Setting up and managing your childminding business can sometimes be a little tricky. That’s why we’ve spoken to the childminding community to clear up your queries, bust some of those pesky childminding myths, and share some top tips to help you grow your childminding business.
We’d love to hear from you! If you’d like to share your childminding advice with us, don’t hesitate to drop us a message via the chatbot!
1) What would be your no.1 tip for a childminder just starting out?
“Sometimes parents do try and bend the rules, so make sure you are strong and stick to your arranged contract from the very beginning” (Kelly, 52)
“Set your stall out straight away, adopt a payment upfront policy ‘No pay, No play’. Be totally transparent with parents.” (Fiona, 44)
“Go with the flow and don’t plan too much. Get to know your children’s interests rather than plan for things they might not be interested in” (Keeli, 30)
2) How do you best manage your finances?
“I use an online tool, Babysdays for everything. I make sure that at the end of the week I record my expenses, this makes it a lot easier to manage when it comes to declaring my taxes down the line” (Marie, 23)
“I use quick books, a payroll provider, and an accountant. It makes my life easier.” (Fiona, 44)
“I use babysdays which tracks everything I need” (Keeli, 30)
3) How do you market your business?
“When starting out, make sure you market yourself across social media and online childcare platforms. This is particularly useful when getting your first clients. Once you are more established, word of mouth makes it easier to find parents looking for childcare” (Sharon, 34)
“I would say to be realistic with your expectations at the beginning. It takes time to grow the number of children you take care of, so keep a positive attitude and spread the word where you can! I used schools, facebook and online childcare platforms.” (Amy, 36)
“It is key to remember that once you have your first children, the work doesn’t stop there. Marketing is a continual process, as the children, you look after won’t stay with you forever” (Jake, 44)
“Use social media, childcare platforms, take flyers to preschools, schools, toddler groups, and local cafes.” (Fiona, 44)
4) What training providers did you use when registering as a childminder?
“The first thing I did was get in touch with my Local Authority, they helped clarify which courses were accepted in my area” (Kelly, 52)
“I used Tiger Lily for First Aid and Pacey for my childcare training” (Holly, 30)
“For first aid, I used Tiger Lily. For childcare training, I used Educare, and One Education. I suggest checking with your Local Authority before registering for any courses” (Fiona, 44)
5) How do you prepare for an Ofsted visit?
“Ofsted is a little daunting, I won’t lie. Always be up to date with your legal requirements. Know your EYFS, have your paperwork to hand, and know your children. If you are organised, it is nothing to worry about” (Marie, 23)
“Be on top of all paperwork and possibly reread things around safeguarding” (Keeli, 30)
“If you are already practicing as a childminder, everything will already be in place. Remember to prioritise safety, for example remembering to take your key out of the door. Make an active and natural effort to constantly engage the children” (Fiona, 44)
6) What are your top tips on Ofsted Registration?
“Be yourself, be honest and know your safeguarding information” (Fiona, 44)
“Be patient with the process, it’s worth it in the end!” (Marie, 23)
“Get going as soon as possible. Try to get your documents together quickly as Ofsted can take a couple of months to confirm your registration” (Amber, 29)
“It’s not difficult, the new website portal allows you to follow the steps quite easily. There is a handy Ofsted Facebook Page which helps.” (Emma, 25)
At Yoopies, we know your childminding business is important to you. That’s why we are here every step of the way of your registration to ensure you are able to get your business up and running with ease. Once you have your business up and running, you are able to use the Yoopies for free to find your first clients simply and quickly. With our handy postcode tool, you’ll be able to easily get in touch with families in need of a childminder near you.