With childminder week fast approaching, I wanted to write an honest post about our incredible and invaluable sector.
There’s so much no one tells you about this job.
Yes – it’s rewarding, joyful and full of those special “aww” moments…. But it’s also emotional, exhausting and requires you to be so much more than just someone who cares for and supports children’s development. Coming from an early years and education background, I thought I had a good handle on what to expect. I understood development, routines, learning through play… all of that. But stepping into childminding? Well that’s a whole different world and there were still so many things I had to learn the hard way and things I am still learning.
Here’s what I wish I’d known from the start:
- Your home becomes an early years setting… but it’s still your home. There’s a strange blur between professional and personal life – and learning how to protect both, to create healthy boundaries while still being present, takes time. It’s a journey of growth, adjustment and a lot of heart.
- There’s only you – Now this may seem fairly obvious but there’s no team to hand things over to – it’s just you! In those moments, when everything feels like it’s piling up, you realise just how much responsibility rests on your shoulders and while that can feel overwhelming at times, it also makes you appreciate the unique impact you have.
- You become part of a family’s village – It’s not just about the child – it’s building trust, communication and a real relationship with parents and family units too.
- The paperwork doesn’t stop! Even with experience, doing it solo is a different beast. Policies, safeguarding, funding and more – it’s a lot to hold alone.
- You’ll question yourself – often. Am I doing enough? Too much? Should I step in or step back? But those doubts are a sign you care deeply. They show that you’re invested in the well-being and growth of the children you’re guiding and is a quiet reminder of the love and dedication that drives you every day.
- The small wins matter most. The first steps. Those little giggles. The Young Ones who tell you they are your best friend… That’s where the magic is!
- You’ll learn just as much as the children. About patience, child development, boundaries, connection… and especially about yourself!
- At times it can feel lonely. Especially when you’re the only adult around all day but there’s a whole community of childminders who get it – and they can lift you up when you need it most.
- Your home will never be the same… and honestly, neither will you. There’s mud sprinkled in the carpet, little fingerprints on the walls and their voices echo in your mind long after they’ve gone home. These children become so much more – they become family…. And even long after they leave, a part of you will always be cheering them on.
Despite the hard bits, the long days and the juggling act – I honestly wouldn’t change it! This work, this role, these little lives I get to be part of… they’ve brought me more joy, purpose and pride than I ever imagined! There’s something incredibly special about watching children grow and learn in a space that feels warm, safe, loved and truly theirs.
I feel so lucky to do what I do and so passionate about giving children a beautiful, meaningful start.
It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it!
I equally take great pride in supporting other educators wherever I can and offering them the praise and encouragement they rightfully deserve… To anyone just starting out: you’ve got this! And to those who’ve been doing this a while – you’re amazing – Truly.
Let’s keep lifting each other up.
Send this to a childminder who deserves some love today.
Guiding The Young Ones 
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