Choosing a childminder

[Allegrogirl]

DD1 is starting school in September. I need to sort out a childminder for just two days per week for 3 hours after school. I've just been to see a CM that the school gave me the number of. She seems nice but I don't really know what I should be expecting.

On the plus side she tells me is flexible and shares charges with the CM next door (also recommended by the school) if ill or on holiday. Doesn't charge for BHs or her holidays. She lives right behind the school and has taken mindees from there for years so is well known and connected to the school. She only takes school age children so won't be having to drop everything to do nappies etc. She is happy for DD to visit for a few times before term starts. She put me at my ease and was very chatty.

The only reservations I have are that she is an older woman (in her sixties I would say) and I wonder how she copes with lots of big, energetic children. Also the house is small and dated in appearance with a small back yard.

I really don't trust my own judgement and I'm not sure whether I should shop around a bit more. I've never left DD in a strangers house before. What would be the most important things to look for in a CM for a reception age child?

I wouldn't worry about the energy thing. When children first start school they are knackered at 3pm - they will just lie on a sofa asking for food and watching TV. When she finally does feel like playing, she can play with the older more energetic children. Ask the CM what she does - do they ever go to the park after school? Does she provide meals, do the children help with the preparation of meals or clear up afterwards? Does she help them with their homework? What does she do if they fight / argue? It's worth asking about the other children who will be there, age etc. and whether they go to the same school.

It's only for 3 hours so I wouldn't worry too much as long as the CM seems loving and kind and would provide similar sort of care / activities / food as you would at home.

Assuming the house is clean I certainly wouldn't worry about it being dated as I can guarantee the kids won't notice or care! Again small house & back yard perfectly workable but I would query whether she goes to the park after school as a bit of fresh air is only a good thing after a long school day. I also wouldn't worry about her age - she only has school children so working a very short day and many people her age or older are looking after children full time and cope perfectly well.
Do the children like her? Does she seem the sort who would give your LO a cuddle if she fell over? Is she approchable? She sound very nice from your original post ....