CCP Monthly Spotlight - June 2026

Registered Childminding in Northern Ireland

A video highlighting the benefits of registered childminding in Northern Ireland is now available to view, offering an engaging insight into the vital role childminders play in supporting children’s early development.

Registered childminders are skilled professionals who meet strict standards set out through the registration process, ensuring children receive safe, high-quality care. Many childminders hold recognised childcare qualifications or work towards them, and all are supported to continually enhance their knowledge through training and professional development. This commitment to quality ensures that children benefit from a nurturing environment that supports learning, development and wellbeing.

Working within a home-based setting, registered childminders provide flexible, personalised care tailored to each child’s needs. This approach allows children to learn through play, develop confidence and form strong, secure relationships. For parents, registered childminding offers a trusted, regulated childcare option that can adapt to busy family life. In addition, Approved Home Childcarers provide care within the child’s own home, offering an alternative flexible option for families who may require tailored support.

The video highlights how registered childminders not only support children’s early learning and development but also play an important role within their local communities. Their work helps build strong foundations for children’s future, supporting school readiness and social development.

It also showcases the vital role of the Northern Ireland Childminding Association (NICMA), which provides extensive support to registered childminders. NICMA offers guidance through the registration process, access to ongoing training, and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. In addition, financial support such as grants may be available to help childminders set up, enhance their home learning environments, or purchase resources and equipment to improve the quality of care they provide.

Through this support, NICMA helps ensure that registered childminders are well-equipped to deliver high standards of care and continue to grow professionally. This investment in the workforce strengthens the overall quality of childcare provision across Northern Ireland.

Choosing registered childminding not only benefits children and families but also supports a professional, regulated childcare workforce. It can also offer a rewarding and flexible career path for those interested in working with children, with access to training, support and funding opportunities to help them succeed.

Whether you are a parent exploring childcare options or someone considering a fulfilling career in early years care, this video provides a valuable insight into what registered childminding in Northern Ireland has to offer.

Watch the video below to find out more about the role of registered childminders, the support available, and how they make a difference every day.

Please click here to view the childminding video.