What do I need to become a childminder?

[atlasthebrute]

Am maybe thinking of childminding, and was wondering what I need to pass all the inspections etc. I have two kids of my own (DD nearly 4 and DS nearly 2), so obviously have all the clutter that comes with them.
What do Ofsted inspectors look for and will I have to shell-out a load of cash to buy all sorts of equipment??
I live in a teeny house, too, which makes things a bit trickier!
If there are any childminders out there who can enlighten me and indeed tell me anything about childminding, I'd be sooo grateful. x

I would suggest posting your question over on the Childminders, nannies, au-pairs board as then childminders are more likely to see your message.

I used to work for Ofsted, so know a bit about this though it was some time ago now.
As part of the registration process, you will get a Registration Visit, which is a childcare inspector visiting your home to talk with you about how you plan to meet the requirements of the National Standards and to check the suitability of your home. You do not need equipment in place for that visit, but you will need to have a list of things that you are intending to get - for example, stair gate, fire blanket, cupboard locks.

With 2 under 5's yourself, you will be very restricted in the number of children you can care for. You may get approval to care for 1 child under 5 and 3 children aged 5 to 8 - but it is subject to the size of your home (specifically the room(s) which will be used for childminding).

Come on over to the Childminders board, and chat with us childcare providers... I'm sure you will learn loads, as many of us have been working in the childcare industry for many years.