Childminders' Information Manual

Childminders’
Information
Manual
FINGAL COUNTY
CHILDCARE COMMITTEE
COISTE CURAIM LEANAI CHONTAE FHINE GALL
www.fingalcountychildcare.ie
Contents
Introduction 2
Foreword 2
Acknowledgements 3
Profile of Fingal County Childcare Committee 4
FCCC Staff and Board Membership 5
Section One: Play 7
Section Two: Planning Activities 13
Section Three: Behaviour Management 15
Section Four: Food & Nutrition 21
Section Five: Child Protection 25
Section Six: Safety in the home 31
Section Seven: Insurance 37
Section Eight: Grants 39
Section Nine: Finance & Tax 45
Section Ten:The Law 53
Section Eleven: Childminding Ireland 55
Section Twelve: Useful Contacts 57
Section Thirteen: Appendices 63
Section Fourteen: Bibliography 71
1
Foreword
Fingal County Childcare Committee is delighted to produce this manual to assist you in providing a Childminding
service.
According to Childminding Ireland, childminding is the most popular form of childcare, and therefore
Childminders are in high demand.
The increasing number of families with young children settling in Fingal County, the increased birth rates and the
likely increased demand for childcare highlights the need to ensure that all future service development is
supported by us.
Fingal County Childcare Committee was established in 2001 as one of the 33 County/City Childcare Committees
that exist throughout the country, FCCC was formed to act in an advisory capacity to all childcare services
including Childminders in Fingal County, providing advice, information and assistance on a wide variety of topics
in the childcare field.
The Vision of FCCC is:

"To ensure high quality childcare that is accessible and affordable to all in the Fingal area"
The Mission of FCCC is:

"To develop a Strategic Plan for co-ordinated childcare provision in Fingal and ensure its implementation"
The work of the committee is also focused on developing networks and support services for Childminders by
providing information, training and individual support and advice. In addition to the above we now help parents to
establish links with Childminders.
Caring for our children is the responsibility of the whole community. Parents and other family members have the
principle role in this, but we all have a part to play.Whether you are a public official, an employer, a member of a
voluntary organisation or a member of one of the caring professions, you also have a part to play. Please help us
in whatever way you can to assist parents and guardians to provide the best possible care for the children in our
communities.
On behalf of Fingal County Childcare Committee, I would like to thank Una Caffrey the Childminders Advisory
Officer, for her diligent work in the preparation of this Information Manual for Childminders.
We sincerely hope that you enjoy reading this manual and that the content will be of benefit to you.
Hilary Kendlin.
Chairperson
March 2006.
2
Acknowledgements
Fingal County Childcare Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the individuals and
organisations that provided information, support and advice in the compilation of information in preparing this
manual. Consultation took place with the key stakeholders locally and nationally to ensure that the information
provided in this manual is accurate and up to date. Special thanks to
• Liz Butler, who provided us with very valuable information and forms for Childminders.
• The Children’s First officer, Amanda Nordell also supplied us with the necessary material for the section on
child protection.
• The Health Promotion Unit, in the Northern Area Health Board completed the section on food and nutrition.
I would like to extend my heart felt thanks to Sheena Rafferty and her staff who worked very hard to meet
our deadlines.
• The Health and Safety Authority also provided us with very valuable information on health and safety.
• Colin Comerford who wrote the finance and tax section.
• Invaluable information was gathered from various books and reports published by the following organisations:
Barnardos, IPPA and The National Safety Council.
• Members of the Committee would also like to extend their gratitude to all members of the FCCC Staff Team.
Their assistance is gratefully appreciated.
• During the production of the manual we had the fortunate experience of having a student, Deirdre Dixon, on
our staff team.We would like to thank her sincerely for all her help with the production of this manual.
• The Office for the Minister of Children for funding this project under the Childcare Investment Programme.
• And last but not least our thanks to those Childminders in Fingal, who because of their need for information
and advice encouraged and prompted us to produce this practical user friendly Manual to be used by anyone
interested in setting up a Childminding service.
Disclaimer:
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate and up to date. No responsibility for any loss or
distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of material in this publication can be accepted by Fingal County
Childcare Committee and / or their respective servants or agents.
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4
Staff Details and Committee Membership:
Staff Details:
• Michelle Butler, Co-ordinator & Manager
Ph: 807 7661. Email: Michelle@fingalcountychildcare.ie
• Una Caffrey, Childminders Advisory Officer

Ph: 807 7665. Una@fingalcountychildcare.ie
• Jacinta Cooke, Development Officer

Ph: 807 7662. Jacinta@fingalcountychildcare.ie
• Mairead Tucker, Development Officer

Ph: 807 7663. Mairead@fingalcountychildcare.ie
• Helen Campbell, Senior Administrator

Ph: 807 7664. Helen@fingalcountychildcare.ie
• Dragana Flynn, Administrator & Information Officer

Ph: 807 7666. Dragana@fingalcountychildcare.ie
Committee Membership:
• Barnardos
• Blanchardstown Area Partnership
• Community Providers Network
• Co-operation Fingal North
• FAS
• Fingal Business Forum
• Fingal Community Forum
• Fingal County Enterprise Board
• Fingal Development Board
• Health Service Executive
• ICTU
• National Voluntary Children's Organisations
• ONE Family
• Parents
• Private Providers Network
• VEC
Office Contact Details:

ABCO Kovex Building,
Swords Business Park,
Swords, Co. Dublin.
Tel: 01 – 807 7660.
Fax: 01- 807 7669.
Email: info@fingalcountychildcare.ie
Web: www.fingalcountychildcare.ie
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6
Play
SECTION ONE
PLAY
Section 1: Play:
“Play is the business of childhood”

This quote captures the importance of play. It is through play that children learn about the world in which they
live. By recreating what they see and hear going on around them they develop an understanding of life. By giving
children in our care the opportunity to play we give them the means or the tools to learn. By providing for
children’s play we create the opportunity for children to learn new skills.
Important aspects of play:

• What is play?
• The benefits of play.
• The types of play.
• What children will not learn by playing?
• The stages of play.
• The role of the Childminder in children’s daily lives
• Activities for babies and children.
What is play?
‘In play, a child always behaves beyond his average age, above his daily behaviour, in play it is as though he were a head
taller than his normal self ’ (Vygotsky,L,1978.Tassoni,P, et al,2005,366)
We as childcare providers spend a good deal of time trying to justify why and what children are doing when they
are playing. We constantly have to explain the value in play. Play is indeed complex. What we do know is it is
important for human growth and development. It surpasses any cultural boundaries.All children will learn through
play even those with disabilities .We can look to the negative to justify the benefits of play, by this I mean by
reflecting on the children in Romanian orphanages who were not given the chance to play we can see how
adversely children can be affected with out play. It is important to note that the United Nations Convention on
the Rights of the Child states that every child has a right to play.This indeed puts significance to the importance
of play.
• Play has different meanings for different people. If you think back to how you played as a child and compare
them to someone else, the games maybe different, but the following points will describe features of your play:
• It was freely chosen
• The rules are made up
• While playing you really concentrated
• You use your own props
• The play wasn’t predestined, it evolved over time
• There was freedom involved
• It was fun, natural and spontaneous
• It was intrinsically motivated and you wanted to do it for yourself
• There is a relaxed atmosphere with no fear or threat.
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The benefits of play
• Play is fun and enjoyable.
• Children are given the chance to do their own research, to test and identify, and thus discover new things.
• Play gives the child the opportunity to develop their creativity.
• While playing a child is given the time to work hard be absorbed and develop their attention span.
• Children learn to co operate while playing a skill that they will carry right through life.
• Children play at their own pace.
• The child is given the opportunity to be in control through play.
• The child is given the opportunity to practise new skills.
• It occupies the child.
• While playing children acquire new language, develop new skills, refine their co-ordination and develop their
understanding of things such as numbers and letters.
• In an unstructured environment they can develop the social side of their personalities.
• While playing a child can work along side others, show off their talents, share toys and mind someone or be
minded by someone.
• It helps a child feel satisfied.
• Play can be therapeutic and help the child relax.
The types of play

There are many different types of play.
• A child can be involved in free play, this is where the adult provides the materials and the child plays without
direction or guidance.
• Structured play is where the adult provides the props and joins in the game.
• Physical play such as: running, jumping, hopping etc.
• Imaginative play such as: pretending to be a postman doctor nurse.A child can act out real life situations such
as going to the dentist, shop etc.
• Creative play: Such as drawing or painting.
• Manipulative play: Such as cutting, threading beads, building blocks
• Discovery play: Such as playing weighing things, looking at objects that sink or float.
• Social play is when children play together.
What children will not learn by playing?

When a child is playing he is learning the following:
• Not to fail
• Not to give up
• Not to parrot responses
• Not to stop doing something because they can’t get it right
• Not to become a spectator to others
(The above information was taken from Play in the primary curriculum)
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The stages of play
Geraldine French in ‘Supporting Quality’ describes the stages of play as follows:
Age Play Description

0-2Years Solitary Playing alone, often very
inventively with objects,
exploring and experimenting.
2-3 Years Parallel Playing at personal activity
alongside another child but
not interacting with them
3 Years onwards Associative Intermittent communication
and interaction with another
child, maybe at the same
activity but still personal play.
3 Years onwards Co-operative Child is able to take account
of others actions, and needs
to co-operate by taking on a
role in the group.
(French,2000:88).
The role of the Childminder in children’s daily lives

Childminders have an important role to play in children’s play. Below is a list of things you as a Childminder should
do when providing for children’s play.
• Arrange for the company of other children.
• Provide a comfortable environment, one that allows the child freedom of movement but one that also ensures
safety.
• Ensure there are Rules and boundaries clearly understood by each child. It is vitally important to treat all
children equally.Those treated unfairly will have a great sense of that and will rebel against you.
• Provide a space to play. (Indoor and outdoor).An adult should also participate in children’s games. Doing what
is asked of them, (within in reason).
• Provide bright and attractive equipment. Taking into account the age and the stage of development of each
child. It is vitally important that each child is seen as unique and allowed to progress at a pace that will enhance
their needs.
• Ensure there is sufficient time to play.
• Provide for things out of the ordinary.
• Plan for the day and week ahead.That way you ensure all needs are met.
• Ensure that the child has his/her basic needs of food, warmth, and good health met.
• Resolve conflicts in children’s play in a positive manner.
• Allow the child the time to solve his/ her own conflicts.
• Encourage children to get involved in other children’s games. For some children this can be difficult.Therefore
the Childminder needs to be aware of what is the average age for this to happen.
• Ensure that they make the transition from home to Childminder as smooth as possible.
• Show the child in your care that you do care for them.
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Activities for Babies and young children.
• Water play
• Sand play
• Creative play i.e. paints, printing, the use of recycled materials, play dough, clay, Plasticine etc.
• Cooking
• Imaginary play
• Blocks
• Puzzles and tabletop activities
• Books
• Outings
• Interest tables
• Musical equipment and music to listen to
• The chance to run, jump, hop, skip, walk, roll and sit
• One to one interaction with the childminder
• Things to look at, hold, play and explore
• A treasure basket. This is a basket of natural objects which children love to play and explore with. It was
developed by a woman called Elinor Goldschmied.
Treasure Basket
The Treasure Basket is designed to offer opportunity for play and learning to infants when they are able to sit up
comfortably and before they can crawl. When a Treasure Basket is in use in a day care centre it has been found
that it is more likely to be successful if one or two staff members take special responsibility for the collection.
The items in the Treasure Basket are chosen to offer rich sensory experience through
• Touch - Texture, shape, weight
• Smell - Variety of scents
• Taste - Limited scope but possible
• Sound -Ringing, tinkling, banging
• Sight - Colour, form length, shininess
None of the items are ‘bought’ toys as the list below indicates, neither are any of them made of plastic since this
material offers very little in the way of sensory variety. All the items are washable or wipe able and should be
augmented and changed regularly to maintain the baby’s interest. The adult needs to feel confident themselves
about the objects which are included in the Treasure Basket, not using any items which may seem to them to be
unsuitable.
The Role of the Adult

The adult is present and attentive to the child/children’s needs without having to take an active part in their play.
Guidelines for use of the Treasure Basket

• The Basket should not be lees than 14 inches in diameter and four to five inches high, flat bottomed with no
handle and strong enough for the infant to lean on without tipping up.
• Fill the Basket to the brim with objects to allow the baby plenty of scope to sort through and to select what
appeals to her to him.
• See that the baby is seated comfortably (with a supporting cushion if necessary) if placed sideways, see that
the rim of the basket is near enough for an elbow to rest upon it.
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List of suggested items for the Treasure Basket
Natural Objects
• Fir Cones: differing sizes • Big Feathers
• Large pebbles • Pumice Stones
• Bone shoe horn • Corks: large sizes
• Large Chestnuts • Avocado pear stones
• Walnuts: large • Objects of natural minerals
• Small raffia mat • Small shoe brush
• Wooden nail brush • House painting brush
• Toothbrush • Cane bag handles
• Shaving brush • Piece of Loofah
• Small natural sponge • A lemon
• An apple • Woollen Ball
• Little Baskets • Bone ring
Wooden Objects
• Small boxes • Curtain ring
• Cylinder • Castanets (unpainted)
• Rattle – various types • Egg cup
• Napkin rings • Small boxes velvet lined
• Peg: two types • Bobbin cotton reel
• Small turned bowl • Bamboo whistle
• Cubes • Spoon: Spatula
• Small drum on wooden frame • Coloured beads on a string
Metal Objects
• Spoons: various sizes • Brass curtain rings
• Small egg whisk • Tea strainer
• Bunch of keys • Tea infuser
• Small tins: edges smoothed • Costume jewellery chain
• Small ash tray • Garlic squeezer
• Bunch of bells • A triangle
• Tin lids: all types • Scout whistle
• Metal beaker • Small funnel
• Length of chain (of differing quality) • Bottle brush
• Metal egg cup • Small metal frame mirror
• Bulldog paper clip • Typewriter spool
• Lemon squeezer • Large scent bottle top
• Closed tins containing rice, beans, etc.
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Objects in leather, textile, rubber, fur
• Puppy bone • Small rag doll
• Puppy ring • Tennis Ball
• Leather purse • Golf Ball
• Small leather bag with zip • Bead embroidered purse
• Coloured marble ‘Eggs’ • Small teddy bear
• High bouncer Ball • Leather spectacle case
• Small cloth bags containing: • Beanbag velvet powder puff
• Lavender, Rosemary,Thyme etc.
Paper, Cardboard etc

