How do i become a childminder?

[joannewith1]

Hi everyone, my DS is nearly two and after 6 months at work full time I am beginning to feel as though I am missing out on so much of his life. I hate leaving him in the mornings (although our childminder is fantastic) and live for the weekends when we can spend time together. A friend suggested that I consider childminding but do not have the first clue about how to go about it. could anybody point me in the right direction?? I have no actual experience (other than DS and babysitting) but know that the local college runs first aid course (which I would definately want to do) and childcare courses. are these essential?

Thanks

Hi will give you more details later on tonight

in meantime phone up Ofsted/early years number in county council

NCMA will be able to help too.

sorry not much help at mo.

You need to do an 18 hr child orientated first aid course, a short course called 'introducing childminding practice'

If you contact the childcare information service (at the council) they will tell you if you need to pay to do these or if you can do them for free.

In our area you need to to an evening course/discussion to decide if it's for you - but not all councils do this - where are you?

How do you feel about running a business....doing accounts/advertising etc?