bit fed up with it. It's also rubbish money.
I just wondered wether to go for a child minding qualification ? I love children and know I'd be good at that and enjoy it too.
Is anyone hear a childminder? what are the pros and cons? I thought this would be a great way of being home with the new baby (fingers crossed) and working and bringing money in.
My friend also wants to do it. I don't drive though so don't know if this would be a problem? how much would you earn as a CM ? I'd be willing to do sleep overs for the children and take children with special needs. I've worked in care for 11 years, but don't have any experience of working with children.

[mummyloveslucy]

The pre- reg meeting isn't untill the 6th of January. I've booked a place on the course though.

Is it a good thing to do? I'd be greatfull for any info.

[flowerybeanbag]

Have you posted on the childminders topic? Lots of childminders hang out there and I'm sure they would be happy to share their thoughts and experiences.

[mummyloveslucy]

Oh good, I didn't know there was a childminding topic. I'll try there.
Thanks.