A very hypothetical childminder query.

[ButIForgetMyself]

Just thinking about returning to work after maternity leave, and considering applying for a learning assistant job.

DD, who is currently 3 months old, but would be older by then, would need to have childcare. The job is 30 hours per week, term time only.

Would childminders be likely take on a term time, school hours only baby mindee? Or would they tend to prefer a more fulltime mindee?

Or would it be better for me to consider a nursery? Would nurseries be likely to operate an hourly, term-time only rate? Or would I have to sign up for a fixed amount of time?

For someone who's worked in childcare for over 16 years, I don't know a lot, do I?!

A lot of childminders would consider this. For me, this would be quite ideal! I'm sure you wouldn't have a problem finding many that would consider it. Look up on the Childrens Information Service website at local childminders and give them a call.

I used a nursery for dd when she was little and as far as all the ones I know of are concerned, they didn't do term time only. A lot charge a half day or full day fee, but school hours would class as full day. Again, phoning them up would be the best option as many might do different things and you don't know if you don't ask!

Good luck.

I've cared for a teacher's children for 3yrs and don't have a problem with this. Some cms may charge a retainer for school holidays - I personally don't as I can then fill the place with 'school holiday care' children. As southernbelle said, contact your local family information services dept - or check out cms in your area on childcarelink.gov.uk. Many cms prefer to 'juggle' part-time mindees - not literally I hasten to add - rather than sign up to several full-time contracts. Good luck .

hi there,
were about are you from? I only look after teacher's children so i can spend the holidays with my own so don't charge for them which seems to work well for both sides. Nursery's do usually charge for holidays as you are keeping the place open hope this helps x

I have several term time only children, so I'm sure you will find someone.

all my under 5's (i have 6) are all part time 2-3 days term time only
i dont charge parents in holidays as my before and after school children come full days in the holidays