Hi all, I was just wondering if anyone could tell me what the standard hourly rate of childminders in Sheffield is.

My son is 5 years old and hopefully when we move in the near distant future to Sheffield I want some idea of what to expect.

Also can anyone tell me the names of recommended Primary schools in Sheffield, I aint bothered about areas as yet as I will cross that bridge when I came to it I just want to get an idea on what schools are you recommend then when it comes to choosing a new home I can try and base it around the area of the school.

Cheers

Jo

Hi Jo

You could try contacting the Sheffield Childrens Information Service on 01142756699 or got to their website HERE (http://www.childrenfirst.org.uk/)

CIS is a really good service that can give you information on anything to do with kids, childminders, schools, support groups etc.

Hope that helps.

By the way, I can reccommend Malin Bridge School ....... excellent!!

Wow thanks hun, that was interesting stuff to read, I am amazed at how little they charge in Sheffield my childminder charges me a small fortune.

I am quite shocked that childminders have no right to holiday pay because I still paid mine and she didnt tell me any different, crafty cow.

I will look into the school you recommended.

Thanks again

Jo

Childminders and holiday pay is a thorny issue. We agreed with ours that if we were on holiday - my wife is a schoolteacher - we'd still pay her. So she got paid all through the Christmas and Easter holidays - another crafty cow!

We also agreed that if *she* was on holiday we wouldn't pay her. Fair enough - except when she upped and went to Florida for 2 weeks (not doing badly, then, is she?) in our Easter break. She demanded to be paid under the arrangement above because we had chosen this holiday time, not her. Does this seem reasonable? Surely the underlying assumption behind being paid in the holidays is that she should be available to childmind should emergency or other need arise - and she wasn't going to be doing that in flipping Florida, was she?!

Primary schools - hmm, another can of worms! There are, as you might expect in a big city, schools which are excellent, schools which are dreadful and everything in between. The house prices can be plotted on a graph in almost exact correlation with the school league table results. :-) Don't pay too much attention to league tables. Talk to people and visit schools instead.

What is it with child care, these people have us by the balls.

I'm currently waiting for Sheffield council to get back to me in regards to my housing register application then I can start bidding on properties and I will be asking people in this forum about their opinons of the schools.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed it works out as soon as because I'm so desprate to get into Sheffield, its such a fantastic place.

Regards

Joanne

Perhaps too late for any one to read this - however - a good child minder is worth his/her weight in gold

Hi there, both my boys (now 6 and 8) went to halfway infant school even though we dont live there, it was brilliant, always putting the kids first with heaps of activity all of the time, I also know an excellent child minder who lives in Eckington.

I agree Paul, my present childminder is definetly worth her weight in gold and I will give my childminder credit where credit is due as she does a great job where looking after my son is concerned.

My only issue with childcare professionals is purely around the financial circumstances as where I live a childminder can charge a maximum of £7 per hour which you have to agree is totally extortionate.

Tax credits only pay a porportion towards childcare charges which helps some but not alot.

I will second Fetish Fairy's recommendation on Malin Bridge - it is the school I am trying to keep my kids in!

Moon

Thanks Squashie - regarding pay - how much is a cleaner paid in your area? Take my point?

I know some brilliant registered child carers if anyone needs one

My son goes to Halfway Infant school and its wonderful excellant Ofsted inspection report. I myself am a Nursery Nurse so understand how hard child minders have to work, I only wish I got paid £7.00ph

carfield Primary and Junior school is a good one, at meersbrook.

There are some really good primary schools i n Sheffield, better than the senior schools.
Dont forget, if you have kids, that you have to consder both.
Lydgate school at Crosspool is a very good one.

I'll go with espadrille on Carfield. Fabulous school. My little'un has done wonders at that school. Nothing but praise for them there.

Hi Jo

I am a childminder and my hourly rate is £2.50 and sometimes depending on the hours you work and if you are eligible you can claim part back from working family tax credits. My little boy used to go to a childminder 30 hours a week and i got the tax credits and paid a small contribution myself


Originally posted by Squashie28
Hi all, I was just wondering if anyone could tell me what the standard hourly rate of childminders in Sheffield is.

My son is 5 years old and hopefully when we move in the near distant future to Sheffield I want some idea of what to expect.

Also can anyone tell me the names of recommended Primary schools in Sheffield, I aint bothered about areas as yet as I will cross that bridge when I came to it I just want to get an idea on what schools are you recommend then when it comes to choosing a new home I can try and base it around the area of the school.

Cheers

Jo

I'd recommend Westways Primary School in Crookes. It also has an after school club that runs until 6pm which is very useful for working parents - cost is about £5.50 per day.

Thanks for your responses guys, that was really helpful.

Im still trying to move, not had much success though.

Its really important to me to find an area near a decent school because I want my son to have continued support for his special needs, I really want to get into the Hunters Bar area as I have heard the schools around this area are excellent.

