Working with your childminder
Starting out on a business-like footing is essential for a
successful childminding arrangement.
Contract
Having a properly written and signed contract
is vital. It should clearly set out:
- the hours your child will be cared for
- the fee the childminder will charge for their service
- details of any additional charges
- details such as holiday arrangements
- what to do if the childminder or you are sick
- the retainer fee or deposit
- the settling-in period.
You and the childminder should spend time reading the contract
together carefully before signing. Note a date on which to review
the contract – usually every six to 12 months. You will need to
sign a separate contract for each child, as even children from the
same family may have different circumstances and requirements.
Best business
Your childminder is a childcare professional – even if they feel
like a member of the family. Remember that they are running a
business and are counting on you to pay them on time, to keep to
the daily arrival and collection times and to let them know of any
changes that might occur.
It’s good to talk!
Make time for regular chats with your childminder – daily or
weekly. It’s a great opportunity to find out how your child is
getting on and to ensure that you’re all still happy with the
childminding arrangement.
Many childminders use a journal to
keep notes about what the child has done during the day, including
details of nappy changes, food they’ve eaten and naps they’ve
taken.
You can use this journal, too, to keep your childminder
informed. For example, noting in the journal that you and your
child have just read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” for the first
time will let the childminder explore the story with the child
during the childminding day.