Before a child starts, the EYFS requires you to have certain information from their parents, and you'll want plenty more to care for them well. Most childminders collect it on one registration form, sometimes called an "all about me" form or family information form.
What the form should ask
The child. Full name, the name they like to be called, date of birth, home address, and the languages spoken at home.
Parents and carers. Everyone with parental responsibility, who the child lives with, contact details, and anything you need to know about contact arrangements or court orders.
Emergency contacts. At least two, other than the parents.
Collection. Who can collect, and the password for anyone you haven't met.
Health. GP, health visitor, allergies and intolerances with what to do, medical conditions, medicines, and immunisations.
Food. Dietary needs, preferences and anything cultural or religious.
Routines. Sleep, comforters, toileting and how they settle.
Development and support. Anything the family wants you to know, and any professionals involved.
Consents. Emergency treatment, photos, outings, transport, sun cream and anything else you do. Ask for each separately, with a clear yes or no.
Keeping it private
This is sensitive information, so think about how it reaches you. A paper form handed over in person is fine. A Word document sent back by email isn't ideal, because it sits in two inboxes.
How the GoChildmind family form works
Parents fill in the family form on their phone, usually in about ten minutes. Nothing they type is sent online. At the end they save a file locked with a passcode, or a PDF if they prefer, and send it to you. When you open the file in GoChildmind, their details fill in the child's record and contract for you.
Questions people ask
What information does the EYFS say I must have? Before a child starts you must have the child's name, date of birth, home address, the names of every parent they live with and any other parent with parental responsibility, who has legal contact and who the child lives with, and emergency contact details.
How often should parents update the form? Whenever something changes, and check it with them at least once a year.