Choosing a childminder can take a little time, but once you find the right person they can become like part of the family - many children stay with the same childminder for years.

Childminders work from their own home, and are registered and inspected by Ofsted to ensure they meet national standards of care. To become registered, a childminder must go through police and health checks, have their home inspected regularly by Ofsted, and undertake courses in childminding and first aid. Anyone over the age of 16 living in the household is also police checked.

Registered childminders can look after six children up to the age of eight, with no more than three under-five at any one time, although some exceptions can be made for siblings if approved by Ofsted.

They are self-employed and choose their own working hours, often set around their own family schedule, and may (or may not) agree to nursery and school pick-ups as part of their routine. Most registered childminders will expect payment in advance and are likely to charge a retainer fee for holidays.

How to find a childminder

Finding a childminder that suits your hours, bonds with your child (and you), and has a vacancy can be more difficult than it sounds, so give yourself plenty of time. Start by asking around. Word of mouth is a great way to find local childminders, and you've got the added bonus of knowing they come recommended. Friends, family or your health visitor may all be able to help. But trust your own judgement, and remember that what worked for your neighbour might not work for you.

For a list of registered childminders in your area, contact your local Family Information Service. The National Childminding Association has some useful information for parents, with advice on choosing and paying for childcare.

What to ask a childminder

Your child will be spending their days in a whole new environment, and you will need to ask certain questions to help put your mind at ease. Here are a few things to ask when choosing a childminder.

• Most childminders will offer to show you their registration certificate and latest inspection report, but if not, ask. Reports of inspections are also available from Ofsted.
• What training do they have? Ask to see certificates and references.
• Ask to look around the home and garden and make sure you see where your child will eat, sleep and play. Make sure you are satisfied with hygiene and safety standards and that there are plenty of toys and books in a good condition.
• What do their fees include? Check whether meals are provided and whether you will be expected to pay for extras such as outings or snacks.
• What other children will your little one be playing with? Will they get a good balance of social interaction and one-to-one care?
• How will they discipline your child? Will all children (including their own) be treated equally?
• What is a typical meal? Will your child get a balanced diet? What is their approach to sweets or treats?
• How to they organise their day? What kind of activities will your child be included in?
• Are they happy to do a few trial shifts, or be flexible while your child is settling in?
• What will they do when your child is sick? Caring for sick children often isn't part of the deal, so you may well be expected to keep your child at home.
• Observe the other children at play. Are they happy? How does the childminder interact with them?

Childminder pros and cons

Pros

• Care in a home environment.
• Ofsted registered and police-checked.
• First aid trained.
• Less expensive than nannies.
• Your child will interact with others their own age.

Cons

• Your child will have to fit in with the childminder's routine.
• Young babies may get one to one attention, if they are caring for older children too.
• Babies need time to adjust to new surroundings.
• May not be flexible about working hours or doing nursery pick-ups.
• Limits on looking after your child when sick.