Becoming a childminder

Childminding demands a variety of skills - you must be able to provide a reliable, high quality service that contributes to the development and education of children by:

• providing stimulating play activities
• ensuring that children enjoy a safe environment
• working in partnership with parents

Childminding is a business

As a childminder you are self-employed. You need to be able to:

• develop a friendly yet business-like relationship with the parents of the children you care for
• negotiate written contracts so that everyone is clear about arrangements
• take a professional approach, demonstrating commitment and reliability
• keep proper attendance, safety and financial records
• organise your own tax and national insurance

Anyone providing a childcare service in their home must be registered by  The Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED)

Childminding pre-registration briefing sessions are held regularly  throughout Camden. They are designed to help you decide whether childminding is for you.

The sessions will provide information on:

• Ofsted registration process
• early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• training requirements
• preparing for your Ofsted registration visit
• support and advice from Camden

 If you are interested in becoming a childminder please contact the Family Information Service

• OFSTED responsibility for registering and inspecting childcare