Can anyone help me get childcare experience?

[somethingwitty3432]

Hi everyone,

I'm currently going through the adoption process & looking to gain voluntary experience with children aged 0-5. I have plenty of non-professional childcare experience in this age group with nieces & nephews etc so perfectly confident looking after kids but this isn't counted in my application. If anyone has any suggestions/is looking for help with kids I'm based in Bedfordshire but happy to drive wherever, I'm DBS checked, trained in Emergency First Aid for children as well as Safeguarding. I'm also a trained youth worker & work with children's (aged 11-21) charity's. I've asked local nurseries & volunteering centres but not getting anywhere fast.

Thanks!

I don't know if you are religious, but a lot of churches are desperately looking for Sunday school and creche volunteers.

Have you spoken to your local sure start? The library might also run a baby group for you to volunteer at, or have a ring round your local childminders and see if they would be happy for you to come in for a few hours.

I hadn't thought of either of those but I will do - thanks both! :-)

Offer to help
Out with Cubs?

Sorry, didn't read that properly ... 0-5 ... Try contacting local twins club and see if you can help
Out there/if any families need a hand

Contact local private day nurseries and explain your situation. A lot don't take volunteers, but if you say you're just looking for a couple of hours and explain about the adoption process I can't see many nursery managers turning you down

Aah poo my youngest is 6

Rainbows/Brownies/Guides would most likely bite your hand off especially if you could commit to a chunk of time (a term, perhaps) then they could plan activities around having an extra pair of hands