Hello, I'm Christine O.

We are a Family of 4​,​ Mum - Christine​,​ Dad - David​,​ 2 children Rhys 8​,​ Ava 6. We live in Rathmines​,​ Dublin 6. Rhys and Ava both go to an Irish ​/​ Gaeilge speaking school so having basic Irish is important to that the minder can help with homework. Currently we have 2-3 childminders who rotate days of the week they work but after 3 years these wonderful young women are finishing college this year and off to join the corporate world of work. So we will need a new childminder or 2 from March 2026. Ideally the new minder(s) would drive and have their own car although this is not compulsory and live close to or in Dublin 6 makes sense. The childminder should be kind​,​ patient​,​ trustworthy and responsible. Our daughter needs to be picked up at 1:30pm and son at 2:30pm. The school is in walking distance our home. Bring them home​,​ where they can relax​,​ do their Irish homework and play or maybe bring them to a prearranged activity. Light chores might include tidying up and preparing an easy dinner. Patience​,​ kindness​,​ quick learner​,​ love of children and a responsible​,​ happy to help with anything attitude. Additional hours needed some days and during the school holidays. My daughter Ava is spicy and can come out of school tired and grumpy the best candidate would be able to handle this in a calm​,​ understanding way and appreciate that she is getting things out of her system and should not be scolded but comforted and listened to. My son is gentle​,​ sweet and loves video games he is very compliant. Both kids can get distracted so being on high alert​,​ safety conscious and staying close to them as they cycle on the footpath home is important. Also if watching them play in the playground with other children having energy and staying close to them is important - kids can be cruel and my son can be oblivious to social queues so keeping an eye on behaviour in the playground is important - sitting and playing on the phone won't work. The minder needs to stay close and keep an eye on the kids please. Lastly we have a beautiful big golden doodle called Ruby she is a big blonde teddy bear dog who is very friendly and cuddly. It would be great if the minder could pick her up from the house and bring her to collect the kids sometimes to get her out and about during the day. Current minders finish end of March for one and May for another so would be great to do a handover ​/​ trial with any candidates while they are still with us in March. Ideal minder would be garda vetted and have experience minding children whether at summer camps or similar.