Becoming a Childminder ADVICE NEEDED PLEASE!!

webbie

Hi consnmattsmum

I think because some minders have spaces does not always mean there is not enough enquiries - an awful lot depends on prospective parents first impressions when they meet a childminder as to whether they choose them.

For example - there is one minder locally who smokes - not in the house, but you can smell it on her. That's fine - that's her choice - but not the choice of non-smoking parents - and she always has spaces.

Another one pushes a baby around with no hat/coat,gloves on - and it's January!! I would really hate that to be my child - and it's something that people notice and comment on - and most people choose a childminder with some kind of recommendation.

My advice would be think what hours you want to do - and advertise them. Eg. i work term-time only. I once asked for a postcard of details to be put in the staffroom of the local schools. I had six enquiries within a week!!

LARRIL

I have been childminding for 8 years now. Find it exceptionally rewarding but physically and emotionally draining at times too. I live in Northern Ireland and have not received a bean in grants or assistance towards the costs involved in childcare. At the moment I am running at full capacity and have 8 children in the house most days. For this reason now I need to purchase a 8/9 seater vehicle, to allow for school runs. The vehicle is expensive at £18995 inclusive of VAT. I am not sure about the VAT issue with childminding - I know we cannot charge VAT on childcare but does that mean we do not have to pay it for a childcare business expense ? Very confused about this and cannot find any info out there regarding this. Hope someone out there can help.

Ta