• Little notebook with spiral rings
• Small cardboard boxes
• Greaseproof papers
• Insides of lavatory rolls
• Tinfoil
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Planning Activities
SECTION TWO
PLANNING
ACTIVITIES
Section 2: Planning Activities
Points for planning your week/day

• It is important that a child is not rushed. They should be given time to take care of their own needs. For
example toilet needs, washing hands and putting on their own coat.
• Children need to be given space to play. It is your home and children need to be shown to respect that but
they also need a certain amount of flexibility and freedom
• It is important to give children choices. If you decide that you are doing playdough, for example, and a child
does not want to join their choice should be respected.They should be given an alternative where possible
• Children should be encouraged to tidy up .They should be supported in this action .It should be made fun and
enjoyable.The child’s age and stage of development should be taken into account.
• Meal time is a very important time of the day. It should be relaxed and enjoyable. It is a good idea if as a
Childminder you sit with the children in your care. Remember they can learn a lot from watching how you
behave.
• To have a quiet time or sleep time is very important for small children.
• Outside time is extremely important for young children. Exercise and the open air can help combat disease
and promotes physical development.
If you have a plan for the day your day will run smoothly. Being prepared is the key to a stress free day.The children
will be happier too which is always a bonus for you.The following guidelines will give you some ideas for planning
your week/month.
Activities to develop concentration skills

• Jigsaws
• Playdough
• Cooking
• Feeding and taking care of birds and other animals
• Planting seeds
• Lego
Activities to help children develop good social skills

• Home corner and imaginative play activities
• Board games
• Card games
• Games such as pass the parcel, musical statues and Simon Says
• Song time
• Outside games that children need some one else to play. For example a see saw, Ball games, what time is it Mr
Wolf and witch witch.
• Construction materials
• Jigsaw puzzles
Activities to develop language skills

• Conversations with an adult.This can happen while children are at play.
• Reading and making books
• Home corner activities
• Water play
• Sand play
• Feely bags
• Interest tables
• Getting a child to describe an object that is hidden
• Songs
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Activities to encourage children to listen
• News or show and tell time (The child brings an item from home and the group discusses it)
• Sound lotto
• Activities to develop children’s pre reading and writing skills
• Label items around the home
• Have a good variety of books available to the children
• A library trip
• Getting children to choose the book
• Adults should share books with the child pointing to the words as you read the story
• Whispering games
• Songs, music and Rhymes
• Circle time
Activities to develop mathematical skills

• Sand and water play measuring/ weighing out items
• Counting items they are playing with. For example ‘How many blocks did you use for that tower’
• Matching and sorting games
• Making and following patterns
• Ideas for science activities
• Water: Making ice pops and ice cubes, showing them how ice melts, floats and expands.
• Planting:What happens to plants that are not watered or given sunlight?
Activities to develop gross motor skills

• Running
• Walking
• Cycling
• Climbing
• Crawling
• Throwing
• Dancing
Activities to develop fine motor skills

• Peg boards
• Painting
• Cutting
• Threading beads
• Sewing cards
• Jigsaws with peg holders
• Crayons
• Encourage ‘Pretend’ writing as part of their games
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Behaviour Management
SECTION THREE
BEHAVIOUR
MANAGEMENT
Section 3: Behaviour Management:
Managing children’s behaviour can be as easy as A. B.C.

A means The Antecedents the important things that happened before the misbehaviour occurred.
B represents the undesired behaviour.
C stands for consequences i.e. what happens to the child, and others, as a result of behaviour.
As a Childminder you could look at the above and come to an understanding of the child’s behaviour. I have
included an A.B.C. chart in the appendix. This can be photocopied and used as needed. When dealing with
behaviour management it is vital that you have knowledge of child development. Knowing the age/stage of
development will help you consider what is or is not a valid behaviour for a particular child.
In this section we have included a list of behaviours that are linked to ages and stages of development. This is a
very useful guide to children’s behaviour. It must be stated however that each child is an individual and must be
treated so. If as a Childminder you are wondering if a behaviour is appropriate or not and you are wondering if
you need to call for professional help you could ask your self the following questions:
• Is the behaviour age appropriate?
• Is the child’s intelligence affected in any way? For example a four-year-old child who is below average
intelligence will not show the same skills in problem solving that a child of average intelligence will.They may
need extra help from a loving adult. Their behaviour needs to be understood and accepted in view of their
abilities.
• Would this behaviour be accepted in the child s country of origin?
• How severe or intense was the behaviour? Mia Pringle, who states that it is common enough to be considered
normal, cited an example of nail biting. However nail biting to such an extent as to cause bleeding would
indicate that there are difficulties.
Why do children misbehave?

• This is a question that is very often asked by parents and childminders a like. Rudolf Drekius, a leading
psychiatrist, researched the functions of children’s behaviour. I will concentrate on the goals of misbehaviour
that he identified.
• Attention,
• Power,
• Revenge
• Display of inadequacy.
Attention:
When children are given attention they feel they belong and are part of the group. For some children life has
taught them the only way to get noticed is to misbehave.The need for attention is strong and negative attention
is preferred to none. Attention seeking behaviour evokes a feeling of annoyance in an adult and usually results in
them nagging the child.
Power:
That child whose aim it is to have control only feels satisfied when they are in charge. They persevere thus
challenging their carers and resulting in the adult feeling angry and riled. The adult may react in two ways, they
may engage in unproductive rows or they may avoid situations pandering to the child’s every request. This
response from the adult often results in aggressive behaviour from the child or the child may comply but not
happily.
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Revenge:
This is the third goal identified by Dreikius.The children who employ these tactics only feel important when they
can hurt others. In order to bring meaning to their lives they inflict emotional pain.This evokes a feeling of hurt
in the adult who may respond in a similar revengeful manner. Children may retort by intensifying their behaviour.
Display of inadequacy:
The reason behind this behaviour centres on the child’s belief that he/she is incompetent. It can result in an adult
feeling despair and giving up.The carer’s sense of hopelessness is passed on to the child who makes no progress.
Whilst children are aware of the results of their behaviour, they are unaware of the goals of their behaviour.They
don’t consciously choose these ways of behaving. With out noticing habits or ways of behaviour are formed. By
being aware of the functions of behaviour adults can implement change. For example, if adults are aware that the
goals of a child’s behaviour are say power they know not to get involved in the power struggle. However they can
give the child the opportunity to be in control at other more appropriate times.
Changing the behaviour

In order to change the behaviour one needs to be in tune with the circumstances that the behaviour occurs in.
You need to be aware of the exact behaviour to be eliminated.There is no point in saying I want the child to stop
being aggressive you need to say I want him/ her to stop biting hitting etc. Using the A.B.C. charts, contained in
the appendix, will give clarity as to the true nature of the problem.
It is equally important that statements like ‘she never stops biting’ are quantified. It is much better to be able to
say to a parent she bit x number of times to day than ‘she was biting all day’.
Misbehaviour can be changed by positive reinforcement. By rewarding a child for ‘good’ behaviour a child will be
encouraged to continue with this behaviour. By exposing a child who misbehaves to other children who display
positive behaviour this can evoke change. An adult can also model correct ways of behaviour. In order to bring
about change those working with children need to have a flexible approach to solving the problem.They need to
be aware that difficult behaviour cannot be treated in the same way as an illness.
‘There is no prescription like a pill that is applied once for the problem to go away’ (Laisley J, 1987:135).
Different approaches will need to be tried with different children.Adults need to understand the child and be able
to see things from his/her perspective. It is also important to be aware that change will take time. Consistency is
also important, there is no point correcting a child some of the time otherwise the child will not learn what the
ground rules are. Children need the boundaries set. Equally it is important that there is consistency between all
adults caring for the child.When talking to children it is important that the behaviour is described. For example
adults should say ‘I don’t like swearing’ and not ‘I don’t like you for swearing’ or ‘hitting is not nice’ instead of’ you
are not nice for hitting’.
It is also important to listen to your self-talking to the children in your care. If you find you are constantly using no or don’t
do then take a step back and review the rules in your house. Could some of them be dropped? If so then life will be easier
for you and the child.
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Giving children choices will also help eliminate some behaviours. It is important to know how you want the child
to behave so that once the child is reaching the goal or at least heading in the right direction he/she can be
rewarded.
Time out is ‘an extreme form of ignoring’ (Douglas, Jo .1992:52)

The child is removed from the situation and given absolutely no attention. It really needs to be thought through
thoroughly. It can be difficult to follow through especially if the child refuses to go/stay where you have designated
as the time out space. Also remember a child in your care should never be left on his/her own. If the aim is to
give less attention for ‘bad’ behaviour and you are been pulled away from other children to implement the time
out then it is any thing but affective. Using time in can have appositive effect on behaviour. ‘Time spent with the child
in activities chosen by the child even if it is only for a few minutes of each day can have a positive effect on the child’
(French, G.2000: 114)
Punishments should always fit the crime .If the child is throwing his/her dinner there is no point in taking their
favourite toy away. Disciplining children should always be done in a calm way.Take time out your self, count to ten
(or longer if necessary) before saying what you may later regret. It is equally important that the reasons for the
punishment are clear. Checking out with a child that they understand the consequences of behaviour is important.
Before rushing in with a punishment try ignoring the behaviour.
The rule of thumb is if it’s not harming any one then let it go. One has to be aware however that while they are
not getting attention from you is their behaviour getting attention from any other source.
Help full hints for managing behaviour

• Distract a child
• Substitution, either allows a child to continue the behaviour in a different place or with a different implement.
So a child may be given the choice to continue hammering but not with something that is liable to break. Or
they may be told that they can play ball but not inside.
• Modify the environment. By adding sand or water for example a child who is very excited can be calmed down.
• Praise children.
• Provide clear limits and boundaries on a child’s behaviour.
• Use positive statements instead of negative for example feet on the ground instead of don’t put your feet
there.
• Provide experiences, which the child finds interesting.
• Talk about the problem this may help older children to express their feelings calmly.
• Show a child that you care for them despite lapses in their behaviour.
• Good supervision will avoid squabbles and undesirable behaviour taking place.
• Explain the rules.We don’t push because someone might fall and get hurt.
• Always inform the parents if a serious incident has occurred.
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Behaviour Linked to stages of Child’s Development
These are only a guideline to help understand children’s behaviour and how best to respond to this behaviour.
At age 1-2 years children:

• Have developed their own personalities and are sociable with close family and friends.
• Can still become shy and anxious when parents or carers are out of sight.
• Are developing their speech and can attract attention by calling out or crying.
• Can become possessive over toys but can often be distracted to something else.
• Are discovering they are separate individuals.
• Are self-centred (see things from their point of view).
• Are gaining mobility, improving their ability to explore their surroundings – this results in conflicts – often
regarding safety.
• Begin to understand the meaning of “no” and firm boundaries can be set
• Can be frustrated by their own limitations but resist adult help,

• Are not yet able to share easily.
• Are developing greater awareness of their separate identities.
• Are developing their language abilities which help them to communicate their needs and wishes more clearly
and to understand “ in a minute”.
• Can still be distracted from the cause of their anger.
• Have tantrums (usually when parents or carers are present) when frustrated – possibly caused by their efforts
to become self-reliant e.g. Feeding themselves or dressing themselves – or having ideas which the adult does
not want them to carry out (more about tantrums below).
• Experience a range of feelings- being very affectionate and co-operative one minute and resistant the next.
• Are aware of the feelings of others and can respond to them.

• Are very aware of others and imitate them – especially in their play. With developing speaking and listening
skills they are liable to repeat swear words they hear.
• Are more able to express themselves through speech and, therefore, there is often a reduction in physical
outbursts. However they are still likely to hit back if provoked.
• Can be impulsive and will be less easily distracted.
• Become more sociable in their play and may have favourite friends.
• Can, sometimes, be reasoned with and are just becoming aware of the behaviour codes in different places or
situations.
• Like, and seek, adult approval and appreciation of their efforts.

• Can behave appropriately at mealtimes and during other “routine” activities and may begin to understand why
“Please” and “Thank you” (or their equivalent) are important.
• Are able to share and take turns but often need help.
• Are more aware of others’ feelings and will be concerned if someone is hurt.
• Are becoming more independent and self-assured but still need adult comfort when ill or tired.
• Will respond to reason, can negotiate and be adaptable but can still be distracted.
• Are sociable and becoming confident communicators able to make more sense of their environment. There
will continue to be conflicts which they cannot resolve on their own.
• Can Sometimes be determined, may argue and show aggression
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• Understand that different rules apply in different places, e.g. home, school, grandparents house etc. and can
adapt their behaviour accordingly.
• Are developing control over their feelings- they argue with adults when they feel secure and need to feel there
are firm boundaries in place.
• Will respond to reason and can negotiate but are less easily distracted – anger can last longer and they need
time to calm down.
• Are able to hide their feelings in some situations.
• Can co-operate in group play but are not yet ready for team games.
• May show off and boast e.g. when they celebrate an achievement.
• Will continue to need adult support to resolve conflicts.
• Will share and take turns and begin to have an understanding of what is “fair” if given an explanation.

