How to find and check a childminder in Malta

How childminders are found and checked in Malta

In Malta, childminding is often found through personal networks - family, friends, neighbours, and parents at school or community centres. Word-of-mouth remains common, but online platforms now let you search by area and service type across the whole country. A Websta profile shows a childminder's description of their service, location, contact details, photos of their space, prices they set themselves, and a contact form or online booking tool. This makes it simpler to compare several providers at once rather than following a single recommendation.

Before contacting a provider, check whether they have any public registration or listed qualifications. In Malta, childcare workers may hold various credentials depending on their background and type of care. Ask the provider directly about their training, experience, and any certifications they hold. A Websta profile lets you see what they choose to highlight about their background and service.

Questions to ask a childminder before you agree

Once you have found a provider, a face-to-face meeting or video call is essential. Bring a list of questions to cover care approach, daily routine, how they handle emergencies, and house rules. Beyond the basics, ask about their experience with your child's age group and any specific needs your child has.

• What is your background and training in childcare? Do you hold any certifications or qualifications?
• What is your daily routine - mealtimes, nap times, play and learning activities?
• How do you communicate with parents about what the child did each day?
• What is your sick leave policy and how do you cover it if you are unavailable?
• How do you manage behaviour and discipline, and what is your approach to child development?
• What is included in your fee - meals, activities, materials, nappies - and what do parents provide?
• How far in advance do you need notice if I need to change days or end the arrangement?
• Do you take the children on outings, and what supervision and safety measures do you use?

Childcare qualifications and registration in Malta

Malta has structures for registering childcare providers and training childcare workers, but the rules and registration pathways can vary. Some childminders may be registered with relevant authorities, while others may work independently. Before committing, ask whether the person is registered with any government agency or professional body, and verify any claims they make about their status. Do not assume registration based on reputation alone.

If the childminder holds qualifications, ask for details about the awarding body and when they completed the training. Whether or not they are formally registered, consistent experience and a clear approach to child safety matter greatly. Trust your own assessment during your meeting and ask for references from other parents if possible.

Seasonal patterns and language in Malta

Malta's school holidays and work patterns may shape when childminders are busiest or when they take time off themselves. Summer breaks are longer and may affect availability. Some childminders offer full-time year-round care, while others adapt to school terms. Discuss this when you first contact them, especially if you need consistent cover during school holidays.

Language is an important practical detail. Most childminders in Malta speak Maltese and English, and some may speak other languages. Confirm which language or languages the childminder uses with the children, as this affects communication with your child and your ability to stay in touch about their day.

Quotes and payment - how it usually works

Childminders set their own rates and terms. When you contact a provider through Websta or directly, they will give you a quote based on the hours, days, and services you need. Payment arrangements vary - some childminders prefer cash, bank transfer, or other methods. Ask upfront how payment works, when it is due, and whether they invoice you or use another system.

If you pay through Websta, the platform processes the payment securely using Stripe and transfers the money to the childminder's bank account. Agree in writing or in a recorded message on the payment schedule, what happens if either of you needs to cancel, and any notice period required. This protects both you and the provider.

Comparing providers on Websta

Websta's marketplace for childcare in Malta lets you browse profiles by location and service type. Each profile shows the childminder's description of what they offer, photos of their space, and how to contact them. You can see multiple providers in your area or across different parts of Malta without having to search multiple websites or rely only on local word-of-mouth.

Look at each profile to understand what each childminder emphasises - their experience, the age groups they work with, what activities they include, and what their space looks like. Use the contact form or online booking tool to ask questions and request a quote. Comparing several profiles helps you narrow down your options before arranging visits or calls.

Safety and trust - practical steps

Beyond qualifications, your own judgment matters. Visit or speak with the childminder yourself, observe how they interact with children if possible, and trust your instincts about whether they are a good fit. Ask for references and follow them up with other parents who have used the provider.

Confirm that the childminder has a safe space for your child - appropriate furniture, secure storage of hazards, first aid supplies on hand, and clear procedures for illness and emergencies. Agree on how you will stay in contact during the day and how the childminder will reach you if there is a problem. Put key agreements in writing or record them in a message so you both have a record.