I doubt very much I will be moving anytime soon though which is frustrating as hell.

Never Mind I will continue trying.

Jo

I'd tend to advise Crookes over Hunters Bar. IMHO you'll get better VFM. Crookes houses tend to be bigger for same £.

Plus usually a better view.

anyone tell us how much it cost to have a child minder 1/2 days a week in the s12 area
thanks

Sorry I can't help you with your request, but I'm going to move this to the Parenting group (cos they're helpful souls in there!).

hiya
i pay £2.50 an hour plus cost of lunch (abou 50p a day) when my daughter is there or else if is a baby/toddler send your own

On my training course in childminding we were advised that prices are normally in the region of £2.50 - £3.80 per hour, depending how uppercrust the area is.

Could anyone recommend a good childminder in S2 or surrounding areas? I'm asking for a friend who lives in the Norfolk Park area :) :help:

Hello

Just wondered if anyone knows of any good childminders in the waterthorpe/crystal peaks/beighton area? We have put our little one in a nursery at the moment, it is fine but am just wondering whether a childminder would have been a better option. We did look into childminders at the time, but most of the good ones were booked up, and we didn't like the one we met, so wondered if anyone has anyone they can recommend?

Hi,

The Childrens Information Centre (http://www.sheffieldchildrenfirst.org.uk/)have a list of childminders and should be able to help.

or what about a nanny? nannies can be good and work from your home in many ways they do the things you would do at home with your little one and i personally think its a better option, Nannies who are registired, are the ones you can claim tax credits towards childminding costs

yes the childrens information is good i am also looking for a childminder in that area what has been wrong with the ones you have seen so far ?

My daughter is looking for baby-sitting jobs in or around S10. She is 15 (16 in May) and has worked in a nursery for her work experience last year.

In my opinion she is very mature and responsible, and can provide references from other parents she has sat for.

I have a 13 month old grand-daughter so she is experience with babies, and her work experience was with children up to 5.

She is willing to undertake regular or one off jobs and anyone interested can pm me with any questions.

Thank you for taking time to read this post.

Nanny Available Tues And Thurs All Day Also Wed And Fri Mornings
Excellent References Available, Over 10 Years Experience With Newborn To Age 14 Children.
Pm Me For More Information If You Are Interested
Thanks
Rebecca

I am avaliable to babysit week nights and weekends i have my own transport so can travel within reasonable distance of S8. I am a Qualified Early Years Practitioner who is currently a bit skint! Have a recent CRB and can provide References and Certificates. But don't panic i don't cost the earth! if you'd like more info PM me and i'll get in touch with you.

Look forward to hearing from you


Laura

Hi, can someone tell me what I should pay for babysitting for a 3 month baby?

Can't be much help on this - we don't use babysitters but I think it would be worth considering the age and experience of the person involved.
The minimum wage varies according to age, so if you had a 17 year old babysitting I would undercut the minimum wage for that age, after all it's not generally a taxable job and normally only occasional work.
If it's a 20 year old the minimum wage is higher and their expectations might be too.
Otherwise - hopefully someone who actually pays a babysitter can help you more.

Hi, can someone tell me what I should pay for babysitting for a 3 month baby?

Lotti off here used to babysit for me., it was about £2.50/£3 an hour i think! was over a year ago. If you are looking for reliable babysitter i would fully recommend her:thumbsup: :thumbsup: i would still be using her but she refuses to drive the 250 miles for the night:hihi: :hihi:

Hi i am 16 on my mums forum, i am really reliable and need money can luk after kids well.wud be askin 2.50 hour??if u need any1:)

HI There
My partner has suggested i mention my availability on here
I am a registered Childminder accepting children in the Swallownest, Aughton and Aston areas. I have just 1 place available at present

I also drop off and collect children from selected schools as well.

I am registered with Ofsted and the National Childminding Association and I have a current CRB check, excellent references etc. Fully certified in all aspects of Health and Safety and First Aid.

Please feel free to PM me for more details.I am based off The Chase at Aston

Thanks

Samantha

Hi,
Just making initial enquiries as to any childminders in the S6/S10 Malin Bridge, Hillsborough, Crookes areas ?
Any recommendations ?
Thanks:)

The childrens information service will have a list you can go through. A couple of S6 childminders are on the forum and will no doubt be making themselves known. Also I can't finish this post without asking if you had considered our day care at Little Winners :)

Thanks for your response fox20thc just looking at our options at the moment but will take note of Little Winners

Welcome to the parenting group (and the Forum, of course), ABSTAR :)

Thank you cosywolf, glad to be part of the group and the Forum !

Hi,
Just making initial enquiries as to any childminders in the S6/S10 Malin Bridge, Hillsborough, Crookes areas ?
Any recommendations ?
Thanks:)
Hi
and welcome!
My little boy goes to Little W baby room and i have to say they are out of this world, really loving environment, friendly staff and safe premises-so they get the thumbs up from me for babies!

