Spotlight shines on Limerick childminders

NATIONAL Childminding Week recognises the invaluable contribution childminders make to children, families and local communities.

For many, a childminder becomes a trusted and familiar part of family life, offering a safe, nurturing home-from-home environment where children can learn through play, build confidence, develop independence and form meaningful relationships.

National Childminding Week celebrates the professionalism, dedication and commitment demonstrated by childminders every day.

It also aims to promote greater understanding of childminding as a high-quality childcare option that offers flexibility and continuity of care alongside other unique benefits, not only for children and families but also for the wider community.

Throughout the week, a range of local events and activities will take place nationwide, providing opportunities for childminders to connect with one another, share experiences, learn about available supports and celebrate the positive impact they have on the lives of the families they support.

As demand for high-quality childcare continues to grow, the contribution of childminders has never been more important.

To find out what events and activities are taking place in your area during National Childminding Week, visit www.letstalkchildminding.ie.

Local Childminder Spotlight

This National Childminding Week, we are delighted to shine a spotlight on Yvonne McCarthy who cares for children and supports families in Kildimo, Co. Limerick.

Having worked as an events manager, becoming a parent changed Yvonne’s priorities and inspired her to create a career that allowed her to be present for her own family while helping other children grow.

She particularly loves the relationships she builds with children and parents alike, along with flexibility and the ability to tailor each day to the children’s individual interests.

“My setting is homely, relaxed and intimate - a safe space where children feel respected and free to be themselves,” she says.

Her role is very rewarding, and she loves “hearing from parents about the positive impact our gentle, predictable routine has had on their family life”.

She believes that childminding offers children a personal, familiar and nurturing environment with mixed age relationships that can feel like a family setting.

“For families considering a childminder, I would encourage them to choose someone they can communicate openly with, who offers a genuine home environment, strong connections and the freedom for children to simply be themselves,” she advises.

Earlier this year, Yvonne became a Tusla-registered childminder, enabling the families using her service to access the National Childcare Scheme.

Yvonne sees National Childminders Week as a ‘thank you to our local Childcare Committees, who do a truly fantastic job on the ground’ as well as being an important week for advocacy.

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