Finding a good childminder in Ireland takes a bit more work than picking a creche off a list — most childminders don't advertise widely. Here's how Irish parents actually find one in 2026.
Where to look
- Crechely — post what you need and childminders in your county respond.
- Childminding Ireland — the national association's directory.
- Word of mouth — school gate, baby groups, WhatsApp groups.
- Local parenting Facebook groups — every county has one.
- Your local County Childcare Committee (CCC) — keeps lists of registered childminders.
What to ask before hiring
- Are you Tusla-registered (or do you plan to register before September 2027)?
- How many other children do you mind, and what ages?
- What are your hours, holidays and notice period?
- Do you accept the National Childcare Scheme (NCS)?
- Do you have Garda vetting, first aid and public liability insurance?
- What does a typical day look like — meals, naps, outdoor play?
Tusla registration — the 2024–2027 transition
New rules mean all paid childminders must register with Tusla, phased in by September 2027. Registered childminders can accept NCS. More detail in our childminder registration guide.
Garda vetting and insurance
Ask to see a Garda vetting disclosure (issued in the last 3 years), a public liability insurance certificate (usually €2.5m cover), and a paediatric first-aid certificate.
Setting up a trial period
Agree a 2–4 week paid trial. Both sides need it: your child gets to settle, and you both check whether it's a good fit.
Agreeing rates, hours and terms
Put it in writing. Cover hourly rate, hours, meals, holidays, sick days, notice period and who covers what if the childminder is unavailable.
Red flags
- Won't give you references or won't show insurance
- Too many children in the house for their setup
- No routine, TV on all day, no outdoor time
- Cash-only with no receipts (blocks NCS)
Questions to ask at a home visit
Where do children sleep? Is the kitchen safe? Where's the outdoor space? What are the pets like? Watch how the childminder interacts with the children already there — that tells you more than any answer.