Hi NatalieSheff
Thanks for your reply, where is Little W baby room and do you have a contact number for them please ?
Another one to add to my list !

Hi There

Im new to this site so please be patient with me!!

Im 36 weeks pregnant and am looking for childcare in the s12 area or Sheffield.

So far ive come up with Birley Community Nursery, Fairmount, and Hackenthorpe Hall.

Am going to see them later this week but just thought would ask if anyone knows any of these and what do you think. Please dont hold back!!

Am so worrired about making the wrong decision!!!!

Thank you!!

it might be worth you contacting the children's information service (google the number) - that's how i found our childcare. you tell them what you're after, and they send a list of nurseries/childminders for the postcodes that you're interested in.

before anybody comments (negatively) about any of the places that mel1 has asked about, can i ask people to be careful about what they write - we don't want SF getting in trouble with libellous comments.

bc

edit to add - you should take a quick look at the 'recruiting for childcare' section near the top of the parenting group page.

There are plenty of childminders in the area, also to be found via CIS.
Have sent a pm too.

There's a private nursery next to the Charnock School, I don't know what it is called though or what it is like. It's on Carter Hall Road.

Hi,

just come across your post. My daugter has been at Hackenthorpe Hall nursery since she was 15 months old, shes now 3 and a half and i cant recommend it highly enough. The staff are very caring and knowledgeable and cant do enough to help. They have regular parent evenings where you can go to discuss your childs progress and what they have been doing. You get a sheet at the end of each day telling you what they have done and eaten(all the meals are home cooked and a fantastic variety). There is a huge outdoor play area and they have good equipment and even occassionally a squirrel or two appears for entertainment!.
My daughter can write her own name and loves all the craft and art work and messy play. Really i could go on and on about the things they do. If you have any questions feel free to pm me or give the nursery a ring and arrange to go and have a look as they are always happy for you to go and look round.
Hope this helps.:)

Ps i know live in eckington and travel to take her there as i dont want to move her as i'm so happy with their care

Thank you for that. I went to have alook round last week and did actually get a really good feeling about it. The only thing thats putting me off is other peoples opinion, although i suppose every one likes different things!!

Thanks again

Hi,
Just making initial enquiries as to any childminders in the S6/S10 Malin Bridge, Hillsborough, Crookes areas ?
Any recommendations ?
Thanks:)

CIS are great for anything childcare wise, and I have a great childminder in S6
area, depending on age of child and days needed Im sure she has spaces at moment as a couple of kids just started Nursery. If you want info let me know and will PM her details.

Hi,
I was just wondering if anyone has used this babysitting service? My partner and I are getting married (:D ) and have booked them to babysit in the evening. They sound very professional, are CRB checked and we are going to meet the babysitter first, but just thought I would see if anyone else has used them?

Whay congratulations on the forthcoming nuptuals!
I have never met them although I've interacted on SF with Mr Jubb regarding local children's issues and found him to be very pleasant.

Hi,

I was thinking of changing my career path from working in an office to becoming a childminder.

I dont have any qualifications and would have put this in the job section on this forum but I thought this group would be better to see if anyone on here already does this could tell me what qualifications are needed and have any advice?

Thank you

This might be useful Tatty http://www.ncma.org.uk/
and I know Henrietta has done childminding in the past, she will be able to give you some tips.

however this might also help:

In England, before you can start to care for children under 8 you need to be registered with Ofsted. To become registered you need to:

1. Go to a childminding pre-registration briefing session. This session tells you about becoming a childminder. Find out when the next session is by contacting your local Children's Information Service. You can find its contact details by visiting www.childcarelink.gov.uk


2. Read the National Standards and complete the Ofsted childminding application pack which you will be given at the briefing session.


3. Return the form to your Ofsted regional centre.


4. Use Ofsted's instructions to apply to the Criminal Records Bureau for a disclosure for yourself and anyone else in your home aged over 16.


5. Have an Ofsted home inspection and suitable person interview, based on the National Standards for Childminding.


6. Complete an introductory childminding training course, such as Introduction to Childcare Practice (Home-based), and a first-aid course. You must do this within six months of starting childminding.


7. Pay the £18 registration fee.


8. Receive your registration certificate and start work as a registered childminder!

For more information on registering as a childminder call Ofsted on 0845 601 4771

Hi,

I was thinking of changing my career path from working in an office to becoming a childminder.

I dont have any qualifications and would have put this in the job section on this forum but I thought this group would be better to see if anyone on here already does this could tell me what qualifications are needed and have any advice?

Thank you

Can contact Children's Information Service for any help, advice or support on becoming a childminder. Or Local Childminding Network Team based at Childrens Centre on Palgrave Rd. Tel: 0114 2503060.

Foxhill Forum are currently running NVQ 2 in childcare. Its free and can contact Adam on 0114 231 5522.

