childminder or nursery

[mehdismummy]

hi guys ds is two and never been looked after by anyone other than me and dh. I think it would be good for him to mix with other children and also means i could work one day shift instead of all nights. Met a lovely lady at drop in who really seemed interested in her mindees and interacted well with them. Just unsure if i should go with childminder or nursery? Is a childminder also like just being with me?

Childminder - much more informal, more like being at home with you. Tend to get more outdoor time... visiting places, parks, going to toddler groups etc.

I tend to think (and the research I've read on the subject makes me think this too) that nannies and childminders are by far the most suitable form of care for under-2s. Once a child is 2-3 though I think they'll thrive in either environment, and a good childminder or good nursery would be equally good for him - just go with whatever you're most comfortable with.