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Original poster

Is it reasonable to ask a childminder for a reference? Childminder withdrew offer of a place when I did.

32 replies

BranchingOut · 02/04/2011 08:54

Hello, I am interested to know if this is unreasonable or not.

I made an initial visit to a childminder and went back so my husband could meet them. We were given the contract to look at and began to talk about settling in next week. I was planning to do the contract over the weekend and give it back to them when we were due to meet for settling in, early next week. However, I asked them if I could have a quick chat to one of their existing parents, a bit like an informal reference, as I have been offered that opportunity by other childminders i have visited. They then sent me a very annoyed email saying that they were under no obligation to do so and were withdrawing the place as I clearly was not ready to sign the contract.

WHat do you think?
Thanks.

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looneytune · 02/04/2011 09:12

Very strange that is, I'd have no problem at all with being asked this and her reaction is rude! Shock. Think you had a lucky escape there!

vicki2010 · 02/04/2011 09:12

I am a childminder and actually prefer the prospective family to get references from my other families so they can get a real taste of my service and what i am like as a person! serious alarm bells would ring in this situation and actually you have prob had a lucky escape!!

plopplopquack · 02/04/2011 09:09

Weird! Is there a rule that they HAVE to provide a reference if you ask? I'd call OFSTED and ask.

washnomore · 02/04/2011 09:00

I think, whatever her motives, her behaviour would be enough to put me off. It wasn't an unreasonable request, I have done the same with a CM before, no problems. If she's that antsy about something this minor, what will she be like if you approach her with a concern about your child? And of course one does wonder what she has to hide ...

BoysAreLikeDogs · 02/04/2011 08:59

yes v odd

I am always happy for parents to follow up refs too

Summat to hide OR easily offended, in both cases you are well rid

HSMM · 02/04/2011 08:57

Very strange.

I am always happy for parents to follow up references.

HattiFattner · 02/04/2011 08:57

sounds like they have something to hide. If you had happy parents, you wouldnt mind letting everyone know.

Better off without them.