Hope this helps XXX

PS only actual training which is essential is First Aid Babies & Toddlers, which can do also at Palgrave for free!!
Registration and CRB checks essential of course ! LOL

Ooops, Foxy pretty much summed it up, should have read her post first> :hihi:

Hi guys,

im currently in the process of applying for jobs with annoying hours but beggars cant be choosers in this day and age. so i was wondering if there were any childminders anyone knew of in the s2 area, im based near prince of wales road. looking for reasonable rates and flexible days and hours.

Many Thanks

My friend Kat is a registered childminder in Heeley. I´m in Spain now until Saturday but when I get back I will post her details.

What do those of you without family close by do for babysitters? We are not originally from Sheffield so don't have family close by and few friends really. We rarely go out together as we can only do that when Grandma comes to visit or we drop our daughter over at Grandma's house in Manchester. Grandma's happy to babysit but it's such a palaver getting there and back that it's a rare occasion.
What do you do?

I am lucky enough to have friends and family available to help - just no money to go anywhere, lol.

A friend of mine in a similar situation to you got a recommendation for a babysitter from a neighbour or someone she'd met at nursery or similar. She spoke to the babysitter's other clients, met with the sitter, and had her round to meet her child before having her babysit. It worked out very well, and she recommended her to me - only I never did need her services.

I believe there are also babysitting agencies you could try, tho again i have no direct experience of them.

What do those of you without family close by do for babysitters? We are not originally from Sheffield so don't have family close by and few friends really. We rarely go out together as we can only do that when Grandma comes to visit or we drop our daughter over at Grandma's house in Manchester. Grandma's happy to babysit but it's such a palaver getting there and back that it's a rare occasion.
What do you do?

We were in similar situation apart from we have friends and family in Sheffield but no one wanted to give up their nights out, fair enough.

We luckily have great babysitters, (two sisters) and they are the daughters of a trusted work colleague. One is 16 and other is 14 so, when we lose one to her social life the other will be of age. Hopefully we wont have the nightmare of finding a trusted sitter for few more years.

Give Sheffield Information Link a call, (CIS) they may have a list of registered and CRB checked babysitters. TEL: 0114 2496378.

Good luck. X

We have this problem. My husbands parents have a very active social life and feel they've raised their children so shouldn't have to give up there free time. The will sit maybe once a year. My mum lives in Glasgow and everytime she's down we make sure we go out somewhere just me and my husband. Same when we go there. 300 miles is a long way for a babysitter to travel!

To be honest in one way I'm dreading having the baby I'm carrying as when my daughter was born (nearly 10 years ago) I lived inGlasgow and had a fantastic family support system. Always someone eager to look after her so I could do the food shopping (we don't drive so was always hard pushing a pram and loading a trolley) Or even so I could have a bath in peace.

I think those new mummies with family close by who are happy to help should let them!

We're in pretty much the same position. With Umbongo on the way soonish it does get frightening, but I'm sure we'll be fine -lots of surrogate family in terms of friends! My parents live in Cambridge, so rather far away, and my sister made the mistake of assuming that they would be very willing babysitters when she had her girls 13 years ago. But Mom was just sooo menopausal and they'd only just got rid of me when i moved out, the very last thing they wanted was babies! I can fully understand this, although my sister didn't. Mom and Dad had their babies in Africa, a full country away from their own family and friends and in pretty different circumstances to what we have become used to.

Anyway, I'm prattling...I was going to ask/suggest the idea of babysitting tokens. My MIL used to use them. You have a pool of people (perhaps from your antenatal/community) that also have children and use tokens to exchange babysitting duties, rather than cash. She said it worked really well, but it does rely on someone being organised and also having a strongish community. We're going to see if anyone on our NCT is interested, or ask our neighbours.

My parents are elderly and far away and my husbands parents live far away. We dont go out...simple.

If your baby goes to nursery/childminder at all, it might be worth asking whether any of the carers might be interested in occasional evenings of babysitting.

Make sure that if you do find a babysitter that you dont' know personally, at the very least get personal references from people that know them. Not all babysitters will have a CRB check as I believe it's fairly expensive, and babysitting isn't exactly lucrative, so you might have to go on instinct and references. I did, and am very pleased with my sitter.

I very rarely go out, i can't afford to pay a babysitter and my parents live far away, i've got used to it, it's just one of those things and it makes the rare occasions that i do get to go out more enjoyable :)

Someone I know was in this situation and she went to a mother & baby group, made good friends with a few other mums there and then they swapped every now and again. Like she would have her friends kids for the night and vice versa. You could try that..but make sure you trust that person! :)

we found a local girl to babysit our daughter. took all the pressure off asking family.
it also meant we could put her to bed and leave her asleep (allegedly) whilst having a night out.

i was in the same position we are not from sheffield and didn't really know anyone in sheffield but i went to baby group with my first baby and found 4 other mums in the same position and we started a babysitting circle and its been fab. That was two years ago and we still do it except we have all just had our 2nd babies so not going out too much at the moment but am looking forward to it again.
I have to say i even enjoy babysitting sometimes none of the babies have ever woken up and you get to sit in peace and quiet and watch telly or read. You can't really stay out too late but we always plan big nights in advance so as one of our mums come to stay better that way as you tend to get a lie in the next morning.

