sourcing a childminder

[fluffymouse]

I've previously used nurseries and au paid for childcare, but as I will be going back to work when dd is around 9 months old, I think a childminder might be best as she will be a bit young for a nursery, and too young for an au pair.

Sorry if the answers to these questions sound obvious. The council website says the names, rough postcode and contact details of childminders, but nothing else. When is the best time to call? (I imagine they are busy in the day, but not sure if they would want work phone calls in the evening). What questions to ask over the phone? How long to look before returning to work - I intend to return in December?

Thank you!

I would email initially. Firstly, to check if they have a space or will have a space when you need it. Secondly, to check basic details like what hours/days they work, what their charges are etc. Thirdly, to arrange a time to chat/visit. There is no point in calling those who don't have space/are too expensive/only work term-time etc. Narrow it down to the ones who suit your needs first and then call. If there is anything that is a dealbreaker like having a dog/not driving/not picking up from a certain school then ask about this in the email too.

If you google the names some childminders have websites that you can look at to get an idea of rates/spaces etc.

How far in advance to look will depend on area, but it will probably be similar to local nurseries so base it on how far in advance you looked for a nursery. There is no harm in getting at least an idea of availability now though.

If there is one you really like the look of be sure to get in sharpish - kids will be off to school in September and their place gets freed up and snapped up quickly.

I called day or evening. However I also called the council employed childminder coordinator who was able to recommend good childminders near me.

outraged its interesting you say to ask about price initially. My council website advises against this. What do others think?

I put dd2 down for nurseries before she was born, but then there are very few nurseries in this area.

I am happy to answer the phone during 10am-3pm, if I'm busy I will always call back. I do prefer an email though as you can put more info in an email.
I would always ask about cost up front, that way you aren't wasting anyone's time.
Also it's good to discuss hours/days you require/ages of child.
I wouldn't start looking for December until late august at the earliest.