Is it worth doing childminding course even if you can't start straightaway?

[Ripeberry]

Hi, i'm still mulling over starting the childminding course.
My DD2 won't be starting reception until 2009 and i feel that i want to start learning now but maybe not start having mindees until 2010.
Would you suggest waiting OR taking the course anyway to see how it is and maybe get some information that i could use with my own children for now?
It's just that once i register properly i would like (if possible)to deal with mainly under 5's and until my DD2 is older this would mean that i would not be able to have so many mindees.
Can this be done? or do you HAVE to register straightaway?
Thank you.

Think you have to have done the course within 6 months of registering - or something like that anyway? You could register sooner but then the fees are shooting up so not worth it unless going to actively start.

You can do the course without registering. I did the course to become an approved nanny and was told that if I wanted to become a childminder in a couple of years then it would be fine.

I'd do it.