Frequently Asked Questions | Little Honeybees Childminding

Question 1

What ages do you care for?

Accepted Answer

We care for children from birth to 5 years old (pre-school age). We do not offer before or after school care as a standard service — however, for siblings of children already in our care, we are happy to provide holiday cover during school holidays. Please get in touch to discuss your family's needs.

Question 2

How many children do you look after at once?

Accepted Answer

As registered childminders, we can care for up to 6 children at any one time, of which no more than 3 may be under 5. This small, home-based ratio means every child receives plenty of individual attention.

Question 3

Are you Ofsted registered?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Little Honeybees is fully registered with Ofsted and inspected regularly. Our registration means we meet the legal requirements for childminding in England and can accept government-funded hours.

Question 4

Where are you based?

Accepted Answer

We are based in Greenbank, East Bristol. Our exact address is shared with families at the enquiry stage. As well as our home setting, we have our own allotment — a wonderful space where children grow vegetables, explore nature and get hands-on with the seasons. We are also well connected to local parks, woodland, nature reserves and community spaces.

Question 5

What are your opening hours?

Accepted Answer

We are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. We are closed on bank holidays and take eight weeks of holiday per year, with dates shared well in advance.

Question 6

How much do you charge?

Accepted Answer

Our standard rate is £8.50 per hour, which includes all home-cooked meals, snacks, nappies, sun cream, and all activities and resources.

Question 7

Do you accept government-funded hours?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we are registered to accept all government-funded childcare entitlements. Visit beststartinlife.gov.uk to check what you're eligible for.

Question 8

Do you accept childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we accept Tax-Free Childcare payments. You can set up a Tax-Free Childcare account through the government's Best Start in Life website. For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2, up to £2,000 per year per child.

Question 9

Is there a deposit?

Accepted Answer

No — we do not ask for a deposit to secure your place.

Question 10

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Fees are invoiced monthly in advance and payable by bank transfer. A signed contract is required before your child's start date.

Question 11

What does a typical day look like?

Accepted Answer

Every day is shaped by the children's interests and the weather, but we follow a consistent rhythm: arrivals and free play, breakfast together, a long morning of outdoor learning and child-led activities, lunch, rest time, afternoon creative activities, snack, and a calm wind-down before collection. See our Daily Routine page for the full schedule.

Question 12

Do you go outside every day?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we go outside every single day, whatever the weather. We have waterproofs and wellies for all children, and we believe that there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. Outdoor play is central to our ethos and the children absolutely love it.

Question 13

What is your approach to learning?

Accepted Answer

We follow a forest-school, play-based approach rooted in the EYFS framework. Learning is child-led, hands-on and embedded in real experiences — growing vegetables, exploring nature, cooking, creating and discovering. We plan activities around each child's individual interests and developmental stage.

Question 14

Do you provide meals?

Accepted Answer

Yes — all meals and snacks are included in our fees. We provide a nutritious, home-cooked breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack every day, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Our menu changes fortnightly.

Question 15

Can you cater for dietary requirements and allergies?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We take allergies and dietary requirements very seriously. Please discuss any requirements with us at the registration stage. We will adapt our menus accordingly and ensure all meals are safe for your child. We hold a current Food Hygiene certificate.

Question 16

How does settling in work?

Accepted Answer

We offer a series of free settling-in sessions before your child's official start date. These start short — perhaps just 30–60 minutes — and build up gradually over several visits, always following the child's lead. We never rush the process. Some children settle quickly; others need more time, and that is completely fine.

Question 17

What if my child is upset at drop-off?

Accepted Answer

It is completely normal for children to find drop-off difficult, especially in the early weeks. We have lots of experience supporting children through this transition. We will always let you know how your child is doing — usually within 30 minutes of drop-off — and we are happy to share photos and updates throughout the day.

Question 18

Can I come and visit before deciding?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — we encourage it. A visit is the best way to get a feel for Little Honeybees, meet us, and let your child explore the space. There is no pressure and no obligation. Just get in touch to arrange a convenient time.

Question 19

What paperwork do I need to complete?

Accepted Answer

Before your child starts, we will ask you to complete a registration form, an all-about-me form, an emergency contacts form, a permissions form, and to read and sign our key policies. We will send you everything you need in our registration pack.

Question 20

How will I know how my child is getting on?

Accepted Answer

We use an online learning journal to share observations, photos and updates. You will also get a verbal handover at pick-up every day. We hold informal progress chats termly and are always happy to talk at any time — our door (and phone) is always open.

Your questions answered

About the setting

Fees & funding

Daily life & learning

Starting & settling in

Still have questions?

Your questions answered

🏡About the setting

💰Fees & funding

🌿Daily life & learning

🌱Starting & settling in

Still have questions?

About the setting

Fees & funding

Daily life & learning

Starting & settling in