An a-z list of useful information
An a-z list of useful information
Childcare
Choosing childcare is an important decision for you and your child. There are several options for childcare depending on what you need and the age of your child.
Some of the benefits include:
- improving children’s development, for example their communication skills
- helping them learn to socialise with other children and make friends
- giving them access to new activities and exciting places to play
- helping them begin to get ready for school
For more information about finding childcare and help with childcare costs click here.
Childminding
Childminders are part of the early years and childcare offer for families. They are either Ofsted registered or registered with a Childminder Agency. (Currently, all registered childminders in Stockport working with children 0 to 5 are registered with Ofsted.) This means that they are inspected at least every 6 years and offer flexible childcare. Most have places throughout the year with some offering weekend places and cater for shift workers. Many offer holiday places and wraparound care and collect from local schools. Most offer Childcare and Education from 0-4 years and parents apply for a place by contacting the childminder. They offer a home-from-home with lower ratios than other childcare providers and take children on regular outings in the community.
For more information about what childminders do and what it is like at a childminding setting, check the information here.
Search for a childminder using the Stockport Information & Family Directory here. (You can filter for those closest to you by adding in your postcode.)
Childminding as a Career
Childminding is a rewarding career prospect allowing the flexibility of working from home, choosing the hours you work and meeting the needs of families with children. In Stockport there is supportive childminding community with free support from the dedicated Childminding Team at the Council.
You do not necessarily need to have previous childcare experience as we offer courses for those thinking of becoming childminders. There is more information about becoming a childminder, including course details, here.
Crying
All babies cry for many reasons and to have their needs met. It may be upsetting to hear your baby cry but it causes no harm and will eventually stop. The NHS website has advice on how to soothe a crying baby.
It’s okay to walk away if you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you.
After a few minutes when you are feeling calm, go back and check on the baby. The ICON website has other useful advice if you are struggling to cope with your baby’s crying. Also speak to your Health Visitor, a family member or a friend.
