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

Original poster

Childminders - excited! And terrified!

29 replies

lunavix · 07/03/2005 13:49

I've been a registered childminder for a little while now but haven't done much in the way of advertising and the local CIS have ONLY just put my details up. But I've just had a call from a prospective parent!!!!!!! Yay!

But it's been nearly a year since my ICP - yes Ofsted took that long - and I swear I have forgotten everything... what do I need to mention in my initial interview this week?

Plus what does everyone do about holidays, bank holidays, food etc? I'm still undecided about all this!

Also she wants the place in a few months time - what do you all do for this? Take 50% per month or are you more easy going?? Please help!!!!!!!!!

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blodwen · 07/03/2005 14:38

Sorry, forgot the retainer bit! I would agree with KMac. Either a retainer or a deposit. This is quite ofter half fee. You don't want to lose other business by turning down other enquiries if this one doesn't materialise.

Original poster
lunavix · 07/03/2005 14:37

KatieMac - you take two weeks holiday a year unpaid then?

My CM tutor (on ICP) told me they must pay for 4 weeks holiday a year, all bank holidays, and also half the rate for any months the place is held for!

I felt that was a bit much though....

OP posts:
blodwen · 07/03/2005 14:35

Lunavix, Congratulations on your first interview! I am sure it will be fine. FWIW, this is what I do about things you listed...

I include food in my fees once children eat 'normal' food, ie. not when they are first weaning, having really pureed stuff etc. Once they eat 'mashed up' stuff with the others, that's included.

I only mind for teachers, so they pay me a retainer in the school holidays, and half fee if a bank holiday falls on one of their contracted days. I charge full fees for child absence due to illness etc., but no fee if I am off.

Obviously, all CM's do things a bit differently, and I'm sure you'll get more ideas on here very soon! Good luck with the interview; any more questions, feel free!

KatieMac · 07/03/2005 14:33

Lots of luck, I would take a deposit or a retainer if I were you

A deposit would count towards childminding costs (ie first month) or a retainer to keep the place open

Food RTKM & I take opposite stands on this with Xena in the middle, you can also charge extra for food

I charge for 50 weeks of the year and split the cost into monthly amounts - so they pay for B/H - but that is a bit mean of me.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you

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