Registered childminders provide flexible home-based childcare in a family environment. To be registered with OFSTED they are inspected annually to ensure they meet or exceed The National Standards. Childminders and all other members of their household over the age of 16 have also had checks carried out by the Criminal Records Bureau to ensure they are suitable persons to care for children.
Many parents prefer their children or babies to be in a home setting rather than the more institutional environment of a nursery. The small numbers of children with a childminder means that there can be more flexibility around meal times, sleep times and planned activities. Hours can also be far more flexible than those of a nursery.
There is no set fee for the services of a registered childminder and they can vary greatly depending on the area and service provided. Fees usually compare favourably with local nurseries and are therefore a cost effective option.
All childminders are different, and parents can choose the one they find most suitable for themselves and their child. Parents have the satisfaction of knowing that both they and their child will be forming a relationship with one carer.
Many childminders are members of the National Childminding Association. All childminder members must accept and follow the Quality Standards, guidelines for good practice.
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