Im Worried

[vikki203]

Hi Guys.
I have been looking at this website for a while and think its fab and now i have something that id like a bit of advice on.

I had a baby earlier this year and have decided that i cant cope with leaving her with anybody else whilst i go to work so am going to childmind. I have completed my icp course and am waiting for a conservatory to be built to use as a play room and will then get OFSTED round.

However i am really worried that prospective parents will be put off by my age. I am only 21. My mum was a childminder for 10 years and i come from a HUGE family so have got a fair bit of experience and love kids but i know parents will think i wont be able to cope. Any help or advice you can give me will be greatly appreciated.

Vikki. xxx
P.S parents will no doubt just laugh when they realise my name is Vikki Pollard!!!

[tasha]

Hi,
I would put in your about me section in your portfolio what you have just posted & be sure to point it out!...there are other members who are younger than you & mind, so don't worry too much...I'm sure as you are a parent it won't be held against you too much ...although you may get the odd parent that doesn't go with you due to your age.
Tasha

[bubbly]

A lot of the women on my ICP course are in their early 20s. I'm in the minority - I'll be 40 in January (we even have a 65 year old on the course!). I really do think parents base their decisions upon meeting the childminder. It's about personality, how you interact with the children and whether you and the parents are able to work together, not purely age. Lets face it, a lot of 21 year olds are far more responsible adults than some 50 year olds! You come accross as a very capable and mature person in your post so I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Good luck with with your registration

Bubbly xxx

[deeb66]

I agree with what the others have said - don't let your age stop you and if you follow Tasha's advice and promote yourself right I don't think you will have any problems

Dee

[polly2]

Hi Vikki

I'm sure you will be fine - you sound lovely in your post and like has been said personality has a lot to do with things.

Your Mum also has lots of experience and I'm sure will be on hand to give you advice!! As mums do

Go for it!! All the best

Hollyx

[miffy]

Think you should go for it Vikki and not worry too much about your age.

really don't think that will be a problem

Good luck

Miffy