When do I start looking for a childminder (west London)?

[HolidaysQueen]

Hi all -

I'm pregnant with my first baby (due in March) and then plan to take the rest of the year off work so would need to find a childminder starting in Jan 2009.

Clearly that's a long way away but I don't want to suddenly get to say November next year and realise I haven't done anything about it and should actually have started looking 6 months previously!

Anyone got any advice on how far in advance of needing a place is a good time to start looking?

Thanks!

I would suggest thinking about seeing childminders in September next year. They'll be fine about reserving a place then and probably take a retainer from you, to secure your place.

As they will only take one baby, I would start looking as soon as the baby is born and reserve a place as soon as you find one you are happy with. I was caught out on this and had to use a nursery.