A Day in the life of a Childminder: My journey, my joy

Hello! I’m Sarah a registered Childminder based in my family home, where I provide care for children from birth to twelve years old. My setting is more than just a place for childcare—it's a nurturing environment where children and their families are supported, relationships are built, and lifelong bonds are formed.

I’m inspected by Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) and follow the new Curriculum for Wales, just like larger childcare settings. I regularly complete mandatory training in paediatric first aid, safeguarding, and food hygiene, along with many additional courses that enhance my knowledge and benefit the children in my care. I offer children meaningful learning activities, first hand experiences along with child led play opportunities.

My journey into childminding wasn’t a straight path. I studied Business in college and spent 17 years working full-time as an Estate Agent. During that time, I used a local childminder for my own children and was inspired by the relationship they built and the fun they had. That inspiration led me to complete an Introduction to Childcare course through my local authority, and in 2012, I officially registered with CIW.

Since then, I’ve never looked back. I’ve continued to grow professionally, earning a foundation degree/Level 5 in Children’s Care, Learning and Development, a Level 3 Transition to Playwork, and the Hygge in the Early Years Accreditation. I’m also proud to be the first SchemaPlay Gold Award Accredited Childminder in Wales.

No two days are ever the same in my home-from-home setting. Each morning, we decide together what we’d like to do, guided by the children’s interests. This keeps them engaged and eager to learn.

We have our own allotment, where we follow the seasons and the children enjoy planting, nurturing, and harvesting fruits and vegetables. Living near beaches, country parks, and woodlands means we’re often out exploring, learning from nature, and enjoying the fresh air. Even the unpredictable Welsh weather doesn’t stop us—we’re often seen in waterproofs, puddle-jumping or having the park all to ourselves!

There are so many special moments, but one that stands out is being asked by a family to be their child’s Godmother. It was a huge honour and a privilege—one that I’ll always treasure. Another heartwarming moment is when I bump into children years later and they remember our time together fondly, introducing me as “the best childminder ever.” It’s those moments that truly affirm the impact of this work.

I genuinely love spending my days with children—hearing their laughter, watching them play and have fun with their friends , and seeing them grow and develop. Every day is an adventure, full of surprises and discoveries. There aren’t many jobs where you can spend your time outdoors, have picnics in the park, splash in streams, and visit local farms—all without a long commute!

If I could go back, I’d tell myself just how much I’d love this job and how rewarding it would be. Childminding can sometimes feel isolating, but building friendships with other childminders and meeting up with our minded children has created a wonderful support network. I truly believe I have the most rewarding job in the world—providing a safe, loving space where children can thrive.