When should I start to contact childminders?

[RodentOfUnusualSize]

Hi all, I am new to MN so I apologise if this question has been asked before.

I need FT child care in 3 months, is it too early to start contacting childminders?

From what I understand the notice period is 2 months, so presumably a CM would not know if they had any vacancies earlier than that?

Or have I left it horribly late and will not find anyone now? All of the nurseries in the area have long waiting lists so I suppose it will be a similar story for CMs.

Thanks.

Depends a lot on your area, if their are a lot of CM's then you will prob be ok, but if I were you I would start asap. My parents check with me when they are TTC, as I very rarely have spaces.

You will need time for settling in as well, which can take a few weeks.

Agree with atwork, I'd start looking not tbh.

Just thought as well, we are coming up to busy season parents booking for September intake, so get ya skates on

Thanks so much, I clearly need to get a wriggle on.

I work on a 4 weeks notice period, 2 months is not standard. I am seeing people now (even though I am full) who are looking for care from July and from October... they'll go on the waiting list and if a vacancy opens up I'll ring them. People's circumstances can change quickly.

So now is definitely a good time to start looking around... and I'd advise going to a few CMs so you have a good idea of what's offered... and a better base on which to make your final decision on who you'd like to go with.

Good luck! Go with your gut