As a childminder, you should set up a business as a sole trader.  It is relatively simple to set up as a sole trader. Your main legal obligation is that you must register as a self-employed person Legal Obligations on Becoming Self Employed with the Revenue Commissioners.  If you want to use a business name, you must register your business name with the Companies Registration Office. For more information, go to selfemployedsupports.ie

If you are unemployed you may be eligible for the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) or the Short-Term Enterprise Allowance (STEA).  If you are starting a business, you also may get extra supports under these schemes, for example grants for training, market research, business plans and access to loans to buy equipment.

You also need to plan your service.  Do some research.  What level of demand is there for childminding in your area?  How much should you charge?  You may need to prepare your home for young children. 

Contact info@wccc.ie for further info.