Becoming a childminder - Sharon Parry

Are you looking for a rewarding, flexible career that allows you to care for your own children at the same time as you work? For many, child minding seems like the ideal solution. However, it's not as simple as just spreading the word and waiting for parents to come flocking to your door. Childcare is a highly regulated sector and the checks and systems in place to protect children are rigorous and may at times seem overwhelming. This guide will help you make an informed decision about whether child minding is really the right option for you. It provides step-by-step information on the application process and practical tips for setting up your business. This comprehensive guide will steer you through the application process in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. There is clear information on what forms you have to fill in; how to submit them; the checks that will be made on you and members of your family; the requirements for your home and even how to stop the application if you change your mind. Then there's plenty of practical advice on how to advertise your services, how to set up agreements with parents; how you will be inspected and the day-to-day running of your service. The opportunities for future training and the different types of careers open to childminders are also explored.