• Can quickly adapt behaviour to suit the situation.
• Can play games with rules.
• Can argue their viewpoints.
• Are growing in confidence and becoming independent.
• Are developing some moral values and understanding of “right and wrong”.
• Can be friendly and co-operative.
• Can control how they feel much of the time but there are still times when they want to do things their way
and quarrels develop.
The Behaviour Linked to stages of Child’s Development section was extracted from
Meggitt, C. Stevens, J. and Bruce,T. (2000).An Introduction to Child Care and Education, Hodder & Stoughton, pp. 218-220.
We hope this section gives you an insight and understanding of children’s behaviour.
Equally we hope that you find the information on changing children’s behaviour a useful tool that will enable you
to improve the quality of care you provide for children in your home.
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20
Food & Nutrition
SECTION FOUR
FOOD &
NUTRITION
Section 4: Food & Nutrition:
Feeding Babies and Children:

The following guidelines are designed for carers of babies and young children. Our aim is to give clear and practical
information on healthy food and drink choices for babies aged 6-12 months and from 1 year onward.
Babies Aged 6-12 Months:

Babies grow very quickly during the first year of life – infants will triple their birth weight and double their length.
Breast milk alone provides all nourishment that a baby needs up to 6 months.We recommend that breast feeding
should continue together with a healthy, balanced diet for up to two years or longer, if the mother wishes. For
babies who are not breast fed, formula milk is the next best choice. Cow’s milk is not suitable for children under
1 year.
When to start solids?

Spoon feeding solids should be started at 6 months for a breastfed baby, or at 4-6 months for a formula fed baby.
We do not recommend giving solids before 17-18 weeks (this includes giving babies any foods such as baby rice
or rusks)
Never put rusks, cereals or other foods into the bottle – this makes the feed too thick and may be harmful to
baby.
How to start?
• Make sure you have plenty of time
• Choose a time when baby is not too hungry
• Give food first and then follow with breast milk or formula milk
• Offer one new food at a time
• Start with one teaspoon per day. Slowly increase to 2-3 teaspoons per day
21
The following table gives details of what foods and drinks to introduce and when.
Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

First foods Over 6 months 9-12 months
Suitable • Puréed fruit and You can now add • Increase the variety
foods vegetables • Well cooked eggs of food in baby’s diet
• Gluten free cereals e.g. • Breakfast cereals • Most family foods
baby rice made up with (containing gluten) are now suitable
breast milk, formula • Bread and Pasta (check below for
milk, boiled water or • Cheese foods which still need
water from cooking • Yogurt/fromage frais to be avoided)
vegetables • Pasteurised cows
• Pureed meat, peas, beans milk can be used in
• Pureed potatoes small amounts for
mixing food
Consistency • Puréed and soft without • Minced or mashed • Chunky mashed
lumps texture, moving to
• Start with a thin puree, food chopped into
make it thicker as baby bite sized pieces.
learns to take food from • Serve some finger
a spoon. foods which can be
picked up by baby
Suitable • Breast milk • Continue to give • Continue to give
drinks • Formula milk breast/formula milk, breast/formula milk,
• Cooled, boiled water cool boiled water. cool boiled water.
(if thirsty) • Well diluted pure • Well diluted
unsweetened fruit unsweetened fruit
juice (1 part juice: 5 juice may be offered
parts cool boiled at mealtimes
water) may be
offered at mealtimes
• Encourage baby to
drink from a beaker
Foods to • Foods which contain • Whole peanuts • Whole peanuts
avoid gluten e.g. bread, pasta, • Unpasteurised cheese • Unpasteurised cheese
wheat, rye, oats, barley (will say ‘made with • Undercooked eggs
and breakfast cereals raw milk’ on label) • Salt/Gravy/packet
• Cow’s milk • Undercooked eggs soups
• Yogurts, fromage frais • Salt/Gravy/packet
• Cheese soups
• Whole nuts and foods
which contain peanuts
• Eggs
Note:
• Babies who start spoon feeds at 6 months of age should move quickly from the stage 1 pureed foods to
mashed, lumpy and finger foods.
• From about 6 months onwards, baby’s own iron stores begin to run out. It is important to introduce iron
rich foods from 6 months onwards: lean meat, cereals, beans, eggs (well cooked) and green vegetables e.g.
broccoli.
• Commercial foods (jars and packets of baby foods) can be expensive. They are useful when travelling or
going out for the day. Choose savoury meals rather than sweetened desserts, which are high in sugar. Try
not to use commercial foods every day.
• Always stay with baby when they are eating
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One Year Onwards:
Use the food pyramid as a guide to healthy food and drink choices. For younger children start with smaller and
fewer servings and increase up to the guidelines recommended, according to the child’s own growth and appetite.
• At this stage most of the food eaten by the rest of the family should be suitable
• Try a wide variety of foods, tastes and textures
• Give regular small meals. Some children may need snacks in between such as yogurts, fruit or bread
• Encourage children to have about one pint of whole cow’s milk, per day. Drinking more than this can affect
their appetite for food
• Do not give low-fat milk before 2 years or skimmed milk before 5 years
• From now on, all drinks should be from a cup rather than a bottle
• Avoid giving sweets, chocolate and other sugary foods and drink. These harm the teeth, especially if taken
often.They will take away baby’s appetite for more healthy food.
• Do not offer whole nuts until the child is at least 5 years old.They might choke!
• Make meals a social occasion
• Remember, you are teaching a healthy eating pattern for life. Set a good example by eating healthy meals with
plenty of variety yourself.
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Suitable snacks:
Children need lots of energy for growth and development, but they have small tummies.They may not be able to
eat large amounts at mealtimes. Here are some healthy snack ideas to help children get enough energy:
• Fresh fruit e.g. pears, satsumas, bananas, kiwi fruit (cut up into pieces if necessary)
• Cheese cubes, slices or strings
• Crackers or rice cakes
• Bread – toast, rolls, baps, pitta bread
• Fruit brack, malt loaf, banana bread
• Scones- plain, fruit, wholemeal
• Small sandwiches
• Yogurt/Fromage frais
• Homemade milkshake using yogurt and fruit
• Unsweetened breakfast cereal with milk (don’t add sugar)
• Homemade soup
• Vegetable slices, sticks or wedges
• Milk
What are suitable drinks?

Remember, a cup or a beaker without a lid is recommended for children over one year.
• Water and milk are the best drink choices for children.They can be given between meals and with meals
• Unsweetened pure fruit juice (diluted 1 part juice: 5 parts water) can be given with meals.Avoid giving between
meals to prevent tooth decay.
• Sugar free squashes contain artificial sweeteners and are generally not recommended for young children. If
given occasionally, you should dilute them well (1 part squash: 8 parts water)
• Fizzy drinks (minerals) are not suitable drinks for children. They contain a lot of sugar and acid, which harm
teeth. Fizzy drinks also fill up little tummies
• Diet fizzy drinks contain artificial sweeteners.They are not suitable for young children.They have acid in them,
which can harm teeth.
• Children will need extra drinks if they are not well with a raised temperature
Remember: teeth should be gently cleaned with a soft brush and water as soon as they appear. Do not use
toothpaste for children under 2 years of age. Use a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day for children
over 2 years.
You can get more detailed information in two booklets ‘Starting to spoon feed your baby’ and ‘Food for young
children’. Contact the Health Promotion Service: phone (01) 8823415/3416 or www.healthpromotion.ie.
24
Child Protection
SECTION FIVE
CHILD
PROTECTION
Section 5: Child Protection:
‘All early years practitioners working with children have to be aware of child abuse and consider their own role in protecting
children’ (Tassoni, p et al, 2005:567)
In this current climate no Childminder can afford to be lax about information in relation to child abuse. Every
Childminder must know the following:
• The Law
• Signs and symptoms
• How to respond to a child when he/she discloses abuse.
• Standard reporting procedures.
• Intimate care of children in your care.
• The role of the Childminder.
• Keeping secrets.
The law:
There are two pieces of legislation which one must be aware of when dealing with child abuse;The 1991 Childcare
Act and The United Nations Convention on the rights of the child (This was signed into law in Ireland in 1992).
The 1991 Childcare Act is the legislative basis for the protection of children in this country.
The U. N. Convention on the Rights of the Child is essentially a statement of children’s rights. (The
government publications office on Molesworth Street can be contacted for full details on the above).
Children First are the national guidelines for the protection of young children in Ireland. It is in this document
that you the Childminder will find all of the relevant information in relation to child protection and your roles and
responsibilities. It will also give you guidance on whom you should report to and how you should make this report.
In addition to the above it discusses definitions of abuse and looks at signs and symptoms of abuse. A copy of
these guidelines can be obtained from the Government Publications Office, Molesworth St, Dublin 2.The cost is
€6.35.The Department of Health and Children have a limited number of copies which are available free of charge.
They are also available on their website (www.dohc.ie). We recommend that all childminders do children’s first
training, which is provided by the Health Service Executive.
Signs and Symptoms of child abuse:

Child abuse can be categorised into four different groups.They are as follows:
• Neglect
• Physical
• Emotional
• Sexual Abuse
It is important to note that children can be subjected to many different forms of abuse at the same time.While
it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of abuse it is equally important not to jump to conclusions.
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Child neglect should be suspected in cases of:
• Abandonment or desertion
• Children persistently being left alone without adequate care and supervision
• Malnourishment, lacking food, inappropriate food or erratic feeding
• Lack of warmth
• Lack of adequate clothing
• Lack of protection and exposure to danger including moral danger or lack of supervision appropriate to the
child’s age
• Persistent failure to attend school
• Non-organic failure to thrive i.e. child not gaining weight not alone due to malnutrition but also due to
emotional deprivation
• Failure to provide adequate care for the child’s medical problems
• Exploited overworked
Emotional abuse can be defined in reference to the following indices. However, it should
be noted that no one indicator is conclusive of emotional abuse.
• Rejection
• Lack of praise and encouragement
• Lack of comfort and love
• Lack of attachment
• Lack of proper stimulation (e.g. fun and play)
• Lack of continuity of care (e.g. frequent moves)
• Serious over-protectiveness
• Inappropriate non-physical punishment (e.g. locking in bedrooms)
• Family conflicts and/or violence
• Every child who is abused sexually, physically or neglected is also emotionally abused
• Inappropriate expectations of a child’s behaviour - relative to his/her age and stage of Development
Signs and symptoms of Physical Abuse

• Unsatisfactory explanations or varying explanations for the following events are highly suspicious:
• Bruises (see below for more detail)
• Fractures
• Swollen joints
• Burns/Scalds(see below for more detail)
• Abrasions/Lacerations
• Hemorrhages (retinal, subdural)
• Damage to body organs
• Poisonings - repeated (prescribed drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to thrive
• Coma/Unconsciousness
• Death
• There are many different forms of physical abuse but skin, mouth and bone injuries are the most common.
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Signs and Symptoms of Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse often covers a wide spectrum of abusive activities. It rarely involves just a single incident and
usually occurs over a number of years. Child sexual abuse frequently happens within the family. Intra-familial abuse
is particularly complex and difficult to deal with.
Carers and professionals should be alert to the following physical and behavioural signs:-
• Bleeding from the vagina/anus
• Difficulty/pain in passing urine/faeces
• An infection may occur secondary to sexual abuse, which may or may not be a definitive sexually transmitted
disease. Professionals should be informed if a child has a persistent vaginal discharge or has warts/rash in
genital area.
• Noticeable and uncharacteristic change of behaviour
• Hints about sexual activity
• Age - inappropriate understanding of sexual behaviour
• Inappropriate seductive behaviour
• Sexually aggressive behaviour with others
• Uncharacteristic sexual play with peers/toys
• Unusual reluctance to join in normal activities which involve undressing, e.g. games/swimming.
Particular behavioural signs and emotional problems suggestive

of child abuse in young children (0-10 yrs):
• Mood change, e.g. child becomes withdrawn, fearful, acting out;
• Lack of concentration (change in school performance)
• Bed wetting, soiling
• Psychosomatic complaints; pains, headaches
• Skin disorders
• Nightmares, changes in sleep patterns
• School refusal
• Separation anxiety
• Loss of appetite
• Isolation
Particular behavioural signs and emotional problems suggestive of

child abuse in older children (10 yrs +):
• Mood change, e.g. depression, failure to communicate
• Running away
• Drug, alcohol, solvent abuse
• Self mutilation
• Suicide attempts
• Delinquency
• Truancy
• Eating disorders
• Isolation
• All signs/indicators need careful assessment relative to the child’s circumstances.
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How to respond to a child who discloses abuse.
The following points will guide you the Childminder as to how to respond to a child if he/she discloses that they
have been abused.
• Reassure the child, telling them you are glad they have told you and that she has done the right thing by telling.
• Believe the child and tell them that you believe them.
• Let the child know that it was not their fault.
• Listen to the child don’t interrupt and don’t ask questions.
• Explain to the child that in order to solve the problem you will need to get help from other people.
• Write down what they have said as soon as possible after the event.
• Empathise.
• Support the child.
• Observe confidentiality.
• Go at a child’s pace, don’t push them for details that is your agenda not theirs.
• Inform the Health Service Executive.
• Do not promise secrecy, otherwise the child will feel no adult can be trusted.
• Do not pass comment on the abuser, a comment like he/ she is terrible or an awful person will only leave the
child confused. Remember the child will have mixed feelings about their abuser. They may not like what has
happened to them but they could also love the person who has abused them. Also if taken to court the
prosecution could argue that they got the ideas from you.
• Don’t act shocked.
• Don’t reject the child or make them feel they shouldn’t talk about the abuse.
• Don’t promise to make their lives better or stop the abuse. If you fail you have only let the child down.
Standard Reporting Procedure

