Childminders can offer: Individual care, sometimes even one to one, where time can be spent interacting with your child, whether that be having a cuddle and singing nursery rhymes or helping with homework.

Flexible hours, usually earlier or later starts than day nurseries and Out of School Clubs can offer.

Home-based care with low adult:child ratios, and within a mixed age environment, with brothers and sisters cared for who are pre-school and school aged, in a family environment.

Continuity of care, from just a few weeks right through to secondary school to meet the individual needs of your baby/child, adapting where possible to the routines of your child.

Social outings to toddler groups and Childminder drop-Ins.

Real life learning, in a community environment, with regular trips to the local libraries, shops, parks and other facilities.