Why choose a childminder?

Found below are some of the reasons why childminders could be a positive choice for your childcare needs. The points made may not be reflected in our service but are for general guidance.

One of the advantages of using a childminder is that your baby or child will be one of a small group, and the childminder can therefore offer plenty of individual attention. Childminders' own children and space in the home are both taken into account when deciding how many children can be looked after.

The maximum numbers that a childminder can care for are six children under eight years; of these six, no more than three under five years and, of these three, normally no more than one under one year, although exceptions may be made for twins and siblings.

Childminders usually have mixed-age groups, which closely mirrors family life and may help your child learn to feel comfortable around older and younger children. It also makes it easier to care for all the children in a family, from babies to school age children. Often, childminders look after children from babyhood through to secondary school, giving them a great sense of security and continuity.

Many parents like this family-friendly interaction, and often what starts out as a childminding arrangement becomes a strong friendship that lasts for years.

Taking your child to a childminder can be the next best thing to your own home. If you're lucky enough to find a good childminder close by, so much the better; your child will feel even more at home.

Using a registered childminder means that you may be able to get help with your childcare costs through the childcare element of the Working Tax Credit (WTC). To find out more, ring the Inland Revenue Tax Credit helpline on 0845 300 3900.

From a practical viewpoint, childminders can often be more flexible about pick-up and drop-off times. This extra flexibility may mean that you don't have to organise backup care as often. However, like all childcare arrangements, it is important not to take advantage, otherwise you may find that you have to start your childcare search all over again.

You may also find that there is a Children Come First childminder network in your area, with a co-ordinator who may be able to help you find alternative childcare when your childminder is ill or on holiday. Contact the National Childminding Association for details.

Childminders increasingly hold qualifications. The Certificate in Childminding Practice (CCP) is in three parts and many local childcare co-ordinators are using the first part of the CCP, the Introducing Childminding Practice, as a compulsory introductory course for registered childminders in their area.

Finally, most childminders are parents themselves, so you know you are leaving your child with someone familiar with the basics of baby and child care and who probably has a healthy dose of the parenting instinct as well as training.