Backup childcare

[wanderingalbatross]

Do you have backup childcare arranged? If so, what do you have in place?

My DD's childminder has just told me she is unable to take her for the rest of the week (a very good reason, I'm not annoyed at her as there's nothing that can be done) but I'm stuck for what to do. I've tried a couple of nanny agencies who claim to offer emergency childcare, but they all say they can't provide anyone that quick. Both mine and DH's families live a couple of hours drive away and work full-time. Just wondering what other people have in place for this kind of situation?

This was about the only benefit of DD going to nursery (for the few months she did go) - we didn't have a backup plan but of course the nursery did. If I was looking for a childminder now it's definitely one of the questions I would ask. You both have the right to unpaid parental leave for situations like this, though.

Annual leave?
Again, this was one of the reasons why I chose a nursery over a CM. Luckily both DP and I can work pretty flexibly too. DD is at school now which is in some ways easier, although covering holidays is more of an issue - there is before and after school clubs and you get to meet more parents and can offer reciprocal childcare for emergencies and stop gaps.

Does your childminder have any suggestions? She might know a fellow childminder with spaces?

Luckily MIL is just round the corner and can help with a few hours. DH and I have variable flexibility, but can usually take time off if need be.
Lastly, nearby friends who may be able to help at a push, usually in return for reciprocal child care and wine and chocolates

We "borrowed" a friend's nanny for a couple of days. She was just up the road from the childmionder so had our two as well as her own charges, but it was a one off. GP's help as they are retired but sometimes one of us just has to take time off. There is only so much you can do.

Thanks for your replies - I asked my CM if she knew of alternatives, but childcare is oversubscribed here. DH and I have managed to organise our meetings so we can mostly cover the days, and a friend has offered to help on another day. Luckily we both have flexible jobs!

Am interested to see what other people have in place :)

Childcare agency. Call up book someone for a few days

One reason we chose nursery, my job is luckily very flexible and dh and I flag veey important days to each other and make sure we dont both jave something critical the same day.