Can I look after a friends children without qualifications?

Question

I might start looking after a friends 2 children on a daily basis I guess you could say I will be a childminder the only thing is I dont have any childcare qualifications and I'm not sure if I need them to do this,can anyone help!?

Answer 1

I would suggest a CPR/First Aid class.   Most new parents are now taking this class and it will help you from losing your wits if something should happen;i.e.  choking, falling, eating something they should not eat, etc.

In our state, the law says you can keep 5 children in your home without  being a license daycare.    

I hope it never comes to the point that we need to be certified before we can have children.  The way some people are against 'unqualified' people teaching their own children, it may soon be a rule that we will need to be 'qualified' by the government before becoming parents.

Answer 2

no you dont need qualifications, she is your friend.

Answer 3

As long as your friend is fine with it, you don't NEED any qualifications to look after her kids. If you wanted to run a business (daycare, after school program), then you'd need to be licensed and I'm sure your customers would want you to have certain basic qualifications.

It's a good idea to have basic CPR and first aid training when you're around kids a lot.

Answer 4

Well the first thing would be your age and if you have any previous experience watching children.  Next, if you would feel better and I'm sure the parents won't mind either, may I suggest taking a CPR class at your local YMCA.  If there is anything your not sure of maybe other friends and family members can help answer them.  Your best bet would be to talk with the childrens parents you are going to be watching and see if they would want you to take any other classes.  Good luck and I hope this helps.