Active discussions

Please or to access all these features

Talk
Paid childcare

Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

Original poster

Benefits of childminder

54 replies

riab · 22/12/2006 14:17

What do you think the benefits of a childminder are over nursery (if you think there are any) for a 1-2 yr old

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Set a reminder
ThePrisoner · 22/12/2006 17:11

Cuddles whenever you want them (can apply to parents too if necessary!!)

I am obviously totally biased as I'm a childminder.

choosyfloosy · 22/12/2006 14:59

Disclaimer: these are the reasons that I had for making the choice I made for my individual family. No disrespect to any other choice is intended. More than one version of parenthood is available.

Pluses for me are the one-to-one - always the same person. Under 2 I felt that was the top priority, way over stimulation or socialisation etc.
Slightly more homelike environment. But it matters that the home is one you would like to spend time in yourself.

crace · 22/12/2006 14:58

All the above, and a more tailored routine to your child where as possibly a nursery the child would fit in their routine..

Can take them to toddler groups, and preschool groups, library visits..

For me, it was always the flexibility a childminder could provide plus a relaxed routine - or more geared to my own which is possible as they have less children. Now that I am a c/m I am doing all this!

cyrilthefestivesquirrel · 22/12/2006 14:22

1-2-1 attention
Small group setting
Loving, caring, involved carer
Possibly a more mature/experienced carer
Home environment
'Normal' daily activites
Time for rest/sleep
Probably going out every day
Chance to form a close, lasting relationship with carer/her family/other children

Need I go on?