If child abuse is suspected or alleged, the following steps should be taken by members of
the public or professionals who come into contact with children:
(i) A report should be made to the health service executive in person, by phone or in writing. Each H S E area
has a social worker on duty for a certain number of hours each day.The duty social worker is available to meet
with, or talk on the telephone, to persons wishing to report child protection concerns.
(ii) It is generally most helpful if persons wishing to report child abuse concerns make personal
contact with the duty social worker.This will facilitate the social worker in gathering as much
information as possible about the child and his or her parents/carers.
(iii) In the event of an emergency, or the non availability of health board staff, the report
should be made to An Garda Síochána.This may be done at any Garda Station.
NOTE: A suggested template for a Standard Reporting Form is available in the children’s first document. This is
for use by staff and volunteers in organisations who work with children or who are in contact with children. If a
report is made by phone, this form should be forwarded subsequently to the health service executive.
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Intimate care of children in your care:
In order to protect the children in your care, and indeed your self, it is important that you agree in advance with
the parent /guardian what type of care you will provide for the child .Some type of care will be necessary, for
example changing a small child’s nappy. However it must be stated that if you have agreed with the parent that you
will change the child’s nappy, that it is you who performs this task, and not another friend or relative. It might be
convenient for you but upsetting for a small child.What happens if a child in your care needs help in the toilet? If
you haven’t agreed with the parent in advance that you can do this and the child tells his/her parents that you
were in the toilet with them then that might be a cause for concern for them.You are leaving the child and you’re
self in a vulnerable position.
If you are unsure about what sort of intimate care you should be involved in, it is useful to compile a list and agree
it with the parents. Remember what is acceptable in your family may not be acceptable in the child’s family for
whom you care.
Tickling may not be seen as harmful however it must be noted it is often part of the grooming process and
therefore should not take place.
The role of the childminder:

By being open to the possibility of abuse and being aware of the signs and symptoms of abuse a Childminder can
protect children in their care. It is your responsibility to learn as much as possible about this area of childcare. It
is also important that you listen to children in your care. Good supervision is also important, observing children
can give you good insight and information. Make sure that any one who helps you out is of good character and
has no criminal record or convictions relating to children. Encourage children to talk openly about their feelings.
Teach children how to protect them selves. Example of activities includes the following:
• ‘Make sure that children know what to do if a stranger approaches them.

• Make sure that children know what to do if they get lost
• Help children understand that they have rights over their bodies.
• Help children realise that they have can break ‘secrets’ if they don’t like the secret.
• Encourage children to think about who they can talk to if they have a problem.’
(Tassoni, P, et al, 2005:583.)
The following points clearly highlight the role of the Childminder in relation to child protection:
• Supportive, not investigative, Judgement re abuse should be left to the professionals.
• Observe date and document children’s behaviour and injuries. Be factual about your recordings. For example
she cried rather than she was very upset. It is also important to be aware of the relationship between
parent/guardian.
• Check out how injuries happened. An account of an accident should be the same.
• You should see yourself as a conduit of information.
• Seek advice.
A very important point to remember is touching should be in response to the need of the child.You should avoid
breast, buttocks and groin.Touching should be open, not secretive. It is important to be governed by a child’s age
and stage of development.
In the Children First guidelines the advice given is that there are three steps in identifying child abuse, these are
as follows:
• Consider the possibility
• Look for signs
• Record the information.
Keeping Secrets
Children who have been abused will usually have been told to keep the abuse a secret. Children can be often told
that if they break the secret that some thing bad will happen to them and they will be punished.They need to be
told that it is ok to break a secret if they don’t like the secret. In order that a child is not confused it is better
not to ask children to keep anything a secret, not even a birthday. It would be better to tell children that they are
going to give someone a surprise.
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30
Safety in the Home
SECTION SIX
SAFETY IN THE
HOME
Section 6: Safety in the home
Young children are very often busy and active they do not have a sense of danger. Equally they do not have the
ability to see potential danger in the things they are doing. Accidents happen quickly, and they are the most
common cause of death in toddlers and young children.As a Childminder you are responsible for the Health and
Safety of children in your care. In order to ensure children are kept safe Meggit, C et al, recommend you follow a
plan, this is as follows
• Understand safety issues relevant to childcare

• Be a good role model
• Do a hazard analysis
• Check equipment regularly
• Teach children how to play safely
• Carry through on any health and safety rules which you may have set
• Understand the importance of preventative health measures
• Learn First Aid techniques
• Keep an accident record book
It is important to be aware of the type of accidents that children can get involved in. According to the Child
Accident Prevention Trust the main causes of accidents are
• Falls
• Striking a person or object
• Cutting, piercing or crushing an object
• Suffocation and Choking
C.A.P.T. also says that statistics show that boys are more likely to be involved in accidents than girls.
Role modelling:
Role modelling is a key way children learn. If they notice you taking care of safety in the home they are more likely
to follow your lead.When out with children it is important that they see you using safety crossings etc. Never be
tempted to cut corners where safety is concerned, children will copy you and their safety will be compromised.
Keep your home as tidy as possible. Don’t allow children to leave toys in a dangerous location. Help them to tidy
up after each game or activity that they get involved in.This will ensure their own and others safety. Never leave
a wet surface unattended, this is a potential hazard.
Identifying risks and potentially dangerous situations:

It is essential that you go through each area in your home and identify possible causes of accidents. Using the main
causes of accidents listed above try to identify where in your home a child is most likely to fall for example. Once
you have identified the area of risk you can then take steps to eliminate that risk.
• Choose toys that are age appropriate and suitable to the child in your care .
• If you care for a mixed age group don’t presume that it’s okay to leave their toys all together.A toy containing
small parts can be a choking hazard to a small baby.
• Make sure that all toys you buy conform to recommended safety standards. Internationally recognised symbols
would include the C E symbol, very often found on toys, and the lion mark. The CE symbol is the European
safety mark and the lion mark is the British safety mark.
• It does need to be stressed however that children should never be left unsupervised.
31
Research carried out by the Customer Association of Ireland concluded that these standards were very often
minimal standards. In addition to the above one should look out for potential dangers with all toys you purchase.
You could ask yourself the following questions
• Could fingers get caught?
• Are there any small parts or sharp edges?
• On soft toys is the fur loose?
• What is the age marking on the toy?
• Are the toys in good order? If not do they need to be thrown out
When toys have been opened dispose of packaging immediately as plastic bags can cause suffocation.
Out Door Play:

If children are playing out doors you should follow the steps below in order to ensure their safety
• Check the outside area immediately prior to use to ensure that it is clean and that there is nothing unsuitable
in the garden.
• Make sure the surface is suitable for children to play on.
• Inspect the fencing in the garden to make sure a child could not escape.
• Pay as much notice to the safety of equipment in the garden as you would the equipment in the home. It is
very important to check for broken equipment and disregard any equipment that is in need of repair.
• Verify that all plants are suitable to have for children.
• Show children the safe way of using the equipment in the garden.
• If playing out doors in sunny whether be sure to protect each child.Apply sun cream (permission would need
to be sought from parents) and make sure they are well covered up. Never go out in the hottest part of the
day.
• If out in the sun provide shade for the child.
Preventative Health Measures:

As a Childminder you should be aware of the ways in which you can promote good health. I have given a list below
which is not listed in order of preference.
• Familiarise your self with the many childhood diseases.
• Decide what your policy is in relation to caring for a sick child.
• Teach children how to wash their hands.
• Demonstrate to a child how to cover his/ her mouth when coughing.
• Make sure food is stored at a safe temperature.
• All food should be prepared in a safe and hygienic way.
• Ensure your home is hygienically clean at all times.
• Clean toys regularly.
• Door handles should be washed daily.
• Use disposable hand towels.
• Keep all poisonous substances out of reach.
• Do not use pillows for babies.
• Never leave children alone in the house.
• Have a motto of every thing in its place.
• Use disposable gloves when dealing with bodily fluids.
• Childminders should update their knowledge on health and safety on a regular basis.
• Adequate ventilation is essential.
• In the interests of health and safety childminders should operate a no smoking policy. Passive smoking is
harmful to children and adults alike.
If you consider the following points which were taken from the Pamela Minett’s book
It will give you additional help in preventing accidents. Accidents are more likely to happen
• at times of stress, for example when in a hurry, during an argument, or when worried
• When parents are under the influence of alcohol etc
• Children who are over or under protected
• To children who are neglected
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Fire Safety:
According to the National Safety Council there are three ‘golden rules’ to keep in order to keep your house safe
they are as follows
• Prevention- Assess your home and eliminate fire hazards
• Protection –Install smoke alarms
• Planning –Plan and perfect an escape drill
• Install at least one fire alarm on all floors
• Prepare a fire escape plan in advance. Children should be involved in the fire drill on a regular basis.
• Childminder should also ensure they have all emergency contact details are close to hand, (In a mobile phone
or file).
• Have a fire extinguisher and fire blanket in your kitchen. It is vitally important to make sure all equipment is
well maintained.
• Unplug all appliances after use and never over load sockets
• Do not leave newspapers or any inflammable items close to a fire or heater
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children
• If using an open fire never leave it unattended and always use a well fitted fire guard
• Never use candles around small children
• Kitchen vents should be cleaned and properly maintained
• Chimneys should be well cleaned at least twice a year
• All Radiators should have a cover on them
Safety in Cars:
Children must always be belted into a car seat. ‘ With out a seat belt 3 out of 4 people will be killed or seriously injured
in a 30 mph crash’( National Safety Council.)
In addition to injuring themselves an unrestrained child could seriously damage another passenger. It is equally
important that seat belts are correctly fitted.They must be age appropriate and belted through the child restraint
correctly.A child should never be held on someone’s knee.The child must be fitted in a seat appropriate to their
age and size.The National Safety Council gives the following advice in relation to child restraints.
Type of Child Restraint Weight Range Approx Age Range

Rearward-facing baby seat For babies up to 10 kgs (22 lbs) birth to 6-9 months
For babies up to 13kg (29lbs) birth to 12-15 months
Forward-facing child seat 9-18 kgs (20-40 lbs) 9 months - 4 years
Booster Seat 15 - 25 kgs (33 - 55 lbs) 4 to 6 years
It is important that the air bag in the front of the car is adjusted if using a car seat in the front.
33
Check List for Safety in the Home:
Hall
• Is the floor covering suitable and in good repair?
• Are there covers on the sockets?
• Is there a good quality well fitted gate on the stairs?
• Is it generally clear of clutter?
• Are there any trailing flexes?
• Does the door shut safely?
• Cover on the radiator?
• Are there any mats on the floor?
• Are there clear instructions on how to call the emergency services and the local doctor?
• Are there any loose cords from blinds or curtains?
• Is the furniture adequately fire retardant?
• Is there a smoke detector?
• Is there a hand rail fitted on the stairs?
Kitchen
• Does the cooker have a safe guard?
• Are the controls difficult to reach and switch on?
• Are there tablecloths?
• Is the floor covering safe and suitable?
• Are there safety catches on the windows?
• Are there any mats on the floor?
• Are poisonous substances kept in a locked press?
• Are the sharp items kept out of reach?
• Are there safety devices on the doors to prevent children catching their fingers?
• Are there safety covers on the sockets?
• Are sharp corners protected?
• Is there a fire extinguisher and fire blanket ?
• Is there a first aid box?
• Is there a cover on the radiator?
• Are saucepan handles always turned in?
• Are dangerous items such as kettles and Toasters out of reach?
• Are child restraints used on all chairs?
• Is the fridge adequate enough to cater for the extra storage space required when minding additional children
in the home?
34
Dinning Room
• Is there a cover on the heater?
• Are there safety catches on the window?
• Is there a cloth on the table?
• Is the floor covering suitable and safe?
• If there is a fire place does it have a well fitted fire guard?
• Are any sharp edges protected?
• Are there safety devices on the doors to prevent children catching their fingers?
• Are there safety catches on the windows?
• Is the T.V. placed against a back wall .(it should be to prevent small hands from getting access to back surfaces).
• Are all appliances not in use unplugged?
• Are there any items in front of the windows that would help a child climb?
• Are there any loose cords for blinds or curtains?
• Are all toys in good order?
Toilet
• Are there covers on radiators?
• Are medicines kept out of reach?
• Are children ever left alone? (They should not be, remember a small child can drown in a very small amount
of water)
• Can the door be opened from the outside?
• Are razors kept out of reach?
• Are there slip mats in the bath?
• Are there any loose cords from blinds?
• Is there a thermostat attached to the hot water system? (Water should be thermostatically controlled to 43
degrees Celsius)
Bedrooms
• Is there a suitable floor covering?
• Are there any mats on the floor? (These should be avoided as they can trip children up easily).
• Are there catches on the windows?
• Is there any thing in front of the window that would encourage a child to climb? (If so this is dangerous and
should be removed)
• Are there pillows used for small babies? (They should not be, equally there should be no soft toys left in the
child’s cot)
• Are the materials used in bedding material adequately fire retardant?
• Is there a good quality baby alarm?
35
Out Doors
• Is the fence around the garden well sealed in?
• Are gates well sealed in?
• Are sheds and garages very well locked up?
• Are sandpits covered in when not in use?
• Do you check the garden before use?
• Is the outdoor equipment in good order and properly installed?
• Is there a hand rail fitted on the steps?
• Are children supervised while playing out side?
• If there is a clothes line is it well and truly out of children’s reach?
• Are Rubbish bins should be well sealed?
36
Insurance
SECTION SEVEN
INSURANCE
Section 7: Insurance
Childminders are well advised to ensure they are adequately insured.Top of your agenda has to be the protection
of all children in your care. While you should do all in your power to ensure that accidents do not happen you
must also prepare for the unexpected. In addition to the above the following points highlight some other valuable
reasons for having insurance.
• Protection for your self
• Peace of mind
• It can be a good selling point for your business
• It is a requirement of the childminding grant
The list below gives you information on insurance companies that provide insurance for childminders. Many home
insurance policies may be extended to cover childminding for up to 2 additional children. If you currently have
home insurance cover it is advisable to consult with your own insurance provider. If you do not have insurance,
the policy offered by Childminding Ireland and Alliance Insurance would cover such situations as childminding in
rented accommodation.
The information provided below was obtained by phoning all of the major insurance companies, both their
national offices and local brokerages. This is not an exhaustive list, but a sample of what is available. Please note
that these prices were valid at the time of printing this document.
1. Alliance Insurance
Burlington House
Burlington Road
Dublin 4
Contact Info:Telephone 01 613 3103
2. AIB Home Insurance