Even if you don't start a baby sitting group its a good idea to go to baby groups as you'll meet other mums who might know someone. Getting out again is really good for you as acouple and a happy mummy and daddy means happy baby.

I came to Sheffield from Scotland 14 years ago and now have 2 children aged 4 and 11, I don't think me and my husband have had a night out on our own since my son was born.:o
Basically every where we go they come as well, either myself and 2 kids or hubby and kids or me on my own with friend while hubby has kids.:loopy:
My family are all still in Scotland and kids have never had a babysiter ever. You just learn to adapt and make the most of family comming to stay.

We don't have babysitters either and ask all the more gingerly because we have twins.
I have a good friend who occasionally comes over with her son and they all play madly together whilst I get housework done, that's abig help.
My parents have the girls every now and then but we haven't had any big nights out in 2 years - well I had one when he was at work and parents babysat until midnight.
I feel reluctant to leave the kids with someone I don't know so I never have. I did look into having a recommended person, a friend of a friend, to babysit but she couldn't really commit.
So, my friend and I have a verbal arrangement to babysit for one another but either my OH is working or hers is and then there's the money - so we haven't manged it yet. We'd probably end up going out together and leaving the fellas with the kids anyway :D

my daughters 6 and a half now, i still dont go out much, ive never had family close to babysit as my parents live down skegness for most of the year, i wont have a babysitter as i wouldnt be able to trust them with my daughter, her father will only have her when i have to work the evening shift, so i stopped going out, my friends stopped asking me out as i kept turning them down. Im ok with it, i mean, i did have my child after all so she is my responsibility, but it is nice now and again to let my hair down and be me for a change, and not mummy

We are the same- not from here, no family here, and whilst we have made non baby friends i didnt have any baby friendly friends. I have joined lots of activites and groups which is good for meeting others, getting support, and recommendations for childcare. We have not yet had a night out, baby 12 weeks, so prob about time we did! Our neighbour has volunteered so we may take them up on it as they are very kind and sensible. The more people you get to know you will be surprised who volunteers!

We're in a similar position too. Usually one of us will go out and the other one stays home - but it means we rarely go out as a couple.

However, so that we can go out together next weekend we're getting a family member over from Manchester to babysit - in exchange for a lovely home made Sunday lunch!

I'm very reluctant to leave babybonny with anyone else, even people I know very well.

We're in a similar position too. Usually one of us will go out and the other one stays home - but it means we rarely go out as a couple.

However, so that we can go out together next weekend we're getting a family member over from Manchester to babysit - in exchange for a lovely home made Sunday lunch!

I'm very reluctant to leave babybonny with anyone else, even people I know very well.

We were the same, our social life as a couple started when DD was 2yrs, and even now I constantly check mobile and insist we are no more than 15mins drive away. The mental responsibility is overwhelming isnt it! :)

Would 50p & a bottle of pop do? Or has it gone up ;-)
Have in mind a 16yr old sixth former who seems keen and her parents are on standby in case she needs help. She is from a family who are not particularly short of cash though I dont suppose this should really affect my decision
What do I offer? :confused:

I pay the 17 yr old that babysits for us £3 an hour, plus a bit more for over midnight.

Vanessa
xx

I pay mine £20 for the first 4 hours, whether we're back early or not, because I don't want someone else to give up their whole evening for no reason. £7.50 per hour after 11pm. I'd rather pay her a bit more than normal as she's reliable, sensible and dependable and I appreciate my nights out an enormous amount. She's 19/20 I believe, and has had quite a bit of babysitting experience. She also drives herself to my house and back - fab. Probably up the pay by 50p per hour in the new year, too.

I look after a 7yr old girl. Her mum gives me £20 initially, but it varies, if she goes out evening til night (6pm til 11pm) it's £20. If she's going out later evening til night (7pm til 1am) she'll give me £20 plus £10 takeaway money. But I stay the night at hers (Shes my friend) if she goes out until say 3am, because of my age and because im pregnant she doesn't like putting me in a taxi at that time. She does however pre-pay a taxi for me to take me from hers to mine, which is usually around £3.50. If I stay the night, she'll give me the £20, £10 takeaway plus a £10 "Sorry I came in so drunk and couldn't walk upstairs" money. She is generous and I would do it just for £20 though, stuff the takeaway money ect.

Although new yrs eve when i've babysat for her i've had her daughter at my house for the night and got between £60-£90 on seperate new yr occasions.

