Childminder for age 3-4 nursery grant?

[Jossaroonie]

Hi all my son goes to a couple of sessions a week at a pre-school, and it will become free from sept 2013, but I won't have used the whole free 15 hours as his play school only opens for 3 half days a week, dies anyone know if I can too up the rest with a childminder? Thank you! Julie

'Top up' *typo!

Yes you can top up with a childminder, but will need one who is able to draw down the money (an accredited childminder) as only some childminders can. Does your son already go to a childminder or are you looking for one. If he already goes, does your childminder offer the 'free' places. If he doesn't already go to a childminder contact your local Family Information Service & they will be able to give you a list of childminders who are accredited & might have spaces.