National childminding week 2026
National childminding week 2026 brings celebration across Britain
National Childminding Week 2026 ran from Monday 11 to Sunday 17 May 2026 and was marked by a whole range of exciting events and initiatives across England, Wales and Scotland.
The Magic of Childminding
In England and Wales this year's theme was the "Magic of Childminding," and the week shone a spotlight on the unique role childminders play in early years care and development — and the lasting difference their warmth and dedication make to children and families.
The week was packed with activities, including social media campaigns, stay and play events, and the launch of a major new report on the profession. The report highlights the distinctive value childminders offer: flexible hours, continuity of care for siblings, strong outdoor and community engagement, and vital support for children with SEND, nearly a third of whom are already cared for by childminders nationally.
Coram PACEY also revealed the winners of its annual Regional Childminder Awards, announced daily throughout the week. Every regional winner has now been automatically shortlisted for the 2026 Childminder of the Year Award, with the overall winner to be announced in October.
Local councils joined in too. Derby City Council, for example, used the week to highlight how childminders support children's development and help families balance work and home life — while encouraging more people to consider a career in childcare.
Wales takes centre stage
Coram PACEY Cymru ran its own allied programme of activities, including a Local Authority webinar and a celebration event. The week culminated in a special gathering in Cardiff on Saturday May 16th, bringing together childminders and Coram PACEY members to mark the close of the week.
Guests heard from speakers including Ceri Herbert of Care Inspectorate Wales, Hedwig Verhagen on psychological trauma and child development, author Duke Al, and Paula Timms on the Magic of Childminding theme.
A profession under pressure
Alongside the celebrations, the Coram PACEY report warned that childminder numbers continue to be in steady decline — down to 24,990 in England and 1,043 in Wales — even as demand for flexible, home-based childcare grows. The report calls for urgent Government action, including better recruitment and retention support, fairer tax treatment, and reform of funding rules that currently disadvantage childminders.
Scotland's #CheerForChildminding
In Scotland, the Scottish Childminding Association ran a parallel campaign from 11–16 May under #CheerForChildminding, featuring a Big Teddy Bears' Picnic, a new Childminding Week Bingo activity, and a closing online conference offering members CPL hours.
Together, these celebrations reaffirmed a shared message: childminders are a vital, often under-recognised part of the early education and childcare system — and their future depends on sustained support and investment.
Further reading