Why Childminders Are Key to Securing the Best Possible Start for Our Children

When we talk about giving children the best possible start in life, the early years takes centre stage. These formative years, full of discovery, development, and deep connection, lays the foundation for a child’s future. While early years settings like nurseries and preschools are often spotlighted, childminders play a crucial, and sometimes under recognised, role in shaping young lives. It’s time we give them the recognition they truly deserve.

A Home from Home

Childminders offer a unique blend of professional care and homely comfort. In small, nurturing settings, children experience stability, warmth, and responsive relationships, factors that research consistently links to strong emotional development and secure attachment. For many children, especially those starting their early education journey, this gentle transition from home to a home based setting makes all the difference.

Tailored, Individualised Care

One of the greatest strengths of childminders is their ability to provide highly individualised care. With smaller groups and strong, sustained relationships, childminders can really get to know each child, their interests, needs, routines, and family contexts. This deep knowledge allows for responsive planning and the kind of personalised support that helps children thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

Flexible, Family Centred Support

Childminders are often a lifeline for families juggling work, school runs, and complex routines. Their flexibility and willingness to adapt to family needs mean they are uniquely positioned to support not only children but also parents and carers. This wraparound support is vital for building the kind of strong, trusting partnerships that benefit children far beyond the early years.

A Rich Learning Environment

Don’t be fooled by the smaller scale childminder settings which are brimming with learning opportunities. Whether it’s a nature walk, a trip to the library, baking at home, or imaginative play in the garden, childminders create experiences that support all areas of development. Importantly, they have the freedom to follow children’s interests and build learning into everyday moments, making it meaningful and memorable.

Part of the Professional Workforce

Childminders are trained professionals. They follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, engage in ongoing professional development, and are held to the same standards as other early years providers. Many are deeply passionate about their work, constantly seeking ways to improve outcomes for the children in their care.

At the heart of great early years practice is the power of relationships, and this is where childminders truly shine. Their ability to form close, trusting, and consistent relationships with both children and families is a powerful protective factor. These relationships build confidence, foster communication, and support emotional wellbeing, all critical ingredients for a successful start in life.

Let’s Celebrate and Support Childminders

If we are serious about ensuring every child gets the best start, then we must recognise and invest in the diverse early years workforce, and that includes championing the vital role of childminders. They are not just carers; they are educators, nurturers, role models, and advocates. They are the quiet heroes of the early years.

In celebrating childminders, we shine a light on a model of care that is deeply relational, flexible, and responsive, the very qualities we know children need to flourish. Let’s make sure their contribution is never overlooked and always valued.