Childminder checklist: find the right childminder

The checklist for childminders gives you an overview of the most important questions you should ask yourself when looking for the right childminder. You will be able to answer some of them during the tour of the premises and others in conversation with her.

Residence of the childminder

• Are the premises of your childminder close to where you live because it is important to you to take your child to her on foot? Or do relatives or friends live nearby in case something should happen?

care time

• For how long and to what extent do you need care? Only for a short or a long time? Full day or half day? For how many and which days of the week?

personality of the childminder

• How does the childminder structure her day with the children? What activities does she plan to do with the children?
• How is she structuring the period of acclimatization?
• Does she engage with the children and make an effort to recognize their needs? How does she approach your child? How does she respond to children when they are restless or crying?
• Is she strict or not? Does she have similar ideas about rules that also apply in your home? Can you talk openly with her about parenting goals, even if you have different opinions?
• Is the childminder “certified” by the youth welfare office ?

premises

• Are the rooms furnished and equipped in such a way that your child will feel comfortable there?
• Are there enough beds so that the children can take a nap in peace and quiet?
• Are there enough retreats for your child?
• Are there enough toys that are appropriate for your child’s age?
• Are there age-appropriate handicraft materials, musical instruments or a music system on the premises for singing and dancing together?
• Is it possible to give your child their own toys? How is this handled?
• Are there opportunities to play outside, for example in the garden or in the sandbox?

security

• Is the apartment sufficiently secured so that your child cannot injure itself? Does the childminder have liability insurance that covers any damage?

The environment

• Are there parks, playgrounds or a forest area nearby for small trips?

contract and costs

• Is there a childcare contract? You can read about the points such a contract should contain in our article “ Daycare: Tips on the contract ”.
• What happens if the childminder is ill or has an accident? Do you have to provide alternative care yourself?
• How long is the trial period? What right of termination is agreed for this? How will it be regulated afterwards?
• Are advance payments withheld upon termination? What are reasons for termination?
• What are the costs for the childminder ? What are the payment terms? Is there an hourly rate, a weekly flat rate or a monthly wage? Are diapers and food included in the price or are they extra?