Home Insurance Policy may be extended to cover childminding in the home for up to 6 children.
Total Cost of €100.00 on top of existing home insurance policy.
Contact Info:Telephone 1850 272 625
3. AXA Insurance
Home Insurance policy may be extended to cover childminding in the home for up to 7 children Total Cost
of €100.00 on top of existing home insurance policy. It may also be extended from 8 to 14 children for an
additional €200.00
Costs vary depending on policy.
Contact Info:Telephone 1890 282820
4. Childminding Ireland
Members Insurance Package – covers up to 6 children including Childminders own children up to the age
of 14 years.
Total Cost €245.00
Insurance €180.00
Administration Charge of €20.00
Membership €45.00 for the first year
(Annual renewal membership is €30.00)
Contact Info:Telephone 0404 64007; Email: childm@indigo.ie
37
38
Grants
SECTION EIGHT
GRANTS
Section 8: Grants
Grants for Childminders:

The Childminders Development Grant is designed to assist Childminders, already providing a
Childminding service in their own homes, to enhance safety/quality in the service through the
purchase of small capital items, equipment, toys or minor adaptation costs. It may also give
financial assistance to new or prospective Childminders with their initial set up costs.
All applicants must be committed to maintaining/improving the quality of their Childminding

service and, except where they are already notified as childcare providers to the Health Service Executive, will
be required to undergo a short Quality Awareness Course.
Eligibility for funding

The maximum grant available to a Childminder, who fully meets the criteria of the scheme, is 90% of total
expenditure
i.e. spend €700.00 and claim back 90% = €630.00
Are you?
• Providing a childminding service in your own home?
OR
• Planning to provide a new childminding service in your own home?
Are you?
• Providing or planning to provide childminding services for at least 3 children on a part-time basis?
(Not including your own children)
OR
• 1 child on full-time and 1 child part-time? (Not including your own children)
Have you?
• Completed a Childminding Quality Awareness Programme (QAP) or an equivalent Childminding course?
OR
• Are you notified as a Childminder to the Health Service Executive Pre-School Services?
(Regulations 1996)(this applies to those minding four or more pre-school children.)
OR
• Voluntarily Notified to the Health Service Executive or Fingal County Childcare Committee.
You Must
• Provide evidence of appropriate insurance
&
• Operate as a Childminder for a minimum of two years following receipt of the grant
39
Examples of what the Childminders Development Grant can be used for?
Safety Equipment Equipment Toys/Outdoor

Fire blanket Cot Sandpit
Smoke alarms Highchair Swing
Carbon Monoxide Car seat Slide
First Aid Kit Buggy Bike/trike
Socket covers Changing unit Dolls pram/buggy
Cupboard locks Potty/toilet seat
Stair gates
Fireguard
Minor Adaptation Toys for Various Age Groups Equipment

Garden fence Books Outdoor /Indoor play
Garden gate Art materials and safety equipment
Banisters cover Games
Radiator Cover Jigsaws
Play mat
General Information:
• Applicant may be approved one grant only, subject to the maximum eligible expenditure.
• An applicant who has received funding from another scheme under the Equal
Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 is not eligible for this funding.
• The application for CMDG funding should be completed on the standard application
form and submitted to the Fingal County Childcare Committee (FCCC).
• Applicants are required to complete the prescribed Childminding “Quality Awareness
Programme” (or equivalent training) or be notified to the Health Service Executive or voluntarily
notified to the Health Service Executive.
• On the part of the applicant Childminder, no purchases should be made until grant
approval notification is received from the FCCC.
• The Childminder is required to produce itemised original receipts for eligible expenditure.
• All grant approvals will be subject to a letter of agreement signed by the Childminder with the FCCC.
• If a successful applicant ceases to childmind within two years of receipt of grant aid, the FCCC may take the
necessary steps to recoup the funding in accordance with the letter of agreement with the Childminder.
40
FCCC Childminder Development Grant:
Application Form
Section I Applicant Details

Name of Applicant
Role/Job Title
Address of Applicant (please provide

the address where the childminding
takes place)
Telephone (land line)
Mobile Telephone
Fax
E-mail
Insurance policy number (relevant to

the childminding service)
Contact details for all correspondence

in connection with this application
(if different than above)
Section II Previous Experience

Please outline your childcare experience
(to-date) relevant to this application
41
Please specify any training you have
undertaken related to your role as a
childminder
Section III The Funding Request
ITEM COST (€)
State exactly what this

funding request is for – as
appropriate, provide detailed
list of items to be purchased
(Add additional page, if

necessary)
What is the total cost of your Childminding Initiative project

(i.e. 100% of the project cost)
How much is requested from the Childminding Initiative

(i.e. 90% of total project cost up to a maximum of €630)
42
Section IV Details of the Childminding Service
Please indicate ✓ if you are currently minding 4 or more pre-school children. YES NO
Are you required to notify the Health Service Executive of your Childminding service?
Have you voluntarily notified the Health Service Executive or the FCC of your Childminding service?
If yes, in what year did you first notify?
* Current (if applicable) * Target – as a result of this grant aid…
F/T P/T F/T P/T

Number of childcare places you can Number of places you will provide
provide per day (when full) per day in future (when full)
What is the age range of the children What age range will you cater for
currently catered for in the future
What are your current operating What will be your operating hours
hours (e.g. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.) in the future
How many weeks per year do you How many weeks per year will
currently operate your service you operate in the future
How many days per week do you How many days per week will
currently operate your service you operate in the future
Section V Declaration
I, .............................................................................. (INSERT SIGNATURE),

apply to the Fingal County Childcare Committee for a grant of .............................................. (INSERT AMOUNT) towards
the proposal described in this application and declare that all the information provided is true and complete to the
best of my knowledge and belief.
I acknowledge that any funds awarded must be used for the purpose stated and that, if my application is successful,
I will operate as a Childminder for a minimum of two years from the date of receipt of the grant aid.
I agree to send full details of the expenditure including original itemised receipts to the Fingal County Childcare
Committee in support of my payment claim.
I understand that I may receive a check visit from the Fingal County Childcare Committee or from Pobal Ltd, that I will
receive advance notice of such a visit and I agree to provide reasonable assistance during such a visit.
I confirm that I have not received any other

funding from the Equal Opportunities
Childcare Programme 2000-2006 ■ (please sign ...............................................................................)
Name (BLOCK CAPITALS)
Signature Date
Completed application forms should be sent to:

FINGAL COUNTY CHILDCARE COMMITTEE, ABCO KOVEX Building,
Swords Business Park, Swords, Co. Dublin.
43
Explanatory Note for Filling in Service Impact Figures on application form
Please read this carefully before completing your current and future/target figures
The table on your application form is to gather information on (a) your service as it is currently operated (if
applicable), and (b) your service as it will operate if you are approved an EOCP Childminders Development Grant
by your City/County Childcare Committee.
Current - “Current” information refers to what your service is providing as at the present time (i.e. at the time
of completing this grant application).
Target - The “target” figures are those that the applicant is committing to providing with the assistance of the
EOCP grant (if approved). Careful consideration should be given to these “targets” to ensure that while they are
ambitious and challenging they are also achievable and realistic.
Full time places

A full-time childcare place is a place available continuously for any length of time over 3 hours 30 minutes. In other
words, a service available for 3 hours 30 minutes is part-time, and a service available for a continuous period of
3 hours 40 minutes is full-time. Please note that if a service is available to children in the morning and again in the
afternoon, on each occasion for 3 hours (e.g. 9am-12pm and 1pm–4pm) the places are NOT considered full time.
For a place to be considered full time, a child must be able to attend for longer than 3.5 hours continuously.
Part time places

A part-time place is a place available continuously for up to and including 3 hours 30 minutes - i.e. 2 hours is part-
time, 3 hours 30 minutes is part time, 3 hours 45 minutes is full-time.
Number of Childcare Places You Can Provide per Day (when full) - This refers to the full capacity of
the service, i.e. the maximum number of places that could be catered for on a single day (irrespective of whether
this number has actually been reached).The maximum capacity must take into account space requirements, etc. If
a service can offer, for example, 2 full time places OR 4 part time places, please do NOT enter both as this will
be read as 2 full time AND 4 part time places.
Operating hours - The operating hours are the hours each day that the facility is open for service. If a service
is open for the same hours each day, it is only necessary to give details of the hours. If a service has different hours
each day, give the days and the hours. Operating hours should be recorded as follows: e.g. 8am-5pm, 9am-6pm,
etc. If your service closes for any period during the day (e.g. lunchtime), this must be reflected in the operating
hours entered on the application form (e.g. 9am-1pm; 2pm-6pm).
Age range catered for - The age range is the age in years and months from the youngest to the oldest age, that
the service can (and intends to) cater for. In order to report an age range on the application form, the service
does not have to have children of this entire age range attending at present, but must be willing and able to
accommodate children within this entire age range. Age ranges should be recorded as follows: e.g. 2.5yrs – 5yrs;
3mths – 6yrs; etc.
Weeks per year - The number of weeks (out of 52) during which the service is open.
Days per week -The number of days within a 7-day period on which a service is offered.
44
Finance & Tax
SECTION NINE
FINANCE
& TAX
Section 9: Finance and Tax
Introduction
Many childminders minding children in their own homes are operating outside the scope of the taxation laws.
They are not part of the formal economy, not paying tax and therefore not able to avail of the benefits of the
social insurance system. Childminders are making a significant contribution to the economy but they themselves
are not part of it. I will set out below some details and information about the Irish tax system, like registering for
tax, looking after your own accounts, filing your tax return, paying tax, paying your social insurance contribution
and the benefits of this. I will go through some of the recent changes announced in the Finance Bill 2006 which
have significant implications for childminders. I hope the information provided will go some way to giving you a
clearer understanding of the Irish taxation system and what your obligations are within that system. As you will
see many of the benefits will outweigh some of the tax costs and in some situations there will be very little tax
to pay because of the low level of profits.
Benefits of Operating in the Formal Economy

• Qualify for Social Insurance Benefits
When paying tax on your profits you are building up your social insurance contributions. If your profit is over
€3,174 in a tax year you will pay a social insurance (PRSI) contribution of 3% subject to a minimum
contribution of €253 in a tax year. Provided you have enough PRSI contributions paid you will be entitled to
the following benefits
• survivors pension
• old age pension
• maternity benefit
• Able to apply for grant aid/funding towards your business
If applying for a bank loan you may need to show accounts to the bank as proof of earnings.Also when applying
for a government grant you will need a tax clearance certificate from the tax authorities which will only be
given if your taxes are in order. A tax clearance certificate is not required for the childminding development
grant.
• Contribute to your own Private pension
You can contribute to your own private pension based on your age and childminding profit. For the 2006 tax
year the details are a follows
Age % of Profit
Under 30 15%
30 – 39 20
40 – 49 25%
50 – 54 30%
55 – 59 35%
60 – 65 40%
45
For example a 51 year old Childminder who had a profit of €9,000 could contribute €2,700 (€9,000 x 30%)
to their pension fund and benefit from tax relief on that contribution. Assuming a 20% tax rate the tax relief
would be €540.
• No worries about being reported to the tax authorities You could be reported to the tax authorities
perhaps by a neighbour or other childminder.This could result in a visit from a tax inspector to your home. If
registered for tax and paying the correct amount of tax you have nothing to worry about.
Irish Taxation System

