Childminders - where do I start?

[BabydollsMum]

So, DD is 13 months now and I'm going back to work (BOO!) - looking to hire a childminder for 2 days a week. I've seen that somebody local has a vacancy, so I'll give her a call but just wanted to know what should I be looking for in terms of refs, contract, hours, what her house is like, how many other kids she looks after etc? Basically how it all works as I haven't got a clue and to be honest it's only in the last few weeks that I've been able to think about it without crying (clingy mum!) so I'm completely new to this and as you can imagine a little apprehensive. Any advice greatly appreciated! x

Have a look on the NCMA (National Childminding Association) website - they have some advice on there, including a list of questions you should ask.

Arrange to go and see a couple of other minders too rather than just the one.

Each CM works slightly differently in terms of contracts, availability, how many children they can mind and what services are offered, so it's just a case of looking until you find one that you 'feel' is right, that your DD likes and that you are happy to leave your DD with.

Great! It still feels very weird and slightly wrong. I guess we all go through it. The more reassurance I can get the better so thank you!

You think you're worried - I registered as a CM so I didn't have to leave my PFB