To think that my childminder shouldn't charge me for activities?

[Falcon1]

I already pay £7 per hour per child (2). On top of that I have to provide nappies and wipes, then I'm charged for any activity she takes the kids to. I can appreciate that if it's something expensive like soft play , then I should contribute, but surely playgroups should be included in the hourly rate? Particularly as it is her choice to take the kids to them. It's not a lot of money but it all adds up.

My CM is £3 per hour inc all food & activities. They usually go to soft play & toddler groups twice a week. That seems really excessive where are you makes mental note never to move there

In all seriousness, I would look for a different one or a nanny!

Tarla - Ofsted don't require you to plan activities in advance.

When I had my inspection I had to show evidence of planning, it didn't need to be massively in depth but I did have to show that I was planning activities based on where each child was within the EYFS and where these activities fit in terms of my next steps planning for each child.

None of your planning needs to be written or done in advance though, so long as you are meeting children's developmental needs. So of course on a whim you could decide to go to the zoo or softplay or the library or stay at home if you felt the children would benefit - finances (whether yours or the parents) should be a consideration though.

I would pay for entrance fees happily if my DC were getting out and having fun.

I am in the South East and pay £11.61 gross per hour for a Nanny.

I've used 3 different CM. Irrespective of their hourly rate, I've never been charged for activities, EVER.

My CM would take them to the park, library, beach, toddler groups etc i.e. Free/minimal cost activities.

I would have been happy to pay a float of strong £10/week, for pre-agreed expenses, but it was never necessary.