Childminder

Career path and progression

Once registered, you could take further training, like a free online course covering child development during early years.

With experience you could expand your business and take on a childcare assistant or become a network co-ordinator, supporting other local childminders.

You might also:

• move into nursery work
• become an early years teaching assistant
• train to be a tutor on childminding courses

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• a desire to help people
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks
• pass a medical check

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Psychology - Childminders need to understand how children develop emotionally, socially, and cognitively at different ages. Knowledge of child psychology helps them recognise developmental milestones, respond to challenging behaviour, and create a nurturing environment that supports each child's wellbeing.
• Biology - Childminders benefit from understanding child development, nutrition, hygiene, and basic health. Knowing how children grow physically – including their dietary needs at different stages and how to spot signs of illness – is a key part of keeping children safe and healthy.
• Food Preparation and Nutrition - Childminders plan, prepare, and serve meals and snacks for children throughout the day. Understanding balanced nutrition for different age groups, food allergies, and safe food handling is essential for keeping children healthy and meeting dietary requirements.
• English Language - Childminders support children's language development through conversation, storytelling, and reading activities. They also need strong communication skills to speak with parents about their child's progress and to keep clear written records of accidents or safeguarding concerns.
• Business - Childminders are typically self-employed, so they need to manage their own finances, set fees, handle tax returns, and market their services locally. Understanding how to run a small business is essential for making childminding a sustainable career.

Also relevant

• Physical Education - Childminders organise active play and outdoor activities to support children's physical development. Understanding how movement, coordination, and exercise contribute to healthy growth helps them plan age-appropriate activities that keep children active and engaged.
• Sociology - Childminders work with families from diverse backgrounds and need to understand different family structures, cultural practices, and social influences on child development. This awareness helps them provide inclusive, respectful care that meets each family's needs.
• Art and Design - Childminders regularly plan creative activities like painting, drawing, and crafting to support children's imagination and fine motor skills. Being confident with art and design helps them create engaging, age-appropriate activities that encourage self-expression.
• Music - Childminders often use singing, nursery rhymes, and simple musical activities to support children's language development and social skills. Understanding rhythm and music helps them create fun, interactive experiences that are a natural part of early years learning.