thinking of becoming a CMer

[bumpybecky]

We're possibly looking at moving house in the next 6 months (depends on DH moving jobs). I've thought about CMing before, but due to various reasons haven't done anything about it. Due to timing and a new house though the reasons are mostly resolved, so it would be possible.

I've had a very quick look at what you need to do for registration and it seems to be organsied by local councils. I think this means I have to wait until after we've moved before I can start. Is that right?

I've also been trying to work out if there is a demand for Cmers in the new area. There used to be a website with a map that let you search, but the sire I thought it was (childcare link) seems to have changed and it's impossible to search for vacancies IYSWIM. Are there anuy other sites that are good? it would be good to know there was the need for extra CMer before I got too much further!

Also do any of you mind older children? mine are 12, 10, 5 and 2 so I'm used to older ones as well as littlies. I'm wondering if there's demand for after school and holiday care?

So much to think of! thanks for any suggestions

The initial pre-registration and training is provided by the local authority. In some areas it is the County Council in others it is the local borough council. How far are you moving? What area are you considering moving to?

ChildcareFinder.direct.gov.uk will give you a list of childminders. It is quite new and has had data issues so not all childminders may be listed.

You could also contact the Families Information Service in the area to which you are considering moving for a list of childminders... that may give you some idea of how many are in the area, which schools they pick up from, how much they charge.

Consider some practicalities - you have 4 children 3 of whom are of school age. They may attend 3 different schools. Consider how you would do school runs including how many more children you could accommodate.