:) Hope this helps.. Gina x

i used to get a fiver a night when i did it.....................ten years ago lol
Havent a clue these days, i never go out *cries* lol

P.S ^ That's not what i expect from her, she offers it me. And sometimes im desperate for the cash so I'm not going to say no! I'd babysit for the 1 child say 6pm til 11pm ish for £10. If there was more kids, and depending on ages I think i'd like a little more. But SamMT if i was after her babysitting i'd offer say £10/child depending on how long your going to be or expect to be. If your only going out for 2 hrs, i'd want about £5/child.

Funny, we were just discussing this today. I would consider £5 per hour to be an average, and it's up to you if you go a bit lower or higher.

I think I would stick to the fiver an hour, myself (which is why I don't usually employ a babysitter - can't afford to have one and go out, lol).

bloody hell!!
i used to get £6 for the night no matter what time they rolled in then £4 taxi home. if i spent the night at theirs i kept my taxi money home. only downside is their eldest kept unsetting my alarm thinking i would stay and play rather than go home the next morning :rant:

it was 10 years go though :rolleyes:

Call me tight, but I think that £5 an hour seems quite a lot for someone still at school. To me there is a big difference between an adult/working person/experienced babysitter & someone still at school & getting help from her parents & is probably babysitting at her house. :confused:

I used to get £5 a night, end of. That too was 10 years ago.

Call me tight, but I think that £5 an hour seems quite a lot for someone still at school. To me there is a big difference between an adult/working person/experienced babysitter & someone still at school & getting help from her parents & is probably babysitting at her house. :confused:

Why not pay her for her own merits, then? Give her a reduced rate for the first few sessions, and if she proves herself to be reliable and useful, get her to babysit at your house and pay her more. Just because she's still at school doesn't mean she won't have buckets of common sense (maybe more than your average adult? You never know), and having her parents as a back up is more than most babysitters have - you should be paying more for that, not less!;)

I used to babysit for a couple two doors down from my mum, I can't remember exactly what they paid me but I always did very well out of it, when it came to going home, even though it was only two doors away, the bloke would always come back with me, make sure I got home safe

Hello,

Nice to speak to all you parenting group, I'm a lurker but dont post seeing as I'm not a parent myself.

The reason I'm bothering you today is that I've just placed an ad in the jobs wanted section(http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=281856) advertising my availability for babysitting but I wondered if I was saying the right things.

So, what do you - as parents- look for in a babysitter? Do I need to make my CRB check the most prominent fact or is experience more important? Also, would stating a specific age group be beneficial?

Sorry for crashing your group a little bit, I just want to do it right.

Tata!

You don't state your rates and your experience. How many children have you looked after before? Ages? References?

hi,

I have a little boy aged 11 months and have been thinking of becoming a childminder, does anyone have any idea of average earnings or how much you can charge per hour? I dont drive so would that bea big problem or could I concentrate on looking after pre school children? Thanks for any help x

You'd probably be best contacting Childrens Info Service for details (275 6699)

But...
The ball park figure for childminders to charge is about £3 per hour - so obviously if you are looking after more than one child at a time, your income will be £3 x Number of kids. As a childminder you are self employed so you can actually set your own rates, but if you charge significantly above everyone else in your area, people are less likely to use you! In some areas there are local childminder groups who all agree to charge the same, and all put their charges up at the same time and by the same amount (but thats obviously a voluntary agreement).

When you become registered you will be told what the maximum number of children you can look after at any one time is, and this usually has conditions to it - such as 1 child under age 1, and 2 other under 5. Your own child will count in these numbers too. (This is only children under 8 - there aren't the same requirements for over 8's)
Not driving wouldn't really be a disadvantage - unless you live somewhere very remote with no public transport!! If you lived near a school and were planning to do school pick ups then you would be able to walk (+ buggies etc). With younger kids, you might consider taking them out (to parks, library, toddler groups etc) and as long as you have some way of getting them there that would be fine.
My own daughter has been out with her childminder in school holidays and loves it when they go out on the bus - cos we don't do it that often, and they get to sit at the front upstairs etc etc!!

Don't know if that helps at all.

Ooh, yes. Thanks, I'll amend that.

You're not crashing, Helly, everyone is welcome (except trolls, of course).

I would want to speak to someone you currently babysit for, probably more than one.

I'd want to know age ranges you are comfortable and have experience with.

I'd want to know you have First Aid, as you've already told us you are CRB (Enhanced?)

I hope that helps :)

Good idea, I forgot about mentioning my first aid and first response courses. Do you think that needs to be on my ad or left until somebody asks?

I'd mention it...

Rates negotiable is probably a good thing, but I'd be fretting already about having some akward discussion about it. I'd probably prefer an average or approximate figure to start with - but that may well just be me and my odd ways.

I'll bear you in mind if I ever have need :)

Thank you, I'd appreciate it.

