FIS: Find Childminders

Registered childminders look after your child along with other children, usually in their own home.

They are self-employed so decide on their own hours, most are willing to wok early mornings, evenings and weekends as well as part time.

All registered childminders are required to undertake a basic training course, including first aid, and most go on to do further training and development.

QUESTIONS TO ASK A CHILDMINDER

• How long have you been childminding?  
• What qualifications do you have? 
• What other children will be with my child and how old are they? 
• Do you have any references I can follow up? 
• Have you joined a quality assurance scheme? 
• Are there any additional charges (sickness, holiday etc)? 
• Can I see the rooms my child will access? 
• How do you work in partnership with other professionals? 
• Do you use a contract? 
• Can I meet other members of your family? 
• Can you talk me through a typical day/week?  
• What records do you keep on my child? 
• Do you go out on trips? If so, is there an additional charge?
• Are there safety processes in place? Eg consents, risk assessment, transport. 
• What is your procedure for settling a child in? 
• Are there suitable sleeping arrangements?  
• Do you belong to a childminder network? 
• Do you drop off/collect from other provisions? Eg pre-school, school. 
• Can I see your registration certificates?  

For Further Information on Childminders in Wirral please contact the Family Information Services on fis@wirral.gov.uk 0800 0858 743