Childminders - what is a reasonable retainer fee?

Tirian

Can't do nurseries as we both commute by public transport 60-90 mins each, and can't take the risk of getting nursery fines of £100+ if the train's delayed by 10 mins.

Tirian

Reggie_Rebel wrote: »

Read your posts again, they read like you are being forced to pay this fee so that you carry on your life as before and having a child is a hinderance. It doesn't work like that, as you will soon find out.

Embrace the fact that a child will change your life rather than hinder it and you will enjoy your child more, your child may even be happier.

You have choices, make them and stop moaning

You certainly know how to make assumptions about people, don't you?

Being shocked at an unexpected demand for £1000 doesn't translate to seeing a child as a hinderance. And don't be surprised if I find it offensive if you try to tell me how I see my child.

Maybe £1000s fall out of the sky for you. They don't for everyone I'm afraid.

newcook

is there a nursery near to where one of you works that would be more suitable for your times?

you may also find in your childminders contract that she will also charge extra if you are late

thatgirlsam

Tirian wrote: »

Can't do nurseries as we both commute by public transport 60-90 mins each, and can't take the risk of getting nursery fines of £100+ if the train's delayed by 10 mins.

Childcare can be an absolute nightmare can't it!

If you need to secure a place with a childminder then it looks like you will have to stump up

All the happy years your child will spend with his/her minder will be worth its weight in gold

We loved our childminder, she became like part of the family, she spent a few years taking care of my babies - she deserved every penny

They look after the most precious thing in your life so try not to begrudge the money they cost

swingaloo

Seems to me that you are not going to be happy with this childminder as already you are complaining about her terms. If this comes across to her then there are going to be ill feelings on both sides and for your childs sake thats the last thing you want.

bungle4by4

if you like the childminder, and want her services, then you will have to pay. But i would be using her services, you will need a settling in period, and the sooner that baby get used to a different face every day the better.

good luck with it

bungle4by4

Reggie_Rebel wrote: »

Read your posts again, they read like you are being forced to pay this fee so that you carry on your life as before and having a child is a hinderance. It doesn't work like that, as you will soon find out.

Embrace the fact that a child will change your life rather than hinder it and you will enjoy your child more, your child may even be happier.

You have choices, make them and stop moaning

im sorry, thats a rediculous statement. i think you have the OP completely out of context.

Reggie_Rebel

Tirian wrote: »

You certainly know how to make assumptions about people, don't you?

Being shocked at an unexpected demand for £1000 doesn't translate to seeing a child as a hinderance. And don't be surprised if I find it offensive if you try to tell me how I see my child.

Maybe £1000s fall out of the sky for you. They don't for everyone I'm afraid.

I've made no assumptions at all. As mentioned if you want a good one you'll have to stump up the cash.

Reggie_Rebel

bungle4by4 wrote: »

im sorry, thats a rediculous statement. i think you have the OP completely out of context.

Nothing ridiculous about it at all, the OP has a choice to make. they need to make it and not complain about it.

Nothing out of context at all.

CH27

Do you feel comfortable with the childminder?
How did your child take to her?

If all was positive pay up & thank your lucky stars you've found a good childminder.

Then remember she has a living to earn & a reputation to protect.

Childcare is costly but I assume you budgeted for it before starting a family.