As for now, I think I need to widen my audience, not even an enquiry as of yet :'(

Try putting it in your signature, as well.

Thanks for your reply, it is very helpful, Im going to find out about doing the course and take it from there:)

I have just had a look at your ad, the only thing I would mention is your offer of babysitting at your house. Things you would have to consider I would imagine would be those that a childminder has to provide, with regards to safety in the home:
ie Child locks, sharp corners, medicene cupboard, glass doors, window locks etc.

Other than that I think you have covered everything.

Tada! That's my signature done. Now if only I posted a wee bit more!

I live at Chapeltown, work at hoyland and want someone to look after 9 month old baby, does anyone know/recommend any good nursries/childminders.
?
thanks

There's Mazehill Nursery on Burncross road - under new (and better!) management!

There's Mazehill Nursery on Burncross road - under new (and better!) management!

Hi, we did have a look there just before christmas, we liked it BUT there were no babies in her age. whether that changes before I dont know. thought it was pricey. and they said someone new was coming in in january. dont know how much it will be now then. do you know??

what about the one near chapletown on the way to barnsley? sorry cant remember the name but its just up past the hesley wood site?

what about the one near chapletown on the way to barnsley? sorry cant remember the name but its just up past the hesley wood site?

Hi, I phoned them up, is it called Acorn. something like that. anyway, they only take children from 2 years old. I bet it is pricey that one anyway. We did go and have a look at chatterbox at birdwell. looks ok! it is the cheapest so far. and i do know people that take their. I think we might have a look at the one on Thorncliffe. it is more money.
We did go to look at mazehil but they didnt have any babies her age there.

registered childminder with vacancies
full/part time places

please pm for any further info

thanks
:)

My little boy goes to thorncliffe park and i can highly recommend it. He is now 18mths but started at 6mths and they helped him settle in and now he runs in to play and waves me off. The baby room is brightly decorated and yes it may be a bit pricey but its a small price to pay when he comes home with some fantastic art work and tales of playing in spaghetti or goup on his care sheet! Have a look around to see for your self!x

ring the children,s information.

hi i,m a childminder s8 the fees are now 3.50

Or you can get to Children's Information Service online here: http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/sys_upl/templates/PT_AZServices/PT_AZServices_details.asp?ServiceID=125&pgid=4191&tid=152

Also, if you do a search of the Parenting Group you may find past threads about childminders in your area.

Good luck!

I pay £3.25 ph which includes my daughters tea. The best place to look is Children's Information Services in Leopold Street. They'll give you a list of registered child minders in your requested area and how much each charges.

I pay £3.00ph, includes meals.

Hi there, I am currently on maternity and have 2 children. My little boy will be 3 when I go back to work, and my little girl will be 7 months. I really don't want to go back so am weighing up all the costs. My son is currently in a nursery 2 days a week which is fantastic but will be costly for 2 kids!

Just wondered if anyone knew of any childminders around S6 and how much they are?

Many thanks, Rach xx

where is sheffield s8? i mtself ia,m a childminder but a live at woodseats sheffield 8 not sure if that would be any use to you. your little boy would be able to get the early year,s voucher,s which shoul get you a discount. I charge 3.50 per hour per child, so not sure what your paying now at your son,s nursery? good luck.

Hi! Thanks for the reply but S8 is no good. I live in Stannington and would be too pushed for time to get to Woodseats. Thank you anyway though!

sorry i did,nt realise sheffield 6 is in stannington yes it,s a bit far.

Can anyone recommend an Ofsted registered Nanny. We live in Hillsborough S6
I am due to start a new job in about a months time and need to find a Nanny who can start work at 6am and finish at 9am after taking my three children (ages 4,6 and 8) to school (Malin Brigde Primary school).
As there are only 3 hours work per day on offer, this position would be ideal for someone who has another job that starts a little later.

Many thanks
Emma

Have you tried Childrens Info Service (or whatever they are now called)?
But - Nanny's aren't usually registered with OFSTED - they don't have to be, whereas childminders do. Childminders do school "drop off's" but whether you would get one who was happy to start at 6am and could look after 3 kids, I'm not sure! (and they would work in their own home too - not yours)

Good luck!

Thanks for replying Rachel.
I know that nannys do not need to be registered with Ofsted, but more and more are registering, as it then means that they can accept childcare vouchers, from child tax credits, as part payment.
This makes them in very high demand from lots of working families as it makes childcare more affordable.
Thanks again,
Emma

they can accept childcare vouchers, from child tax credits, as part payment.
This makes them in very high demand from lots of working families as it makes childcare more affordable.


I'd not thought of that! But childcare vouchers and child tax credits are different things aren't they (I know thats not relevant - and I'm being picky:) )

If only childcare were more affordable.......

I've never actually come across anyone who uses a nanny, so I admit I don't know lots about them..... only childminders who stop childminding, and then the nightmare of finding replacement childcare!!!! Aaaaah!

