What is a Childminder?

A childminder is a childcare professional who cares for children in a home-from-home environment, usually in much smaller groups than you would find in a nursery.

For young children, this can mean something very special: they are cared for by the same familiar person each day, in a setting where they can build a secure and trusting relationship and truly feel that they belong.

Children have the opportunity to experience everyday family life while still benefiting from professional early-years care, learning and development.

A Smaller, More Personal Setting

One of the things I love most about childminding is being able to really know each child as an individual.

Because I care for a small group, I can get to know their personalities, interests, routines and little quirks. I can follow their development closely and adapt our days to what they need — whether that’s cuddles and reassurance, time outdoors, a favourite story, messy play or simply some quiet time.

Children also benefit from spending time with different ages, much like siblings in a family. They learn to share, communicate, help one another and form close friendships.

Learning Through Everyday Life

Registered childminders provide much more than childcare.

For children in the early years, learning and development are supported through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

But learning doesn’t have to mean sitting at a table or even beautifully set tuff trays doing structured activities.

It happens everywhere.

It happens while we bake, get dressed, count the steps, look for bugs, visit the library, collect shells at the beach, sing songs, share stories, plant seeds, make friends and explore our community.

These everyday experiences help children develop confidence, independence, communication, curiosity and the practical skills they need for life and eventually school.

Professional Care in a Family Home

As an Ofsted-registered childminder, I have professional responsibilities for safeguarding, training, first aid, ongoing development and providing a safe and suitable environment for the children in my care.

But although my setting is a professional childcare provision, I never want it to feel institutional.

I want children to walk through my door and feel comfortable, secure and welcomed.

It is childcare — but it should also feel like home.