How to choose a childminder

Making the decision to leave your precious offspring with another caregiver is one that faces millions of parents around the world each day. Unlike in the past when couples basked in the security and assistance of the extended family, modern family units can be quite isolated when it comes to having an extra pair of hands to help with a new arrival.

‘Finding someone to share the care of your child is one of the most important steps you will take in your role as a parent,' according to the Cork County Childcare Committee in its booklet Choosing Childminders- A Guide for Parents.

It adds ‘Taking time, being thorough and giving much thought to finding the right Childminder is essential to the process’. But how do you find the most suitable individual that you are satisfied with to entrust the care of your child?

The options currently available are to:

Contact your local health board for a list of notified Childminders

Contact local childcare committees for support

Listen to the recommendations of friends, neighbours and family

Reply to childminders advertisements

Place an advertisement in your local area

If possible you should have a list of questions and issues to put to the Childminder that will help you make your choice.
The following should be taken into account when choosing a childminder:

Does the childminder relate well to children?
What childcare experience does the childminder have?
Will they welcome your child into their family?
Will the childminder provide equal opportunities?
Is the childminder a good listener?
Can you visit unexpectedly while your child is being minded?
Do you feel free to talk and express your feelings with your childminder?
Will the childminder keep written records?
What will happen if your child becomes ill?
How will the childminder promote positive behaviour?
How many other children will the childminder be caring for?
Will the childminder have insurance cover?
Can the childminder provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment?
What are the sleeping arrangements for the children?
What about outings?
Who else shares the home of the childminder?
Will the children be supervised at all times?
What emergency plans are in place?
Has the childminder been in contact with the local Childcare Committee?

IT is also very imortant that parents value the role of their Childminder and recognise the professional service they provide. Remeber they are professionals, offering a professional service.

Louise Geaney is a freelance journalist and editor of the website www.go-mums.com which hosts Ireland's podcast show for parents. The mum of one specialises in the areas of health, parenting, lifestyle and human interest.

Article Source: http://greatarticlesformoms.com

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