I've never used or known anyone who has used a nanny before either, but due to the early hours I think it's likely to be my only option really.

childcare vouchers and child tax credits are different things, but you get what I mean. lol

Even if I did find a childminder who was willing to start that early, I doubt I could get my kids up and dressed early enough, for me to be on time. Just don't think it would be fair on them really. At least with a nanny they would be in their own home and could still get up at 7am/7:30am as usual. I think it would be a lot easier for them to accept than being taken to someone elses house.

OMG I am so stressed about this!!!

Hi,

I'm a nanny, but unfortunatly i couldn't get up and out that early. I have a little one of my own!

But I just wanted to suggest you try advertisting on netmums.
That is where our have found jobs in the past.

and yes more and more of us are becoming registered, just so you are aware though it does cost £99 year and to be honest the families tend to pay for it as it does not benefit the nanny more the family.

HTH

Sarah

I have actually posted on netmums already, but had no response yet.
I too would be happy to pay the £99 yearly fee for my nanny if necessary.

I also haven't mentioned before that I would be more than happy to have a nanny that has their own baby/toddler with them.

Thanks
Emma

If you don't have any luck you could consider contacting the colleges which are running current childminders courses.
I suggest this because when I did mine last year most people were just registering but didn't have clients. You could nip it in the bud that way.
I did it at Sheffield College Castle Centre but I understand that the course was going to be provided by someone else next time.

I have a 4 year old son who attends Woodseats School nursery in the afternoons. I need a child minder or Nanny to look after him in the mornings and take him to nursery for 1pm. If anyone is available, please PM me with details

Thanks

hi there,
i am a nanny and live in woodseats. i am not working at the minute as i took 1 year maternity leave to look after my little boy who is now 10 month.
i used to be registered with the childcare approvel scheme and could renew if needed.
i am free all mornings. Really good checkable references.
i am new to the sheffield forum and dont quite now how to PM you,

to pm, click the username and select from menu that drops down :)

it's not a good idea to put your phone number on a public forum ;)

OOps, missed that one. Thanks, Strix.

Lukesmum, you will need to post once more, I think, and then you will be able to PM. have deleted your details for your own safety - we're all lovely and trustworthy here, of course, but you never know who else could be lurking...

Here's the bit in FAQ:
I've just joined and can't PM. Why not?
We restrict PM facilities until someone has posted 5 times.

This helps restrict people from spamming from the moment they join the Forum. Whilst it's a little inconvenient for the vast majority of our users, we've found that very few people actually wnat or need to PM immediately.

After 5 posts, you will be able to use PMs.

If you've posted more than 5 times and still can't use PM, check in your profile that PMs have been enabled.

If PMs still don't work, please contact the Helpdesk.

ohh thanks cosywolf. never thought of that just thought im a little daft not knowing how to pm people hahaha

Hi my name is maria i am a qualified nursery nurse looking to go back into nannying i am currently working full time at a nursery in millhouses but looking to change i have 10 years experience both in nurseries and nannying if you are interested email me at mazhinch81@hotmail.com

I have found a child minder now. Thanks.

hi im wendy and a childminder in s5 for the baby it would cost (3.25 and the second child would be £2.25 hope that helps in the prices

we used to use a childminder in the s6 area was really good. it was a mother and daughter who were the childminders and my son loved it. we only left cos he went to full time nursery. It was in the marlcliffe road area of s6 email me if you want her number xx

Thank you everyone for all your replies. I am now only going back part time and have decided to send them both to the same nursery. Thanks again!

Which nursery did you decide on?

DS already goes to Bole hill at Walkley 2 days a week so decided to keep him there, and send DD too.

Hi,

everyone,
I need somebody to take care of my baby (1 year old) from monday to thursday.any stay at home mums or students.
thanking you

hye
just remember it is best to make sure they have a crb check and you check out refences or try a local nursery

hi i have pm you did you get wendy
:|

Hi,

everyone,
I need somebody to take care of my baby (1 year old) from monday to thursday.any stay at home mums or students.
thanking you

what area?

I am a registared childminder and have vacancies what area do you live in?
Pm if you require further details.

hi still looking for childcare? please post me,regiested chilminder in the sheffield 8 area has placements available now.

Which nursery did you decide on?

Aaaaah crafty Missus :hihi:;)

You said it.. :)

If you follow this link to the AskSid website you will find a list of registered childminders and day nurseys in Sheffield.
http://www.asksid.net/

Anyone got any experience of this place?

Hi my friends child went there for a short time and didnt like it.
Are you looking for child care? if so post me i may be able to help.

Note: always check references, Ofsted registration etc if employing a childminder.

used to work at this place ages ago. it was not very good. but heard it had changed hands and now has a new name

Thanks guys, fortunately I wasnt enquiring because I needed childcare:)