Questions to ask the childcare service provider / childminder
Some things to bear in mind include:
Has your service notified the Health Service Executive Pre-School Services
Office or have you been in touch with Louth County Childcare Committee?
Are you fully insured, and does your Insurance cover outings and collecting children from school?
What happens if my child has an accident or becomes ill?
How do you deal with children's challenging behaviour?
Are all staff trained and experienced?
Do you provide a wide range of interesting and imaginative activities for the children?
Are there any other adults besides the staff present on the premises and what contact will they have with my child?
Are there suitable and stimulating toys and play materials appropriate to your child’s age?
Is a member of staff trained in first aid and are they present at all times?
Have you a policy on child protection?
How much do you charge?
Do I pay when my child is sick or on holidays?
Can I visit anytime?
If I have a concern, who do I contact?
What are the adult/child ratios and do they comply with the regulations?
Do you provide meals for the children, or do they bring their own?
Swings and Slides Programme This programme is aimed at parents of children 0-10 years and is run over 6 weeks, 2 hours per week. It is a very practical course covering areas such as play, managing behaviour and healthy eating.
