How to choose trusted childminder

[Hann376]

Relocating to a new area in the summer and would prefer to find a childminder than another nursery for 2 yo.

how do I find right childminder ? I’ve asked in a local fb group but it’s not very active, got a couple suggestions but no idea if it’s just friends / families recommending them.

Should I be worried if childminders have immediate vacancies?

Also if a childminder is Ofsted registered but hasn’t yet had an Ofsted report as they’re fairly new should I avoid?

Also is it normal if childminder organises allows visits during the day when they are looking after kids or replies instantly to messages when they are working?

What red / green flags should I look out for ?

I like the idea of a childminder until 3 but honestly don’t know how I can trust someone with my child behind closed doors :(

Just go and visit some and see what you think. My advice is the sane as last time you asked, trust your gut, decide your priorities and write a pros and cons list. If you dont think you can decide by yourself then take your DH and choose together.

Go and visit, ask what activities they do during the week, watch them with the children. check out which toys they have, how clean and tidy the premises are.

Ask if you can speak to current parents. Ask how they report back to you on activities, food eaten, nap time etc.
if no ofsted report ask to see qualifications, first aid etc

do they take school children or not? For my children I’ve never gone with someone who spends their afternoons on school runs and then the babies/toddlers spend most of the afternoon in a car or with rowdy 6-10 year olds.

Ultimately go with your gut. I had wonderful childminders for years with both my children and overall think it can be a nice home type environments for babies and toddlers before preschool.

Not working today

I have a chat over phone then suggest a weekend visit to chat things through if after that your interested i set up a work time playdate so you can see me and the relationship with others i try to get parents along or ask if they are happy to meet you. I have references and lots of photos. I think seeing the relationship i have with other children helps. The children generally stay with me until reception i network with other childminders to help school transition.
Many childminders could have september spaces as others move to school.
I think you get a gut feeling and know if your parenting style fits their setting.