help with becoming a childminder

[btonmummy]

Hi all,

As the title says I am thinking of becoming a childminder. I have two DC 4 and 2. I've been working in a pre-school for the last year and have very nearly finished my NVQ 3 in child care learning and development. I really need something that fits in with getting my DD to and from school, and where I can still have DS at home with me. CMing seems to be the solution until both of my DC are in full time education.

Can anyone tell me how much work is involved in registering with ofsted? And at what stage do you receive an ofsted rating? Also what sort of things will I have to do re health and safety? We have a lot of stairs, and currently don't have any child catches on cupboards etc, in fact despite having my own DC my house isn't especially child friendly! And finally what sort of toys/resources are you expected to provide? Can you get by with just buying a few to begin with (I can't see my DC being keen to share their things) or do you need to have everything in advance?

Sorry to post so many questions. Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks

P. x

Expect the registration process to take around 6 months. you need to contact your local authority who will book you onto an initial briefing session that will explain all your questions.

You'll be required to attend several workshops locally that help you understand what it is to be a childminder and how to generate your policies and procedures. As you've already been working in a pre school you are one step ahead already.

Ofsted will require a full medical consent form, and a CRB for everyone living in your house over the age of 16. They will provide you with the means to do this.

There are costs associated with registering but most LA's offer Registration Grants. In Lancashire where i am its about £200. You can use some of this money to 'child proof' your home.

You dont need to have everything up front. As long as you can demonstrate to the inspector that you know what you need for each age group and where to get it you'll be fine.

Finally, you get your grading approx six months after registration, when you have your first proper inspection.

You are right that becoming a childminder will help you fit in with caring for your own children. however i find childminding to be more of a lifestyle than a job. It is very difficult to seperate home and work. Having said that i wouldn't change it for the world.

Good luck.