Childminding Support Groups and Drop Ins

CHILDMINDING SUPPORT GROUPS

There is a network of Childminding Support Groups affiliated to NICMA across Northern Ireland. The groups exist to provide a support network to self-employed childminders who work in isolation and offer a range of activities including:-

• Social Activities
• Training - e.g. First Aid, Special Needs
• Toy Library
• Guest Speakers
• Support, advice and sharing of information

Information evenings and get togethers are also organised in those areas not serviced by support groups. For further support and guidance please contact the local Childminding Development Officer.

If you are interested in attending, contact the local Childminding Development Officer.

CHILDMINDING DROP-INS

 A Drop-in is a regular session for childminders and their ‘minded’ children where the childminders access group interaction and support from each other and the children have opportunity for group play, social interaction and group learning.

Drop-ins run at regular intervals but we would recommend that they operate no more than once weekly, as NICMA’s purpose is to provide ‘quality childcare and education in a registered homebased setting’.

A ‘Drop-in’ aims to:

• Provide a safe and stimulating environment where children have the opportunity to play, develop, learn and interact in a ‘group’ setting.
• Provide a fully inclusive setting to all the children.
• Encourage registered childminders to access support, advice and training and reduce their sense of isolation.
• Raise the profile of ‘registered’ childminding to prospective childminders, parents and other agencies.

Eastern Health & Social Services Board
Ulster Community Hospital Trust & Down Lisburn Trust
Contact: Tracey Scott Tel: 07891039094
Childminding Development Officer, Eastern Childcare Partnership

Eastern Health & Social Services Board
South & East Trust/North & West Belfast Trust
Contact: Liz Brown Tel: 07517 472271

Northern Health & Social Services Board
Homefirst trust
Contact: Clare McKay Tel: 07746974643
NICMA Childminding Development Officer

Southern Health & Social Services Board
Contact:- Michelle Grant Tel: 07738 176 199
NICMA Childminding Development Officer