I'm probably being stupid but how do I find a childminder or a nanny share?

[benne81]

Hi

I'm first time parent and will be wanting to go back to work in June when my baby son will be 9 months old. I'm very new to all of this and really confused about how people find childminders or nanny shares? I've had a look at the childcare website but do I need to pay to contact possible childminders? Is there another way to find one without having to pay? Do the local council have a list etc? When should I be starting to look if I want to go back in June 2012?

Any advice greatly appreciated!

ps I need a part time nanny share/childminder for telegraph hill/new cross gate/brockley area starting in June 2012 aiming to go full time by the end of Septemeber.

Your local families information service will have a list of childminders, or www.childmindinghelp.co.uk or www.childcare.co.uk

It's worth registering (for free) if you haven't already done so, on Childcare.co.uk and in the info box put details of days hours etc you will be needing, as many CM's pay the membership fee and regularly check the profiles of parents in their area and message them if they have a suitable vacancy. If a CM member messages you can reply for free

I think your local Families Information Service is: Lewisham. They will have a list of all registered childcare provision in the area - so childminders, nurseries, home childcarers.

Childcare.co.uk is easy to register on. That service lists those childminders and nannies who decide to create a profile.

There is quite a lot of difference in my view between a nanny share and a childminder. Perhaps decide which you want - a childminder runs a business. A nanny you are the employer.

Thanks folks - I'll look into your suggestions. Do you think now is too early to start looking for childcare in June or about right?

I do really need to think about what would suit me best childminder/ nanny share but I suppose it depends on price/location etc - a bit more research is required methinks!

To find a nanny share you could advertise for another family on simply childcare, also wander if placing an advert in NCT magazine is worth a try?

www.simplychildcare.com