Parents of children starting school in September are being encouraged to consider a career in childminding. This is part of our early years and childcare recruitment campaign, ‘Make a change. Build a future.’. The campaign aims to inspire people to enter or return to the sector.
To help prospective childminders, we are sharing the following tips:
1. Get registered. There are two routes to getting registered. The first is to become an Ofsted registered childminder. The second is to become a childminder with a registered childminder agency.
2. Check demand in your local area. Parents and carers look for high quality childminders in their area, so research how many other childminders are in your neighbourhood. However, childminders often have a waiting list, so there’s normally plenty of demand for services.
3. Gain experience in an early years role or with school aged children. Childminding is an ideal career option for anyone who has previously worked in an early years setting, school or with children. It’s also ideal for someone who’s looked after their own children and considering a move back into the workplace.
4. Gain financial support. The childminder start-up grant is available from the Department for Education. The scheme supports newly registered, eligible childminders. It provides them with a one-off grant to help with the cost of setting up their own businesses. We also offer practical business support to help you establish your business. Find out more information about available funding.
5. Start slow and then grow. It’s a challenge starting up your own childminding business. It’s different from looking after your own children. Give yourself time to adapt before taking on too many children. You may also be keen to offer care for children during the school holidays. Get to know demand for your service as this can also help your business grow.
6. Get to know other childminders. Reach out to other childminders to discover what it’s like to run a childminding business. Join local groups to gain support and advice from others in your profession. Consider joining a national association to access training, support and information.
7. Never stop learning. We have courses available to help you upskill and learn new techniques. This includes Makaton training in early years, safeguarding, plus observation and assessment support.
8. Be creative. Children thrive when they’re given an opportunity to see, hear and do different things. Be prepared to explore days out, walks in the park, as well as crafts and storytelling.
9. Be flexible. All children are different and their needs will vary. Ensure you provide personalised care to help each family that comes through your doors.
Find out more information and explore funding options for setting up a childminding business.