• The tax year goes from 1 January to 31 December
• The Irish Tax system operates on a self-assessment basis
This means that each individual is responsible for their own taxation affairs.A Childminder would prepare their
own accounts and submit their own tax return.
• Irish Revenue operate a Pay and File system
You must file your tax return by 31st of October after the end of the tax year and pay any balance of tax due
by the same date. For the 2005 tax year the tax return must be filed by 31st October 2006 and any tax due
must also be paid by 31 October 2006. If the tax return is not submitted on time Revenue will apply a
surcharge of up to 10% of the tax liability. Also Revenue can charge interest, calculated at a daily rate, if the
tax due is not paid on time.Therefore you have 10 months from the end of the tax year to submit your tax
return and pay your tax.A useful tip is to file your tax return as soon as possible after the end of the tax year.
Revenue will calculate the tax due, if any, and in some instances you could be due a refund.Therefore you will
know what your final tax liability is early.This will give you sufficient time to have the money available to pay
the balance of tax owing by 31 October and know what your preliminary tax payment (see below) will be for
the current tax year.
• The Tax Return
The tax return is called a Form 11.A shorter version of this form is a Form 11E which should be suitable for
all childminders. (See appendix attached) These forms are available on the Revenue website (www.revenue.ie)
and there is also a detailed guide on how to complete the form also on that website. The tax return will
contain details of all your income and tax credits for a particular tax year. For example if you are taxed jointly
with your spouse in the 2005 tax year you will have to include all details of your joint income to include the
childminding income.
• Preliminary Tax
This is a payment of Income Tax on account for a tax year. A self-employed Childminder must pay a certain
amount of tax by the due date in a tax year. The due date is the 31st of October in a tax year. Therefore
preliminary tax for 2006 must be paid by 31 October 2006.The amount payable is based on 100% of your final
tax liability for the previous tax year. For example if your final tax liability for 2005 was €800 then you would
need to pay a minimum of €800 as your preliminary tax payment for 2006 by 31 October 2006.
In a commencement situation you will not have to pay preliminary tax in the first tax year of the business but
will have to pay it in the second tax year.
Registering for Tax

If you are a self employed Childminder and you want to join the tax system you will first have to register for tax.
To do this you will have to have your own tax number called a PPS number (formerly known as an RSI number)
If you haven’t got your own tax number or you have a number that is your husbands but with a W at the end you
will have to call to your local Department of Social Welfare office to apply for your own number.
To register for tax you will need to fill in a form TR1 which is available from the Revenue website or in your local
tax office (see Form TR1 in appendices)
46
Completing the form
1 On page 1 of the form you will need to complete Part A1, questions 1 to 5, with your general details.
2 On Page 2 you will need to complete section A3. Question 10 can be ignored unless trading under a business
name. Question 11 sets out the legal format and if you are carrying on the business on your own tick the sole
trader box.You can ignore question 12 unless you are carrying on the business at some address that is not
your home. Question 13 (a) deals with the type of business and you can tick the box marked ‘service and
other’ and in question 13 (b) just include childminding services in the box provided. Ignore question 14. In
question 15 state the date in the current tax year the childminding service commenced and you need to
confirm what date accounts will be made up to for question 16. I would suggest 31 December, in line with the
tax year. In question 17 you need to state what your likely income or turnover is going to be for the next 12
months from your childminding service. If you have engaged the services of an accountant include the details
at question 18. If not just leave it blank. Question 19 will not apply to you so leave it blank. Similarly questions
20 and 21 should not be applicable to you.
3 On Page 3, question 22, tick the box to confirm you are registering for tax. For question 23 if the childminding
service is your main source of income tick the box marked “trade” If your main source of income is any of
the other 3 sources mentioned tick the box most appropriate to you. Part C questions 24 to 30 can be ignored
completely as VAT should not be applicable to your business. You can also ignore Part D unless you are
registering as an employer because you have some employees in your business. Please also ignore Part E in
full.
4 Once you are satisfied that the form is filled in correctly please sign and date the form at the declaration
section at the end of page 1.
You will then need to submit the form to the Tax registration section of your local tax office. One Revenue
process the form they will then write to you to confirm that you are registered for Income Tax from the date you
commenced your childminding trade in the tax year. You will be then on the Revenue system and Revenue will
send you your tax return after the end of the tax year.
Keeping Accounts
Under Revenue law you are obliged to keep full and accurate records of your business.You must keep records
for a period of 6 years and failure to keep proper accounts and records can result in a fine of €1,520.The figures
in your accounts must be correct as these figures will be included in your tax return.You may also need accounts
for a non tax related issue such as applying for a loan or mortgage.
Remember that tax is calculated on the profit from your childminding business for a tax year. Income less
allowable expenses is equal to profit.
After the end of the tax year you will need to complete a simple Income and Expenditure account for your
childminding business. If you have engaged the services of an accountant you will need to forward all details of
income and expenses to him/her. If not you should have no difficult doing this yourself.You simply need to add up
all your childminding income for a tax year and deduct (under the various headings) the expenses for that year
to arrive at your profit.
47
Useful Tips!
• Keep a separate childminding business account.
Make sure to keep a record of money received on a weekly basis in a copy book/diary or on computer (or
both) Lodge money regularly so that the lodgements in the bank statements should coincide with the
lodgements in the diary or computer.
• Pay expenses by cheque or direct debit
Where paying by cheque fill in the cheque stub immediately. The expenses will then show up on your bank
statement.
• Always ask for receipts for all cash expenses
Therefore you will have the receipts as proof of expenditure in your accounts.
• Keep all ESB, phone, food and heating bills
A portion of these costs can be offset against your income. (I have set out in the appendices a list of
expenses that can go against your childminding income)
• Allowable Expenses – full and part deductions
In the Income & Expenditure account some expenses can be deducted in full such as the cost of a childminding
seminar or some expense in part such as ESB as you would be using the ESB for the childminding business
and for your private use.The estimate that you make for expenses that you take a part deduction for must be
deducted on what Revenue term “a just and reasonable basis” If you are uncertain as to what is a “just and
reasonable” deduction for an expense against your income you should contact revenue with any queries.
• Be aware of capital costs
Capital costs such as equipment cannot be included as an expense in the Income and Expenditure account.All
equipment required by statutory regulation, cots, buggies, playpens, high chairs, stair gates, fire extinguishers,
fire blankets, sterilisation equipment, door and window locks and toys would be regarded as capital costs.You
do get a tax write off, called capital allowances, of 12.5% per annum against your profit. For example assume
equipment cost €2,000 and assuming you commenced your childminding business on 1 April 2006 the capital
allowances for 2006 would be €187 (€2,000 x 12.5% x 9/12) For the tax years 2007 to 2013 (7 years) the
capital allowances would be €250 for each year and the amount unclaimed of €63 would be claimed in 2014.
This gives a total tax write off of €2,000 (€187 + 250x7 + 63)
• Capital allowances reduce the profit figure
The amount claimed is included in your tax return. Using the same example assuming a profit of €12,000 in
2006 the capital allowances of €187 would reduce the taxable profit to €11,913.
Preparing and Filing your Tax return

After finalising your accounts for a tax year or part of a tax year in a commencement situation you must then
include the figures in your accounts on the income tax return for that year called a Form 11 or a shorter version
the Form 11E.The Form 11E would be sufficient for most taxpayers.The latest form available is for the 2005 tax
year which is 10 pages.
48
Completing the Tax Return
1 Personal Details – Page 2
Please complete your personal details on page 2. If you are married and taxed jointly your spouse’s details will
also need to be included here.
2 The childminding business figures – Page 3
At the top of page 3 include your PPS number. Assuming yours is the only trade tick the self box at 101. At
102 the description of the trade is “childminder” At 103 you include the accounting dates of your business. If
you commenced on the 1st March 2005 then the start date is that date. Assuming you prepared accounts to
31 December 2005 then the end date would be that date. Question 104 only applies if you stopped carrying
on your childminding trade during the tax year you enter the date you stopped. Question 105 is where you
include your profit for the year.Assuming your adjusted profit was €9,000 (see Page 5 below) then that figure
would be entered there. If you had a loss you would enter the figure at 106.The next figure to include is your
Capital allowances figure for the year. This is included at question 110. The rest of the questions on page 3
should not apply to you.
3 Accounts information – Page 4
At the top of the page include your PPS number and at questions 124 and 125 include the accounting dates
for your business which would be the same dates you included on page 3.You enter your income figure that
is on your Income and Expenditure account for the accounting period at 126. The expenses in your Income
and Expenditure account are included under the “Expenses and Deductions” heading. Any salaries wages and
staff costs are included at 131. Question 132 can be ignored. Any professional costs of the business such as
accounting fees can be included at 133. Motor expenses are included at 134 and repairs at 135. It is likely that
most of the childminding business expenses would be included at 138 marked “other expenses” if not already
included in the above categories. At the end you might make sure that the total expenses included in your
Income and Expenditure account equals the total expenses included on your tax return.
4 Page 5
If you have prepared an Income and Expenditure account you can ignore the section marked “Capital Account
& Balance Sheet items” At question 151 include the profit figure from your Income and Expenditure account.
If you had a loss this figure is included at 152. Under the section marked “Adjustments” you will only need to
complete this if some of the figures in your Income and Expenditure account are personal or non business
related. For example, if you included the full cost of your motor expenses for the accounting period in the
Income and Expenditure account you would add back the amount that was not business related. If your total
motor expenses figure was €2,500 for 2005 and 1/2 of this was business related then you would include
€1,250 at question 153 being the necessary adjustment.The same position applies with Light, heat and phone
at 155. It is the adjusted profit figure that is included on page 3 at question 105 (referred to above)
5 Other Income – Page 6
If you or your spouse have other income such as rents deposit interest or dividends this income is included
on page 6 section D. Any employment income of your spouse is included at page 6 section E.
6 Pension contributions & Tax credits – Pages 7 & 8
If you make a private pension contribution the amount claimed is included on page7 at 506 or 507. The tax
credits are also on page 7 and the top of page 8 and you will need to go through these to check if any of the
credits apply to you.
Once you are satisfied that the form is filled in correctly you or your spouse will need to sign the form where
indicated on page 1. Make sure you include your name and address in the box provided at the top of page 1 and
also include your PPS number. Make sure to keep a copy of your tax return for your records before submitting it
to Revenue.You can then submit the form to the return address marked on page 1.
Notice of Assessment
After a few weeks you should then receive a Notice of Assessment from Revenue.The Notice of Assessment is
Revenue confirmation of the figures on your tax return and you should check the figures on the Notice against
your tax return to ensure that the figures are correct and that you got the correct tax credits. The Notice of
Assessment will also show what your final tax liability or tax refund is for the tax year in question. If you owe tax
it will also confirm when the tax should be paid. In a commencement situation you will have until 31 October in
the tax year after commencement to pay the tax. In an ongoing business situation Revenue may look for you to
pay the tax immediately if you didn’t pay the correct amount of Preliminary tax.
49
Tax rates and Tax bands – 2006:
• Tax Rates
The rates of tax are 20% known as the standard rate and 42% called the higher or marginal rate.
• Tax Bands
A single person can earn up to €32,000 at the standard rate. If you are single or widowed with dependent
children you can earn or have a profit of up to €36,000 at the standard rate and above that you will pay tax
at the higher rate. A married couple can earn up to €64,000 at the standard rate which is twice the single
person’s rate.
• Married spouses both working
The married couple earning up to €64,000 at the standard rate is subject to the rule that the maximum one
spouse can earn at the 20% rate is €41,000. This would leave a balance for the other spouse of €23,000 to
give a total of €64,000. For example if your spouse was in employment and earning €50,000 the maximum
he/she could earn at the lower rate would be €41,000 with €9,000 being liable at the higher rate.You could
then earn up to €23,000 at the lower rate. (The tax rates and tax credits for 2005 and 2006 are set
out in the appendix attached)
Finance Bill 2006 - Changes

The most recent Finance Bill published in early February 2006 introduced some significant changes for
childminders who are looking after children in their own home.
• €10,000 Tax Exemption – conditions
1 The exemption applies if the income in a tax year does not exceed €10,000.Where the income exceeds
€10,000 the entire amount is taxable under self assessment. In determing whether the income level
exceeds €10,000 no deductions of any kind are allowed by the Revenue Commisioners (extract from the
memorandum of explanatory section of the finance bill)
2 The service must be provided in the childminder’s own home to not more than 3 children.
3 The exemption must be claimed in the annual tax return
4 The claim for the exemption must be accompanied by evidence that the Childminder has notified their
local County Childcare Committee, that they are providing childminding services. The notification can be
made at any time during or after the tax year to which it relates provided that it is before the 31st of
October of the following year. A separate notification must be made for each tax year for which the
notification is claimed.
• Tax exemption claimed

If this exemption is claimed it does not affect a claim for
1 Mortgage interest relief in respect of your principal private residence

2 Capital gains tax relief on the gain from any sale of your principal private residence
3 Entitlement to the home carer tax credit. If you are minding your own child or a dependent in your home
and claiming the exemption you will qualify for the home carer tax credit.To get the home carer tax credit
you must be taxed jointly with your spouse. It is worth €770 in a tax year.
The Finance Bill is now at committee stage and would be subject to amendments before becoming law. However
it is unlikely that there will be any changes to the tax exemption. One item of note is that childminders claiming
the exemption will still be liable to pay the minimum PRSI contribution of €253. This is good news as the
Childminder can build up their social insurance contributions thus availing of social insurance benefits while still
availing of the tax exemption. It is advisable that the Childminder should still keep proper details of Income and
Expenses, even if availing of this exemption, as they may be asked by Revenue to show evidence that their income
was €10,000 or less in a tax year.
50
Allowable Expenses
Notification Fee: Health Service Executive (full amount)
Membership: To relevant bodies (full amount)
Rent: Rent (not mortgage),

Repairs, General Maintenance and refurbishment (proportion)
Equipment: Any equipment required by statutory regulation, and

Cots, buggies, play-pens, high chairs, stair gates,
fire extinguishers/fire blankets, sterilisation equipment,
door and window locks, toys, glazing and heating.
Capital costs: written off at 12.5% per year.
Services: Heating, light, cooking, phone - (proportion)

Play Materials: New books, arts and crafts materials,
paper, paints, etc. (full amount)
Cleaning Materials: Cleaning products, soaps, toiletries, etc.

