Childminding is recognised as accounting for 80% of the childcare provision in Ireland. The current childminding initiative aims to professionalise the childminding sector and give due recognition to the invaluable work being done by childminders nationwide.
What is the role of a childminder?
- Childminders offer a home from home setting where children are treated with respect and are shown love, security and friendship
- The hours can be full time, part time or flexible to suit both parents and childminder’s needs.
- Parents and childminders negotiate their own private arrangements, terms and payments
The Childminding Advisory Service in Kilkenny
In August 2005 Helena Comerford commenced work as Childminding Advisory Officer with Kilkenny County Childcare Committee. This was made possible as a result of funding from the Health Service Executive.
What does the Childminding Advisory Service Offer?
- Free advice and support for existing childminders
- Support for new childminding services
- Advisory visits to childminders own home
- Information for parents who are seeking a childminder and need advice about where to start looking
- Facilitation of childminding networks
- Access to training
- Advice on childminding development grants, current legislation and childcare issues
A specific information pack has been compiled for childminders. It contains info on;
- Tax
- Insurance
- Grants
- The advisory service in general
This pack is available free of charge from the office.
Who will benefit from this Advisory Service?
- Existing childminders in Kilkenny City and County
- Childminders wishing to set up and establish new services in their own homes
- Parents who are seeking childminders to care for their child/children.
Training & Networking
For information on training & networking events click here
Further Details
For further information on any aspect of childminding contact Helena Comerford on 056-7752865
