Types of Jobs Working with Children
There are definitely a number of options available if you want to work with children to earn some extra money. However, before you begin to consider it, you should love children - and not just your own - and have the patience of a saint, since, however rewarding it can feel, at times it can feel very frustrating.
You can work from your own home as a childminder, as a babysitter in other peoples' homes, or in a facility offering childcare, early years education or what's known as playwork - working in an out of school club, for instance. That's a wide range of possibilities.
A good qualification really helps, such as the Certificate in Children's Care, Learning and Development or the Certificate in Playwork or Pre-School Practice; there's a wide range, and what you take depends on the area in which you want to work.
Childminder
Those who look after children under the age of eight - are registered with Ofsted. It's not a complex procedure, but it does take time and effort, including filling out an application (which will include a meeting with a Childcare Inspector who will discuss the services you offer and the suitability of your home), and then undergoing medical and criminal records checks, as well as submitting the names of two referees. You'll have to attend a course, then have another inspection of your home by Ofsted. You can look after up to six children at home, but no more than three, which includes your own kids, should be under five. You'll also need to have proper liability insurance for looking after children.This is, quite obviously, for the protection of the children, but also for your protection. Illegal childminding - that if, not being registered - can land you in court.