(proportion)
Food: Proportion of the household food costs
Furniture/ Fittings: Repairs, refurbishment, additional wear and tear

(proportion)
Transport: Mileage allowance (proportion)
Training: Course fees, text books, training materials

(full amount)
Marketing: Advertising costs (full amount)
Secretarial: Expenses involved in keeping records

and accounts, computer equipment, stationary
and other office requirements (full amount)
Accounts: accountants fees (full amount)
Staff: Payment to childcare assistant or helper

(full amount)
51
Sample Income & Expenditure Account
Income:
Child A & B = €100 per week for 48 wks
Child C = €75 per week (reduced Hrs) for 48 wks
Gross Income: €13,200
Less Expenses
Food & Clothing 1600
Light & heat 450
Accountancy 400
Training Course 250
Subscriptions 325
Telephone 230
Insurance 180
Stationery /advertising 210
Motor & Travel 360
Repairs 245 4,250
Net profit €8,950
Finance and Tax section presented and written by Colin Comerford 13th March 2006
52
The Law
SECTION TEN
THE LAW
Section 10:The Law
All Childminders are covered under the 1991 Child Care Act and the Child Care (Pre-School Services)
regulations and the Child Care (Pre-School Services) (Amendment) Regulations, 1997.
Part Seven of the 1991 childcare Act details those childminders for whom the Act does not apply to they are as
follows. For the avoidance of doubt it is hereby declared that the provisions of this Part shall not apply to
a The care of one or more pre-school children undertaken by a relative of the child or children or the spouse
of such relative.
b A person taking care of one or more pre-school children of the same family and no other such children (other
than that person's own such children) in that person's home.
c A person taking care of not more than 3 pre-school children of different families (other than that person's
own such children) in that person's home.
What this means is that those childminders who are minding relatives children do not come under the Act. It also
means that if you are minding children in the same family and no other children then you are also free from the
Act.
The final point is you are also exempt from the rules of the Act and the guidelines if you mind three or less
children from different family’s .We recommend that you voluntarily notify with the county childcare committees,
if you are minding more than three children. If however you don’t fall in to the above categories you are bound
by the rules of the Act.
The regulations, and the guide to the, regulations contain information which is useful and relevant to childminders.
The main points are as follows:
• ‘pre-school child’ is a child who is not yet six

• A Childminder is considered to be part of the pre-school services
• A single Childminder should not mind more than six children, including her own, who are under six years of
age.
• A Childminder should have a telephone on the premises.
• A second person should be available in case of emergencies
• A Childminder should mind no more than three children under the age of one.
• In relation to space requirements it will be up to the local inspectors to make a judgement.
• A Childminder should have adequate insurance
• A Childminder caring for more than three pre-school children should notify to the health service executive.
There is a charge for the notification process; however childminders are advised to apply for a waiver for this
fee.
53
54
Childminding Ireland
SECTION ELEVEN
CHILDMINDING
IRELAND
Section 11: Childminding Ireland
Who are we?

Childminding Ireland is the national body for Childminding in Ireland, representing the interests of Childminders
at national level.We are a membership organisation founded in 1986. Our aims are to:
• Promote high standards in Childminding
• Promote Childminding as a positive childcare setting for children
• Inform Childminders and parents about Quality Childminding, business practice, child protection and welfare,
regulations and grants.
Why join us?

We are YOUR professional organisation. Being a Registered Member of Childminding Ireland will be of benefit to
you in the provision of your service.
Some of the services we offer our Members:
• Recommended Fees and Information on Rates

• Sample Agreements between Childminders and Parents
• Group Insurance Scheme (at very competitive rates)
• Putting you in touch with parents seeking a Childminder in your area
• Information Line – we operate a “help desk” on all matters relating to Childminding.
• Regular newsletters and briefings to keep you up to date
• Information and briefing on best practice and changing legislation
• Support with tax compliance
• Links to networks and County Childcare Committees
• Display Certificate and Membership Card
• Marketing and Discounts
• A voice at national level on bodies such as the National Co-ordinating Childcare Committee and the National
Voluntary Childcare Collaborative
Some facts about Childminding

Childminding is the most popular form of child-care in Ireland. In fact a child is four times more likely to be minded
by a Childminder than to be in a crèche.There are over 37,000 Childminders in Ireland.
Research shows children benefit from the small group family setting, with continuity of care from one person
- often from infancy through to starting secondary school. Like most families, the minded children vary in age
which promotes empathy rather than competition for attention. A family home, with regular outings, provides
children with opportunity to experience the world in a real way. Parents benefit from flexibility and an
individually tailored childcare arrangement which will change over time as the child grows.
55
Childminding offers the opportunity for close communication with the person who has sole responsibility for the
child during the Childminding hours. Childminders benefit by being self-employed as they can use their own
homes to provide a service, earn an income and still care for their own children. By contributing RSI under Class
S, they can avail of certain State benefits, principally the Contributory Pension entitlement.
Registered Members of Childminding need adequate insurance in place to enable them to mind children in their
own home, they also must have clearance from their Doctor.
How to Join
Registered Membership €45 first year, €30 thereafter
This category is for practicing Childminders
General Membership €10
This category is for those thinking of becoming Childminders, students etc.
*You can write the full cost of membership off against your income for tax purposes*
Childminding Ireland
Wicklow Enterprise Park | The Murrough | Wicklow Town | Co.Wicklow
T: 0404 64007 | F:0404 64008 | W: www.childminding.ie
56
Useful Contacts
SECTION TWELVE
USEFUL
CONTACTS
Section 12: Useful Contacts
ADD & ADHD Central Remedial Clinic - C.R.C.

(Attention & Hyperactivity Deficiency Disorders) Penny Ansley Building
Carmichael House Vernon Avenue
North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7 Clontarf
Tel: 01-8748349 Dublin 3
Alan B Kidd Insurance Co Ltd Tel: 01-8332206
212 Harolds Cross Road Centre for Early Childhood Development
Dublin 6W and Education (CECDE)
Tel: 01 4975465 St. Patrick's College
Autism & Asperger Syndrome Association Drumcondra Dublin 9
of Ireland Fax: 01-8842107
Emmet House Tel: 01- 8842000
138-140,Thomas Street Cerebral Palsy –
Dublin 8 The National Association for Cerebral Palsy
Tel: 01-6719664 Ireland
Autism Ireland Sandymount Avenue
Irish Society for Autism Dublin 4
16 Lower O’Connell Street Tel: 01-2695355
Dublin 1 Cherish – see One Family
Tel: 01-8744684 Childcare Directorate -
Barnardos Office of the Minister for Children
Christchurch Square Tel: 1890 20 90 30
Dublin 8 Childminding Ireland,
Tel: 01-4530355 Family Home Based Childcare,.
www.barnardos.ie The Murrough,
Blanchardstown Area Partnership Wicklow Enterprise Park,Wicklow
Dillon House Tel: 0404-64007
106 Coolmine Industrial Estate Email: childm@indigo.ie
Coolmine Website: www.childminding-irl.com
Dublin 15 Children at Risk in Ireland Foundation –
Tel: 01-8209550 CARI
Fax 01-8209551 110 Lr, Drumcondra Road
Email info@bap.ie info@bap.ie Dublin 9
Website: www.bap.ie www.bap.ie Tel: 01-8308529
Blackrock Education Centre Helpline: 1890 924567
Kill Ave, Dun Laoghaire Email: info@cari.ie
Tel: 01-236 5000 Children in Hospital Ireland
Fax: 01 703502373 Carmichael House
Email: bec@blackrock-educ.ie North Brunswick Street
CAINT – for families of children with speech Dublin 7
and language difficulties Tel: 01-8780448
10 Bayview Killiney Hill Road Email: info@childreninhospital.ie
Killiney Co. Dublin Website: www.childreninhospital.ie
Tel: 01-2823584 Children’s Rights Alliance
Cairde (Aids) 13 Harcourt Street,
19 Belvedere Place Dublin 2
Dublin 1 Tel:01 405 4823
Tel: 01-8552111 Fax: 01 405 4826
Email: info@cairde.ie Email: info@cra.iol.ie
Website: www.cairde.org Website: www.childrensrights.ie
57
Citizens Information Centre Down Syndrome Ireland
58 Dublin Road 30 Mary Street
Swords Dublin 1
Co. Dublin Tel: 01-8730999
Tel: 01-8406877 Dublin City Childcare Committee
Co-Operation Fingal North Block 3 Floor 3
Unit 14 The BEAT Centre Civic Offices
Stevenstown Industrial Estate Wood Quay
Balbriggan Dublin 8
Co. Dublin Tel: 01 - 222 3022
Tel: 01-8020410 E-mail: nuala.nicgiobuin@dublincity.ie
Email: info@co-operationfingal.ie Website: www.childcareonline.ie or
Website: www.co-operationfingal.ie www.dublincitychildcare.ie
Cuidiu Dublin City University
Irish Childbirth Trust Dublin 9
Carmichael House Tel: 01-7005000
North Brunswick Street. Dublin Institute of Technology – D.I.T.
Dublin 7 Central Administrative Office
Tel: 01-8724501 30 Upr. Pembroke Street
Website: www.cuidiu-ict.ie Dublin 2
Cryptic Youth Service Tel: 01-4023000
35 Dublin Street Website: www.dit.ie
Balbriggan Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown
Co. Dublin County Childcare Committee,
Tel: 01-8415135 5A Woodpark
Dept. of Health and Children Sallynoggin
Hawkin’s House, Hawkin’s St, Dublin 2 Co Dublin
Fax: 01 635 4001 Tel:01-2368030
Tel: 01 635 4000 www.dlrcountychildcare.ie
Email: customer_services@health.irlgov.ie Dyslexia Association of Ireland
Website: www.justice.ie 1 Suffolk Street
Dept. of Social and Family Affairs Dublin 2
Aras Mhic Dhiarmada, Store Street, Tel: 01-6790276
Dublin 1 Dyspraxia Association
Tel: 01-704 3000 C/o, Communications House
Fax: 01-704 3024 Spruce Avenue
Email: info@welfare.ie Stillorgan Industrial Park
Website: www.welfare.ie Dublin 18
Disability Federation of Ireland Tel: 01- 2957125
2 Sandyford Office Park Email: dyspraxiaireland@eircom.net
Blackthorn Avenue Website: www. dyspraxiaireland.com
Dublin 18 Employment Equality Agency
Tel: 01-2959344 36 Upper Mont Street, Dublin 2
Email: dfi@iol.ie Tel: 01-6624577
Website: www.//Ireland.iol.ie/-dfi Environmental Protection Agency
Dorset College Dublin Regional Inspectorate,
66 Lower Dorset St St. Martin’s House,
Dublin 1 Waterloo Road, Dublin 4
Tel: 01- 8309677/8309335 Tel: 01-667 4474
Email: info@dorset-college.ie Email: info@epa.ie
Website: www.dorset-college.ie Website: www.epa.ie
58
Fingal County Childcare Committee Health & Safety Authority - HSA
ABCO KOVEX Building 10 Hogan Place
Swords Business Park Dublin 2
Swords Tel: 01-6620400
Co Dublin Email: infotel@has.ie
Tel: 01-8077660 Website: www.hsa.ie
info@fingalcountychildcare.ie High/Scope
www.fingalcountychildcare.ie 6C,Wildflower Way
Fingal County Council Belfast BT12 6TA
County Hall, Main Street Northern Ireland
Swords, Co. Dublin Tel: Northern Ireland - 048 90 662825
Tel: 01-8905000 Email: lizc@nippa.org
Email: genpurp@fingalcoco.ie Website: www.nippa.org
Website: www.fingalcoco.ie
Health Promotion Unit
Fingal County Enterprise Board Dept of Health & Children
23 Mainscourt Hawkins house
Swords, Co. Dublin Hawkins Street, Dublin 2
Tel: 01-8900800
Tel: 01 -635 4000
Email: info@fingalceb.ie
Fax: 01- 635 4001
Website: www.fingalceb.ie
Email: www.healthpromotion.ie
Fingal Development Board
Health Service Executive – Northern Area
County Hall,
Head Office
Swords
Swords Business Campus
Co. Dublin
Balheary Road
Tel: 01-8905095
Swords
Email: fingdev@fdb.ie
Website: www.fdb.ie Co. Dublin
Tel: 01-8131800
Food Safety Authority of Ireland (HSAI)
Email: nahb@erha.ie
Abbey Court
Lower Abbey Street Pre-School Officer Service HSE
Dublin 1 Community Care Areas 6
Tel: 01-8171300 Rathdown Road
Email: info@sfa.ie Dublin 7
Website: www.fsai.ie Tel: 01- 8825000
Forbairt Naoinrai Teo Pre-School Officer Service HSE
(formerly An Comchoiste Reamhscoileachta) Community Care Area 8
7 Merrion Square 2 Church Road
Dublin 2 Swords
Tel: 01-6398442 Co. Dublin
Website: www.forbairtnaoinrai@eircom.net Tel: 01-8402835
Froebel College Childminding Advisory Officer HSE
Sion Hill Community Care Areas 6
Blackrock Rathdown Road
Co. Dublin Dublin 7
Tel: 01-2888520 Tel: 01-8825174
Garda Central Vetting Unit Mobile: 086 8059323
Garda Headquarters, Email: elizabeth.butler@mailc.hse.ie
Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 Hope Education,
Tel: 01-666 0000 Children’s Equipment Suppliers
Government Publications Unit 2F, Kylemore Park South,
Sun Alliance House Ballyfermot, Dublin 10
Molesworth Street Dublin 2 Tel: 01 -626 4666
Tel: 01-679 3515 Fax: 01-626 2628
59
Institute of Technology Blanchardstown – Lisheen Toys
B.I.T. Ballyheigue,
Blanchardstown Co Kerry
Dublin 15 Tel: 066 713 3436
Tel: 01-8460949 Fax: 066 713 3436
IPPA – The Early Childhood Organisation Email: lisheentoysltd@ericom.net
Unit 4, Broomhill Business Complex, Marte Meo Project
Broomhill Road,Tallaght, Northern Area Health Board
Dublin 24 17 Middle Mountjoy Street,
Tel: 01- 463 0010 Dublin 7
Fax: 01-463 0045 Tel: 01-860 1648
Email: info@ippa.ie Fax: 01-860 1674
Website: www.ippa.ie Email: martemeo@eircom.net
Irish Council of People with Disabilities Mater Child Guidance Clinic
4th Floor Park House Health Centre
North Circular Road Bridge Street
Dublin 7 Swords
Email: cipd@indigo.ie Tel: 01-8907151
Irish Epilepsy Association Montessori College A.M.I.
249 Crumlin Road Mount St. Mary's
Dublin 12 Dundrum Road
Tel: 01-4557500 Milltown
Dublin 14
Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
Tel: 01- 2692499
to Children E-mail: info@montessoriami.ie
20 Molesworth Street Website: www.montessori-ami.org
Dublin 2
Tel: 01-6794944 Montessori Education Centre
Email: ispcc@ispcc.ie 41-43 Nth Great Georges Street
Dublin 1
Website: www.ispcc.ie
Tel: 01-8780071
Irish Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Email: mec@iol.ie
Association Website: www. montessori-ed-ctr.com
Cappaduff
National Children’s Office
Mountshannon Co. Clare
1st Floor
Phone number: 061-927944
St. Martins House
Website: www.steinerireland.org
Waterloo Road
Irish Sudden Infant Death Association Dublin 4
(Cot Death) Tel: 01-2420000
4 North Brunswick Street Email: nco@health.gov.ie
Dublin 7 Website: www.nco.ie
Helpline: 1850 391391 National Children’s Nurseries Association
Irish Wheelchair Association Unit 12C Bluebell Business Park
Aras Chuchulain Old Naas Road
Blackheath Drive Dublin 12
Clontarf Dublin 3 Tel: 01-4600138
Tel: 01-8186400 Email: info@ncna.ie
Email: info@iwa.ie Website: www.ncnc@net
Website: www.iwa.ie National Children’s Resource Centre
Katherine Howard Foundation Barnardos
P.O Box 6729 Christchurch Square Dublin 8
Swords, Co Dublin Tel: 01-4530355
Tel/Fax: 01-835 1579 Website: www.barnardos.ie
Email: khf@eircom.net Email: info@barnardos.ie
60
National Council for the Blind St. Nicholas Montessori Society of Ireland
Whitworth Road Togal House
Drumcondra 1-3 Callaghan’s Lane
Dublin 9 Dun Laoghaire,
Email: info@ncbi.ie
Tel: 01-2805705
Website: www.ncbi.ie
Email: snmta@eircom.net
National Disability Authority
25 Clyde Road, Dublin 4. School of Practical Childcare
Tel: 01-6684181 27-29 Carysfort Avenue
Email: nrb@iol.ie Blackrock, Co. Dublin
National Parents Council, Tel: 01-2886994
Unit 5, Glasnevin Business Centre Email: info@practicalchildcare.com
Ballyboggan Road, Dublin 9 Website: www.practicalchildcare.com
Tel: 01- 8302740 South County Dublin County Childcare
North Fingal ADD / ADHD Committee
Parents Support Group Bawnogue Enterprise centre,
BEAT Centre Clondalkin,
Stevenstown Industrial Estate
Dublin 22.
Balbriggan, Co. Dublin
Tel: 01 -4570122
Tel: 01-8020484
info@southdublinchildcare.ie
Office of the Minister for Children
www.southdublinchildcare.ie
Tel: 1890 20 90 30
One Family (formally known as Cherish) Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus –
The National Association of Single Parent Irish Association for
Families Old Nangor Road
2 Lower Pembroke Street Clondalkin Dublin 22
Dublin 2 Tel: 01-4572329
Tel: 01-6629212 Swords Chamber of Commerce
Lo-call: 1890 662212
Chamber Buildings
Email: info@cheish.ie
North Street
Website: www.onefamily.ie
Swords Co. Dublin
Open – Lone Parents Network
Tel: 01-8900977
Unit 19 Greendale Shopping Centre
Kilbarrack, Dublin 5 Email: info@swordschamber.ie
Tel: 01-8320264 The University of Dublin Trinity College -
Email: open@indigo.ie TCD
Pobal Dublin 2
Holbrook House Tel: 01-6081721 (Careers Advisory Service)
Holles Street University College Dublin - UCD
Dublin 2
Belfield Dublin 4
Tel: 01-2400700
Tel: 01-01-7167777
Email: enquiries@adm.ie
Website: www.adm.ie Email: info@ucd.ie
Website: www.ucd.ie
Portobello School of Childcare
43 Dominick Street Lr, Dublin 1 Wesco Ireland
Tel: 01-8721277 Children’s Equipment Suppliers
Website: www.portobelloschool.ie Unit 3&4
Revenue Commisioners Liosban Industrial Estate,
Website: www.revenue.ie Tuam Road, Galway
Rollercoaster Ireland – Parents Website Tel: 091 756 301
Website: www.rollercoaster.ie Website: www.wesco-group.com
61
62
Appendices
SECTION THIRTEEN
APPENDICES
Section 13: Appendices
1 Childminding Contract
2 Emergency Contact Details
3 Childminding Attendance Sheet
4 Emergency Replacements information checklist
5 Health Information on Children
6 ABC Chart
7 Incident/Accident Report Sheets
8 Tax Forms
63
Childminding Contract:
Covering _______________________________ (date) to ______________________________ (review date)
Childminding will be provided for the following child/ren:
First Name Last Name Date of Birth Full time/part time
Days and hours childminding will be needed.
Total number of child hours (e.g. one child for 12 hours and one child for 30 hours add up to 42
child hours) _____ child hours.
Total fee due €____ per week/ per fortnight/ per month.
Occasional agreed overtime €___ per hour. It is understood that the Childminder will not always
be able to agree to do overtime.
Occasional unexpected overtime €___ per hour.
Fee to be paid every Monday/ every 2nd Monday / every 1st day of the month in advance.
Fees are kept very low for everyone, so no reduction can be made for brothers and sisters or other
special circumstances. Please note that this includes days when the child/ren do not come to be
minded.Two weeks notice in writing is required to change or to terminate this contract.
We agree to the above and the terms and conditions of the attached childminding policy.
Mother’s signature .................................................................................. Date ..........................................
Father’s signature .................................................................................... Date ..........................................
Childminder’s signature ......................................................................... Date ..........................................
64
Emergency Contact Details for:
Review whenever there are changes.
Whenever there is a real emergency the situation will be dealt with first and parents contacted only
when it is safe to do so:
First Try Full Name Numbers Location

