So how do I find the right CM? Any tips?

[becstarsky]

I've just been asked for a job interview for a full time role. Very nervous, it's been ages since I worked full time in a 'proper' job! If I get this job I'm going to need someone to do school pick up.

I don't know any other mums who use a CM, so I can't get a word of mouth recommendation unfortunately. All my friends use the after school club, but there are good reasons that won't work for DS, and I can't afford a nanny - anyway I think DS would prefer a CM so he could play with the littl'uns (he's an only and loves babies) and be in a home environment. I've got the list of CM vacancies in our area from the FIS. Is that the best source of info, or should I be looking somewhere else? What should I ask? What do I look for? Sorry if this has this already been dealt with in other threads - I've searched but haven't found... Am in quite a state of over-excitement and nervousness both about the change in my lifestyle and about whether DS is going to be okay.

congratulations on interview - have a look on the childminders section here are quite a few threads - on choosing one -and ask any questions
childcare.co.uk is another place to look -
but practically there will only be a few childminders doing the the school run to your DS's school -it should be possible to find out which ones they are..
I go on whether I and DC like them really - also will you need holiday cover and will you need them to provide tea - some don't

Does the school keep a list of the ones who do school pick ups from your school? Lots do.
Also if you ring a childminder and they can't help ask them for recommendations of other childminders who do have vacancies- Round here most are filled by word of mouth.
You have to visit them and see what you think. A lot of time it will be a gut feel of whether both you and your child will get on with them.
Check they are registered with OFSTED or they can only mind for up to 2 hours a day.
Check insurance certificates.
Check if they will be using a car if they have suitable seats and if they have business insurance.
Ask to read their ofsted report
Ask if they provide meals - if they charge extra for that, what sort of things they provide
What they will typically do with the children
Have a look at the house and garden if there is one
See if they have any references and talk to the other parents - if the childminder has nothing to hide she will not mind you doing this.

Make a list of questions and don't be intimidated - you should be able to ask what you like about the care provided and the childminder should be able to answer it honestly

You need to talk about cost, holidays what happens if your child is sick/the childminder is sick after school activities if your child goes to any can she deal with the pick up/drop off for any of these.

Oh and good luck with the interview - should have put that first

Thanks An0therName, those are all really helpful thoughts and thanks for the congratulations too! I'll have a mosey over to the childminders section. There seem to be quite a few CMs locally (NW London).

Thanks alison222 - cross posted! I'll ask at our school if they have a list. those are great questions for me to ask, thank you!