Ash & Claire Childminders

We had a really fun day in the woods today . We made our own houses, did some great balancing, went on a hunt to find eeyore and loved having our very own playground in the woods we did awesome swinging like monkeys 🙊

We made it onto the BBC! With the news about the CMA investigation into childcare costs, it was so important to get the real story out there. The whole interview was actually around 20 minutes long, so as you can imagine, a lot of our discussion about rising costs and the system's flaws had to be edited down!

But as you'll see in the video, the work we do in a home-from-home setting is vital. Smaller ratios, personalized care, and a true family dynamic are what make childminding the best early years job in the world. We will keep fighting for it! 💪

Check out our interview below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaVfKyRX1k8

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A beautifully busy morning! 🌟 I did an early pickup today to help a parent get to work early, which meant the whole crew got to help me shop for tonight's Squirrels camp before the school run! ⛺🛒

Being able to offer this kind of flexible support to our families is exactly why I love being a childminder.

Have a great Friday, everyone! 🎒💙

We had an absolutely brilliant day out at the Army Flying Museum today! 🚁✈️

It has been a while since our last visit, and the children had the best time exploring the interactive exhibits, completing giant puzzles, and running off some energy by the airfield.

Days like this are exactly why we love getting out and about to learn through real-world adventures!

Phew, the BBC Breakfast team has just left! 🎥😅

If I’m completely honest, the nerves definitely got the better of me, and I’m currently overthinking everything I said. But the most important thing is that the conversation is finally happening.

A massive, heartfelt thank you to all the amazing parents and fellow childminders who turned up to the toddler club and spoke so brilliantly this morning. You truly showcased the heart of what we do and why it matters.

Fingers crossed for the edit! We'll let you know when it's going to air. 🤞❤️

To all the childminders who follow us (and parents if you want to comment please)

BBC Breakfast has contacted me again and given me a few questions to think about for Monday?
Just curious, what are people's answers to these:

How does childminding differ from other forms of childcare?
What are some of the challenges you're facing at the moment?
What are some of the key problems with the funding of childminding?
There's not a lack of parents needing cover for their children, so why is it becoming so hard to meet that demand in your opinion?
What would you like to see change?
Do you still love your job, and will you continue being a childminder?

Many many thanks

Our lovely woodland adventure today