How to become a childminder or nanny?
Becoming a childminder or nanny is a rewarding career, but it requires meeting certain criteria and following specific administrative procedures . This article details the essential steps to achieve this by directing you to the appropriate resources.
The necessary qualifications and skills
To work as a childminder, several skills and qualifications are required. First of all, you need to have good interpersonal skills since this job involves a lot of contact with children and their parents.
Previous experience in childcare can be very beneficial. A diploma such as the CAP Petite Enfance is often appreciated and can strengthen your application when applying for accreditation . In addition, initial training is mandatory to understand the needs of children and ensure their safety.
Personal skills
Patience, creativity, listening skills and a sense of responsibility are all essential qualities to succeed in this profession. Respect for schedules and flexibility are also important because parents can have varied demands.
Having a safe and child-friendly home is also mandatory. This includes having safe and age-appropriate play areas and providing balanced meals.
Administrative procedures to obtain approval
To become an approved childminder, you must follow specific administrative steps. The first step is to participate in an information meeting organized by the departmental council. This meeting allows you to present the expectations and obligations related to the profession.
Next, you must complete and submit an application for approval. This file generally includes information about the candidate, their experience, their references and a description of their home. Once the file is submitted, a control visit is carried out by a professional from the departmental council to ensure that the accommodation complies with safety standards.
Mandatory training
Once accreditation is obtained, an initial training of at least 120 hours is mandatory. This training covers various aspects such as first aid, child psychology, and childcare techniques. Part of this training focuses on child safety and food hygiene.
In some departments, additional training may be offered or required to ensure an ever higher level of competence.
Financial aspects: salary and financial aid available
The job of childminder offers significant financial benefits. The salary varies according to the number of children looked after and the hours worked. In addition, regulated rates allow parents to benefit from financial aid such as the free choice of childcare supplement (CMG) granted by the CAF.
There is also local assistance specific to each department. This assistance can take the form of subsidies for home improvements or for continuing education. Find out how to choose between a nanny, a childminder, or an au pair .
The salary scale
Here is a summary table of the financial elements relating to this profession:
Financial Elements Relating to This Business:
- Gross hourly wage: Varies between €2.88 and €5.00
- Maintenance allowances: Set at around €3.00 per day
- Financial aid: CMG, APA
Training available to become a childminder
In addition to the mandatory 120-hour training, various additional training courses exist to improve your skills. For example, modules on conflict management or workshops to discover new teaching methods.
These training courses can be organized by specialized associations or public institutions. It is important to inquire with the departmental council to find out about the options available.
Continuing education and specialization
Continuing education allows you to stay informed about the latest developments in legislation and teaching methods. Specializations can also be followed to work with children with special needs, such as those with disabilities.
You can find information about these training courses on the websites of the departmental councils or by contacting approved organizations.
Differences between childminder and nanny
It is important to distinguish between a childminder and a nanny. A childminder receives children at her home after obtaining approval. She generally looks after several children at the same time and must undergo prior training.
On the other hand, a nanny works in the parents' home and is not required to obtain approval or undergo specific training. However, families often prefer candidates with good experience or diplomas in the field of early childhood.
The strengths and weaknesses of each profession
- Childminder : Organizational flexibility, reduced social charges, stability thanks to regular contracts.
- Nanny : Higher potential salary, close interaction with a single family, fewer administrative constraints.
Each option has advantages and disadvantages that are important to consider based on your personal preferences and family situation.
Becoming a childminder or nanny requires acquiring certain skills and following rigorous administrative procedures. With the right information and resources, it is possible to flourish in this profession while providing valuable assistance to families.
