Probably been asked loads before but considering a childminder

[gregssausageroll]

We're moving to a new town and considering a childminder. DS is currently in a nursery but I really want him to go to his school nursery when he is 3.

There is a recently registered lady who has space (no children yet) so considering going to see her but with having no children I can't see how she interacts with us being there and looking after the children in her care.

Can anyone help me with what I should be looking for?

Thanks.

I was in the same position (as a childminder). It's hard to explain what the environment is going to be like when you look after children if you haven't got any at the moment. Just ask her how she'd plan her day and what activities she'd plan for him. Ask if she's going to take him out anywhere, how often and where. Ask if she already has any resources (toys) for children his age. If she hasn't ask her what she's thinking of providing for him. You'll get the general idea of what she's like when you meet her and if you like her go for it. Things like toys can be sorted very easily at very little or even at no cost if she knows where to look. Also take your son with you maybe for a second visit so that you can see how she interacts with him.
If she's newly registered the chances are she'll get other children to look after at some point too so your son won't be alone.

I would also add that your intuition can tell you a lot about a childminder. Within five minutes, your gut will be giving you some indication - then you can corroborate that with all the information that apotomak suggests you ask for.