(Relationship (As used in work) (Please give several and (Dept. etc)
to child) a mobile)
Next Try Full Name Numbers Location

to child) a mobile)
Next Try Full Name Numbers Location

to child) a mobile)
In an emergency any one of the following responsible adults may take over the care of the child.
We agree to the above.
65
Childminding Attendance Sheet
Week commencing .................... / .................... / ....................
Child’s Name Monday Tuesday Wed. Thurs. Friday Saturday Sunday Total
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Departed
Arrived
Special Attendance Issues during the week
66
Emergency Replacements Information Checklist
Every Childminder needs to be prepared for an emergency. One way is to have two or three trusted adults who
you and the children’s parents agree can fill in.
Person 1: ............................................................................................................................................................
Address: .............................................................................................................................................................
Phones: ...............................................................................................................................................................
Your emergency replacement has been shown Yes No Doesn't apply

Fire extinguisher
Fire blanket
Smoke alarms
Torch
Fuse board and main electricity switch
Water mains
Gas mains
Pen and paper
First aid box
First aid book
Children's records with parent/carer contact details
List of any special medical or dietary needs
Who you mind and where you collect them (e.g. School)
Who can collect each child from you
Contact details for another emergency replacement
Emergency numbers list
Keys
Heating controls
Phone
67
Health Information on
(Please add name of child here)

Review whenever there are changes.
Vaccinations Received with dates or approximate dates
BCG (first week) _________________________________________________________________________
5 in 1 and Men C (2 months) ________________________________________________________________
MMR (12 to 15 months) ____________________________________________________________________
4 in 1 and MMR (4-5 years) _________________________________________________________________
MMR (11 years) ___________________________________________________________________________
Other immunisations ____________________________________________________________________

Allergies_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Chronic Illnesses or Conditions ___________________________________________________________
Special precautions needed with this child _________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Childminders and parents must inform one another if any medication has been given since the other adult last
had the child, giving the name, time and dose of the medication. The instructions on the pack for the child’s age
will always be followed.
The Childminder has permission to use the following if necessary:
Paracetamol Plasters First Aid Sunblock
Other _________________________________________________________________________________
We agree to the above.
68
Antecedent Behaviour and Consequences Record Sheet
Child’s Name: ...............................................................................................................................................
Recorder(s) Name(s): ................................................................................................................................
TYPE(S) OF BEHAVIOUR BEING RECORDED: ................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................................
WHAT DESCRIBE WHAT WAS THE DESCRIBE

HAPPENED BEFORE THE BEHAVIOUR END RESULT? YOUR FEELINGS
DATE / TIME
DATE / TIME
DATE / TIME
DATE / TIME
69
Incident / Accident Record Card
Date: ............................................................. Time: .............................................................................
Name of child/children involved in the Incident/Accident: .......................................................
Room in which Accident/Incident: ..................................................................................................
Details of Incident/Accident: ............................................................................................................
Nature of injury: ..................................................................................................................................
Action taken: ........................................................................................................................................
By whom: ..............................................................................................................................................
Was medical attention required: .....................................................................................................
Who was called: ..................................................................................................................................
By whom: ..............................................................................................................................................
Who witnessed the accident/incident: ...........................................................................................
Who informed parents: .....................................................................................................................
Who was on duty: ..............................................................................................................................
Any other comments: ........................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
Signed: .................................................................................................................................................
70
Bibliography
SECTION FOURTEEN
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Section 14: Bibliography
An Introduction to Child Care and Education
Hodder & Stoughton
(C. Meggitt, J. Steven & T. Bruce 2000)
A Practical Guide to Activities for Young Children (2nd Edition)

Nelson Thornes Ltd
(C. Hobart & J. Frankel 2002)
Best Practice Guidelines for Childminders

Lagan Family Daycare Network
Childcare & Development (4th Edition)

J. Murray
(P. Minett 2001)
Child Care & Health for Nursery Nurses (3rd Edition)

Stanley Thornes Publishers Ltd
(J. Brain & M. Martin 1994)
Children First National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children
The Stationary Office
(Department of Health & Children 1999)
Children First Summary National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children
The Stationary Office
(Department of Health & Children 1999)
Diploma Child Care and Education

Heinemann Educational Publishers
(P.Tassoni, K. Beith, H.Eldridge & A. Gough 2005)
Guide to Games and Activities for 0-5 Year Olds

Barnardos in Association with Cow & Gate
E.Guiney & A. Regan 2006
Helping Young Children to Play

Hodder & Stoughton
(T. Bruce 2004)
Just Playing? The role and status of play in early Childhood Education
Open University Press
(J. R Moyles 2003)
Planning Play and the Early Years

Heinemann Educational Publishers
((P.Tassoni & K. Hucker 2005)
Play in the Primary Curriculum

Hodder & Stoughton
(Nigel Hall & Lesley Abbott Eds 1994)
Supporting Quality – Guidelines for Best Practice in Early Childhood Services

Barnardos
(G. French 2000)
71
72

Childminders' Information Manual

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Childminders' Information Manual

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Childminders’

Section One: Play 7

Section Two: Planning Activities 13

Section Three: Behaviour Management 15

Section Four: Food & Nutrition 21

Section Five: Child Protection 25

Section Six: Safety in the home 31

Section Seven: Insurance 37

Section Eight: Grants 39

Section Nine: Finance & Tax 45

Section Ten:The Law 53

Section Eleven: Childminding Ireland 55

Section Twelve: Useful Contacts 57

Section Thirteen: Appendices 63

Section Fourteen: Bibliography 71

The Vision of FCCC is:

The Mission of FCCC is:

• Colin Comerford who wrote the finance and tax section.

• Una Caffrey, Childminders Advisory Officer

• Jacinta Cooke, Development Officer

• Mairead Tucker, Development Officer

• Helen Campbell, Senior Administrator

• Dragana Flynn, Administrator & Information Officer

Office Contact Details:

“Play is the business of childhood”

Important aspects of play:

• The benefits of play.

• The types of play.

• What children will not learn by playing?

• The stages of play.

• The role of the Childminder in children’s daily lives

• Activities for babies and children.

The types of play

What children will not learn by playing?

Age Play Description

The role of the Childminder in children’s daily lives

The Role of the Adult

Guidelines for use of the Treasure Basket

Paper, Cardboard etc

Points for planning your week/day

Activities to develop concentration skills

Activities to help children develop good social skills

Activities to develop language skills

Activities to develop mathematical skills

Activities to develop gross motor skills

Activities to develop fine motor skills

Managing children’s behaviour can be as easy as A. B.C.

Why do children misbehave?

Changing the behaviour

Time out is ‘an extreme form of ignoring’ (Douglas, Jo .1992:52)

Help full hints for managing behaviour

At age 1-2 years children:

At age 2-3 years children:

At age 3-4 years children:

At age 4-5 years children:

At age 6-8 years children:

Feeding Babies and Children:

Babies Aged 6-12 Months:

When to start solids?

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

What are suitable drinks?

Signs and Symptoms of child abuse: