Advice needed please

[Jenpeck]

Hi everyone

I had my little boy in April and I'm loving every minute of it, so much so that I really don't want to return to work, I'm currently living in Camberley and childcare is very expensive here.

I'm looking at getting into childcare but all babysitting apps ask for 2 years experience and references from me to join, my current role is in procurement so not really the cv they're looking for lol, my experience is with children of friends and family and my own little boy, but everyone's got to start somewhere, right?

So, to cut to the case, what would you guys as mum's want to see from a prospective sitter for you to give me a chance at some sitting gigs so I can get the experience and references I need.

I've done a infant first aid course and currently doing a childcare course. Also dbs checked and I will of course get public liability insurance before starting and would never just sit a child infront of a TV there'd be lots of creative play and activities.

Any advice would be great x

Babysitting and Childminding are different things. It is not clear which you are wanting to do.

Is it providing childcare in your home?
If so then that would be childminding and Surrey Early Years would be your initial contact point for doing a childminding course, so you can become Ofsted registered.

To gain experience of caring for non-related children, are there friends you know with young children? You could perhaps do a evening babysit of their child/children at their home.

If you want to be a nanny in someone elses home you would ideally need to be qualified so once your childcare course is complete that would be enough. However not many families would be happy for you to bring your own child with you!
If you want to become a childminder and care for children in your own home you must be Ofsted registered. You dont necessarily need any experience but would need to check out your local area to see if there's a need for it etc. Your council will advice you on how to get started.