The below article is written by the Department for Education.
Every day, childminders across England provide professional, high quality early education and childcare that makes a real and lasting difference to children and families. You support children through some of their most important developmental moments, build relationships that last for years, and bring real skill and dedication to a role that makes an impact.
This National Childminding Week, we want to say thank you.
“Childminders play a vital role in giving children the best possible start in life. This National Childminding Week, I want to thank every childminder across England for the skill, dedication and care they bring to their work every single day.”
Minister Bailey, Minister for Early Education.
The difference you make
Childminding is so much more than childcare. Working with small groups of mixed age children, you work within the Early Years Foundation Stage, observe and track children’s progress, and provide the kind of consistency and continuity that genuinely shapes children’s early lives. The relationships you build with families, and the trust they place in you, are at the heart of what makes childminding special.
Kirsty, founder of Lily and Lace Daycare, captures what that means in practice.
“Every day is different, filled with curiosity, laughter, and those small but meaningful moments that show real progress. Being part of a child’s journey, especially during such important developmental years, is both a privilege and a passion.”
Recognised for excellence
Childminders across England should be proud of the standard they set. Childminders like Jasbhinder, who achieved Outstanding at her first Ofsted inspection, demonstrate what skilled, dedicated practice looks like every day.
“The most rewarding aspect of the role is seeing children grow and develop over time. Supporting them as they reach key milestones and build confidence is incredibly fulfilling. I also value the strong partnerships I build with families and the trust they place in me to care for their children.”
At the heart of early years
Every child deserves the best possible start in life, and childminders make that happen every day. Your professionalism, your relationships with families, and the quality of care you provide make a real difference.
To every childminder reading this: thank you for the work you do, the care you give, and the difference you make, this week and every week.
Ka Lai Brightley-Hodges, Head of Coram PACEY comments:
“Childminding Week is a chance to recognise the incredible work that childminders do day in, day out and the magical impact that they have on the lives of children, families and the communities they create and support. Whilst childminders deliver high quality early education and childcare, they also offer something special; a home-from-home environment where children feel secure, valued and supported, invaluable time to focus on each child and provide consistent care and the flexibility and freedom to be spontaneous like making the most of the outdoors on rainy days. Thank you to all childminders, what you do makes a difference and is truly unique.”
