Childminders North/Central Finchley -new to all this!

[bubblymummy]

Thinking about going back to work (few mornings per week) and will need a childminder in north/central finchley for my 8 month old. Anyone know any good ones?

My husband is normally at home in the day but I'd like a childminder perhaps one morning per week and then on the odd occasion (if he needs to work). I've been reading threads on contracts - seems like you need to make a commitment. Also, I've got no idea how much they cost and this will inform the type of work I go for.

Any advice greatly appreciated!

Hello, I'm sure you will be able to find someone lovely - there are so many good childminders nowadays.

Here are a few things to think about. Childminders can only look after one under 1 which is included in their three under 5 limit (though full-time school 4 yr. olds count as 5). It is for this reason that they prefer regular hours.

Your regular one morning shouldn't be too much of a problem though many CMs prefer full days.

About the other days there are several choices. You could ask for an as-and-when arrangement for which you could offer a higher hourly fee, but would have to take the risk of the CM not being available.

Or you could ask the CM to set aside a regular morning or so for which you would pay a retainer. You would have to agree how much notice would be given to her if you needed the morning, as even if being paid half fee doesn't mean a CM has to wait around til the last moment not being able to plan anything.

Finally, you would need to plan what to do when your child starts playgroup. i.e. would the arrangement stop, would you pay full-fee, or a retainer? - to avoid ill-feeling when the time comes its best to discuss this though it may seem a long time away!

Anyway, good luck!

BTW.... I meant one under-1 AT A TIME, and similarly, three under 5 at a time.