|
|
|
How did professional registered childminding start?
Once upon a time the traditional family was one where the father went to work
and the mother stayed at home to raise the children. That was then. Today
society has moved on and the family unit has become a lot more diverse and its
needs and ambitions have changed dramatically.
A combination of financial needs and the opportunity and desire for woman to
work outside of the family unit have created a great demand for childcare
services. This need has driven and shaped childcare provision in the United
Kingdom and as a consequence the role of childminding has moved on from one
where mums looked after the neighbour's children for a few hours, to one that
has developed into a serious professional career for both woman and men.
Registered childminding is not just a job. For many it is a full time
professional career, allowing individuals to offer childcare services to
parents using their own home as their business base.
Quite rightly it was recognised that the provision of childcare services should
be regulated and monitored, and as a consequence childminders became
registered, the registration certifying that they worked within the required
statutory laws and operated using guiding principles that ensured a child’s
well being and development.
What does ‘registered’ mean?
The law states that all childminders must be registered. This means that the
relevant governing body for England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland has
approved each and every childminding operation. For further information
regarding the various registered childminding support organisations please
follow the links below:
Also, if registered, your childminder will...
-
have regular home inspections to ensure the premises, on which childcare is
undertaken, is safe, secure and suitable for young children.
-
be insured. A registered childminder will have the necessary insurance required
to undertake childcare services.
-
have been personally checked by the criminal records bureau along with any
other adult members of the family.
-
have passed the required first aid training courses to enable the provision of
treatment in an emergency.
-
have taken the required training courses as laid down by the relevant governing
bodies.
What hours do registered childminders work?
It is up to each registered childminder as to the number of hours they work as
they are all self employed.
Some work between 8am to 6pm while others are more than willing to take
children earlier and work later. Some will work weekends while others will look
after children overnight if your job requires you to work a night shift. Some
registered childminders offer a before and after school service, delivering and
collecting your child on your behalf, continuing to mind your child until you
finish work.
Hours worked and terms and conditions are set by each childminder, so try and
find one which suits your particular needs.
A personalised service for your child
Registered childminders can offer the children in their care a lot more
personal attention due to the small numbers cared for. This is opposed to
nurseries or kids' clubs where the carer to children ratio can be a lot
different. A smaller personalised service means that your child’s personal
requirements can be met including sleeping, toilet training, homework, etc.
Constant long-term care
You will find many childminders look after children from their first year right
through to their teens. As you would expect a relationship is quickly formed
between the childminder and child and this flourishes over the years. Childcare
stability is essential and this something, which can be found with registered
childminding care.
Flexibility
You will often find that because a registered childminder works from home they
can be a lot more flexible in their arrangements with you, whether this be in
drop off and collection arrangements, help with homework, monitoring of your
child’s daily activity or their sleeping preferences. As a childminder works
from home they can offer your child the reassuring ‘home-like’ atmosphere,
which is very essential during their early years.
Brothers & sisters
Childminders can look after children of all ages. Because of this, they
generally can accommodate older or younger siblings which, as well as making
life easier for you, helps retain the family bond.
What should I ask a registered childminder when I
visit them?
The best way to really understand the care a registered childminder offers, is
to visit them in their place of work with your child. Before visiting a
registered childminder review and print the "Questions
to ask a Registered Childminder" list.
Using this you can review the childminder's operation and how the childminder
interacts with you, your child and any other children in their care.
Typical Standards
Also review, print and take along a list of
typical standards, which registered childminders work to. Discuss how
these guide the childminder's operation.
|
|
|