How far in advance do I need to look at childminders?

[tasmaniandevilchaser]

Hi DS is only 5 wks but I will need to think about childcare soon, not sure how soon though.

I will probably need to go back to work properly next April. I've put his name down at 2 childrens centre day nurseries , one of which is at dd's school, so should get sibling preference.

But as he'll only be a year old, I'd prefer a childminder for a year at least. But it seems the good ones don't have vacancies often. How far in advance do I need to book a good childminder?

for april 2014 - i would say start making enquiries from jan 2014 - dec 2013 if you can't bear to waut but be prepared to then pay a retainer if a cm has a child leaving and a place available immediately.

Jan/Feb 2014 may be a good time. If you look too earlier and find the right cm, you may have to pay a retainer, if you want the space held for you.