help - starting with a new CM

[chintzy]

We've just found a CM for our DS (will be 4 months old when he starts). She seems very nice, and really really experienced with children, having had her own family and is still a foster carer. Our gut feeling is that she is lovely and we're happy BUT

1. what do we do now - do you usually have a written contract etc?
2. are there any big questions we should be asking?

I feel a bit clueless, and even the most obvious and straightforward advice would be much appreciated!

yes you should have written contract, has she got an ofsted report you can look at? (won't have if shes not long started btw) her certificates should be up on her wall so you can see she's kosha (sp?)

there is a list of questions to ask cms somewhere on here maybe someone will be kind enough to post a link?

well, didn't see any certificates etc but the place was full of christmas decs!
I got her number from the local council list of approved minders so I presume she is kosher...she still fosters - would she have ofsted approval for this?

don't know about the fostering but if shes on the council list i would have thought she's ok but personally i would ask to look at her cert just for my own peice of mind. she won't mind you asking and if she does then you chose the wrong one good luck with it all

Depending in which area of the country you live, some councils wont let you childmind if you are a foster carer.
Might be worth checking this out.

If you've been to visit her, she ought to have told you the process. ie First visit, decision made, contracts drawn up and signed, settling in period negotiated.

Sally

aaaggghhh...just when I thought it was sorted lots more to check out...
I have to admit - I did wonder about fostering and CM at same time - will def. check this out.
Will contact the local 'head' CM and ask her as she knows the woman.
Thanks for all help so far

hi
strange you didnt see her certificates??Thought it was the norm to show mums/dads your portfolio etc??
How does it work with fostering? I didnt think u could cm and foster? Most of the children in her care are going to have serious issues i.e been abused physically / sexually and lots more..do you really want your child in this surrounding? Also every person in the hse hold has to be CRB checked over 16yrs - if she is fostering over 16's then how can possible work in time??

hi
strange you didnt see her certificates??Thought it was the norm to show mums/dads your portfolio etc??
How does it work with fostering? I didnt think u could cm and foster? Most of the children in her care are going to have serious issues i.e been abused physically / sexually and lots more..do you really want your child in this surrounding? Also every person in the hse hold has to be CRB checked over 16yrs - if she is fostering over 16's then how can possible work in time??