stupid question - how do you know you've found the right childminder?

[stainesmassif]

i've just been to see my first one. she's lovely. loves babies, loves my baby, huge garden, loads of activities, flexible hours, similar approach to child care - what else should i be looking for?????

i know it is a stupid question, but would really appreciate some wise mumsnet words!

for me I have to feel comfortable and that they cm similar / same to the way I parent.

one thing I do do though when I visit a prospective cm is ask about weekly activities and where they go. I then turn up, unannouced at the toddler group a couple of weeks later, join in and quietly observe the cm. My first cm I happened to do the other way, met at a toddler group, didn't know she was a cm and found out just as I was looking.

for me, was the following:
would you feel comfortable asking stupid questions / requests?
sounds silly, but with my CM, I knew she wouldn't mind me asking to only give my DS water to drink / sing to him as she puts him in the cot.
and agree, someone who is passionate and enthusiastic about kids and who is creative with filling their time!
someone who is firm, but fair. i wanted to see how she 'managed' the other children in her care.
do the other children seem happy/have a bond with the cm?
hth - good luck

thanks both, am still going to see some more ladies, but i feel sure this lady is perfect....i just don't want to go back to work!! but that's another issue.....