How often do you work?
3 days a week, 8am-5.30pm
How does the job fit around your family life?
Frank is at pre-school 5 mornings a week. Matty - the little 7 month old I childmind, arrives at 8am, I get the three children ready to walk down to school - the two youngest in the double buggy and Frank on the Kiddy board. Normally take the little ones to playgroup or to the local park. Pick Frank up at 11.45 - walk home and have lunch. The two little ones have their lunchtime naps and I get to spend some time with Frank. Afternoons are normally spent in the park or with friends. Tea time is a mad rush getting everyone sorted out, washing Matty's bottles and making sure he is ready for when he is picked up
How much time do you commit?
I have Matty three days a week from 8am-5.30pm. It is a long day but works as my two are up at 6ish anyway most days - so it's not like I miss the lie-in!
Where do you carry out your work?
In my own flat
How much space do you have?
We have a 2 bedroom flat with a garden. As the inside space isn't huge I like to try and take the children out as much as possible so we don't get stir-crazy
Do you need a car?
I feel that living in Manchester its essential for me to get the three of them around to places further than our local park, playgroup or school walk. Logistically I couldn't manage the three of them on a bus or train. However for someone thinking of minding older children a car might not be crucial
Do you advertise?
I didn't have to. There is high demand for childminders in my area. I was recommended to Matty's Mum by a friend who is a childminder herself
How did you hear about the job?
From the Children's Information Service
Do you get support/training?
You go on a Childminder and a first aid training course and there is support available in the form of the National Childminding Association www.ncma.org.uk
Are there any downsides to the role?
Only that at times it can get very stressful. If you are looking after children of quite varied ages their needs will all be very different - managing this is the hardest part of the job...as well as the pressure to be organised
Would you recommend this opportunity to other Mums?
Yes definitely