Finding a Childminder: The Complete Guide
A childminder offers flexible, home-like care for your child. Especially for babies, toddlers, and families with irregular working hours, a family daycare is often the ideal solution.
What Is a Childminder?
A childminder cares for children in their own home, usually alongside their own children. The group size is small: a maximum of 5 children at a time without a special license.
Where Can I Find a Childminder?
Family daycare associations — The safest route. Associations like kibesuisse connect you with trained childminders who have insurance coverage and professional contracts.
maus.kids — Search for childminders near you with filter options.
Municipality — Many municipalities keep lists of registered family daycare providers.
Costs
| Model | Costs |
|---|---|
| Through a family daycare association | CHF 5–11/hour (income-based) |
| Private | CHF 10–25/hour |
| 3 days/week at 8 hours | CHF 500–1'200/month |
What to Look For?
- Training — Does the childminder have a first aid course? A recognized qualification?
- References — Can they provide references from other families?
- Child-proof home — Outlet covers, stair gates, secure furniture
- Insurance coverage — Liability and accident insurance in place?
- Contract — Clear terms for care hours, costs, cancellation, and holiday arrangements
- Trial period — Agree on a trial period of 1–2 months
Advantages Over Daycare
- More flexible care hours (also evenings, weekends)
- Consistent caregiver
- Small group — fewer infections
- Often cheaper for part-time
- Home-like atmosphere
«Switzerland has one of the most expensive childcare systems in the world. Transparency on costs and availability is the first step towards better work-life balance.»
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