New guidelines, launched by Minister of State for Children Brian Lenihan, state that childminders must have a "no slapping policy" for the children in their care. "Childminders must ensure that no corporal punishment is inflicted on a child and that a child is never subjected to any degrading or abusive behaviour while in their care." The childminder must be a suitable person, aged 18 or over, who "is genuinely interested in caring for children". The childminders' home should be clean and hygienic and exit doors and gates secure. There should be adequate play space for children, and a telephone for contacting a parent in an emergency. The childminder should be trained in children's first aid and have an up-to-date first aid kit, and fire safety equipment, the guidelines state. They also recommend that childminders have appropriate insurance cover. There are up to 38,000 childminders nationwide, providing childcare services to almost 50,000 working parents. Speaking at the launch of the guidelines, Brian Lenihan said childminders were the preferred choice of the majority of parents. He added that the 50 per cent increase in the tax exemption for childminders announced in this year's budget was an acknowledgement by the Government of the important role they play in childcare provision. 'In our Childcare Strategy, the Government has always sought to acknowledge the importance and effectiveness of the childcare provided by childminders. That is why the Minister for Finance, Brian Cowen, increased the tax exemption for childminders, introduced in last year's budget, by 50%. 'This means that a childminder minding up to three children other than her own in her own home can now earn up to 15,000 euros a year in childminding income before paying tax,' the Minister said. Childminders who complete the 10-hour training course for childminders offered by the country's 33 city and county childcare committees can apply for capital grants for small items like toys and equipment. Those who mind more than three pre-school children must register with the Health Services Executive. (Source: Irish Independent and other)