NCT First steps newslettersummer17 | Page 21

A big factor in deciding on childcare will, of course, also be costs
It would also be helpful to think about holidays and whether your choice of childcare is available all year round.
Is your childcare flexible? Do you need it to be?
Will your child be taken care of if your working day overruns?
Will you be penalised if you take your child out to go on holiday?
Will the chosen method of childcare be offered all year round?
Would you be expected to coordinate your holidays with your childminder?
If your baby is sick, what arrangements do you have in place?
If the childminder is sick what will happen?
Choosing the right childcare for you and your children will need some time and attention. It ' s definitely worth thinking through all of your options to make sure you make the best choice for your family.
What is the staff turnover?
What is the ratio of carer to children? For children aged two years and under, it should be no less than one adult to three children.
Has your carer completed a course in baby first aid?
How frequently are environmental risks assessed?
What are the sleeping arrangements and how are they monitored?
How will you be kept informed on your baby’ s progress?
If / when a childminder takes the children outside for a walk, to the park, etc, how does she / he ensure safety of them all?
For more information on Childcare providers in Enfield please visit Informed Families as they can provide a list of registered childcare providers.