Childminders and Contracts
Golden rule for parents before committing to a childminder is to have a contract in place. Start as you mean to go on, have everything defined, crystal clear and signed off on before you proceed. Same thing applies to a crèche (more on that later). Many savvy childminders will already have a version of a parent handbook/contract itemising their terms and conditions, however, all too often, both parents and childminder enter into a vague, verbal relationship which can easily end in tears.
Sit down with your prospective childminder and clarify your new business relationship. At the very least agree the following in writing:
- Hours of care
- Is there a penalty if you are late occasionally
- How many days holidays you will pay childminder
- Will you pay bank holidays
- Will you pay when you do not bring your child to childminder
- How much notice will you give when children will not attend e.g. holidays
- Will you pay if your children are sick and unable to attend
- Agree a sickness policy i.e. agree incidents when child is sick/contagious and childminder can request you collect your child
- Will you pay sick pay to childminder
- Will you pay if your childminder is unable to take your children
- How much notice should your childminder give if she needs time off
- How many meals and snacks will childminder provide (and any specific requirements)
- Agree methods of communication e.g. chat at pick up, comment book, weekly chat
- Agree methods of dealing with challenging behaviour/discipline so everyone is consistent and on the same page
- What do you need to supply e.g. nappies, wipes, food?
- Ensure all insurance is in place both for within the house and any transportation in the car
- Indicate all designated persons for pick up of the child and ensure childminder is always informed in advance
- You may want touch on daily activities and interactions i.e. will child be going to the playground, shops, meeting with any adults besides the minder and discuss any concerns
- When and how you will pay plus receipts if required
- How much notice required should you withdraw your child
- How much notice required should childminder withdraw service
The above suggestions are merely a guideline for formulating your own contract with your childminder because ultimately every situation, parent and child is unique and you will have your own requirements.
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