Is a childminder the answer?

[cazinge]

Currently ttc and looking at options for childcare as I will be going back to work quite soon after baby is born (18weeks ish).

DP mostly works nights so we will dovetail childcare but has to do some daytimes. Therefore, we would need childcare

Tues 10.30-12.30 (every other)
Weds 07.30-12.30
Fri 07.30-09.00

We could potentially get my mum to do some childcare but she carers for my Gdad who is 92 and got dementia and she will be doing a couple of hours babysitting one evening a week to allow me to do voluntary work I don't want to have to rely on her. Also, DP has to work an afternoon every 6-8 weeks which my mum will provide childcare for unless I can take annual leave.

Is a childminder the answer (there is one at the end of the road!)? How much do they charge? Or should we think about nursery 2 x mornings and ask my mum if she would do the other day? Would a childminder even consider the hours?

I think for a child this young cm is the way to go but they can only look after 1 under 1 at any one time. This may mean that they are already full in that aspect. But if they are not the child will get more care than in a nursery. Think the ration for them is 1-3 (someone else might correct me on that one.)

You may find someone who may be able to do those hours. Around my area though I know it's very rare as cm like older children and longer hours. If your fortunate enough you may find a cm couple or a cm with an assistant. This would increase your chances of getting care for your child as one can poss look after the younger ones while the other looks after older ones.

Do a thorough search for your childcare. As for how much they charge is dependant on the area. Some area's in London for example can range from £4.50 -£10.

Hi there. For someone so little I think Grandma and cm are the best choice. You want someone to do the 'mothering'for you on your behalf and with the best will in the world that is not replicated in nurseries. Nurseries can be of huge benefit to children over three but for little one's it's that 'mother figure' they need. I managed to find a very loving child minder via recommendation who was also very flexible with her working hours. Really put my mind at rest knowing they were cared for so well. I wish you luck with it all as I know it can be very stressful.

I would also vote for a childminder for such a small baby.