Childminder in East Sussex

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY316412 Inspection date 09 May 2006 Inspector Sue Taylor

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Type of inspection Childcare Type of care Childminding

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This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000

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ABOUT THIS INSPECTION

The purpose of this inspection is to assure government, parents and the public of the quality of childcare and, if applicable, of nursery education. The inspection was carried out under Part XA Children Act 1989 as introduced by the Care Standards Act 2000 and, where nursery education is provided, under Schedule 26 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. This report details the main strengths and any areas for improvement identified during the inspection. The judgements included in the report are made in relation to the outcomes for children set out in the Children Act 2004; the National Standards for under 8s day care and childminding; and, where nursery education is provided, the Curriculum guidance for the foundation stage. The report includes information on any complaints about the childcare provision which Ofsted has received since the last inspection or registration or 1 April 2004 whichever is the later.

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The key inspection judgements and what they mean

Outstanding: this aspect of the provision is of exceptionally high quality Good: this aspect of the provision is strong Satisfactory: this aspect of the provision is sound Inadequate: this aspect of the provision is not good enough For more information about early years inspections, please see the booklet Are you ready for your inspection? which is available from Ofsted's website: www.ofsted.gov.uk.

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THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

On the basis of the evidence collected on this inspection:

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THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

The quality and standards of the care are good. The registered person meets the National Standards for under 8s day care and childminding.

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WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

The childminder was registered in 2005. She lives with her partner and child aged 1 year, in a residential area on outskirts of Eastbourne. The ground floor, two bedrooms and the upstairs bathroom of the childminder’s house are used for childminding. Part of the garden has been made available for outside play. The childminder is registered to care for a maximum of five children at any one time and is currently minding six children, all of whom attend on a part-time basis. She also cares for children aged over 8. She attends the local toddler group and takes children to the local park.

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WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 The childminder has a cat and dog (outside only).

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is good. Children are well cared for in a warm and clean environment. They learn about hygiene practices through the effective routines followed by the childminder. They understand that they wash their hands after using the toilet and before eating. As children use liquid soap and their own towel, the risk of cross contamination is reduced. Information shared with parents regards the care of sick and injured children ensures that children’s welfare is given priority. Children begin to learn about the need for a healthy diet. They have ready access to drinks throughout the day. This helps them have control over their own thirst needs and prevent dehydration. The childminder is aware of individual dietary needs and ensures these are met. She does not provide meals but has a good understanding of food nutrition. Children have healthy snacks, for example cheese or fruit. The children enjoy physical exercise and fresh air whilst playing in the garden or

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Helping children to be healthy

during trips to the park. Toys and activities support children’s physical development and help with their hand eye coordination. Children develop warm and caring relationships with the childminder and other children. This supports their emotional well-being.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is good. Children benefit from the safe, secure and well-organised home where risks are minimised. Toys are age appropriate and of good quality enabling children to make safe choices about their play. The childminder ensures toys and equipment are kept clean and free from damage. Children learn how to keep themselves safe, particularly when out and about. The childminder teaches them how to cross roads safely. She ensures they are well supervised and safe at all times. Children are actively involved in the monthly fire drills enabling them to understand what to do in the event of a fire. The childminder has a secure knowledge and understanding of child protection issues. She has a good awareness of her responsibilities in safeguarding children’s welfare.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. Children settle quickly in a child friendly environment, helping them feel valued and

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 welcomed. They gain from the warm and caring relationship they develop with the childminder. Children develop independence and show sustained interest in their play, as they make their own choices from the easily accessed resources. The childminder helps children feel reassured, as she explains to them what is about to happen. Children’s language and communication skills are developed well by the childminder, who spends time talking with children and listening to what they have to say. Their early learning is encouraged during play, for example as they count cars or look at books. Story time is made more interesting with the use of puppets.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. The childminder has a positive attitude towards equal opportunities; as a result, all children are respected for who they are with their individual needs met. The childminder has knowledge of baby Makaton signing and makes appropriate use of this. Children develop a sense of belonging as they take part in the daily routines of the home. There are a few resources and activities that positively reflect other cultures and disability, helping children’s growing awareness of the wider world. Children benefit from lots of descriptive praise and encouragement. The childminder sets clear and consistent boundaries so children develop an understanding of acceptable behaviour. They learn to take turns, share toys and help tidy up. The childminder works closely with parents to support children and meet their needs. However, parents are not provided with sufficient information about the complaints

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Helping children make a positive contribution

procedure. Verbal feedback and daily contact books ensures parents are well informed about their child’s day. Positive relationships developed help children feel secure.

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Organisation

The organisation is good. The children gain from a well-organised environment and day, arranged to suit their needs and enjoyment. They have access to a range of stimulating and fun play resources and activities. They receive very good adult support and attention to help them feel comfortable and happy. Children are well supervised at all times, ensuring they are protected from unvetted persons and kept safe. The paperwork and required documentation is well organised. However, written consent from parents for obtaining emergency medical attention is not in place. The childminder attends training courses and workshops to keep herself informed of current childcare practices. The childminder meets the needs of the range of children for whom she provides.

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Organisation

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000

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Complaints since the last inspection

There have been no complaints made to Ofsted since registration. The provider is required to keep a record of complaints made by parents, which they can see on request. The complaints record may contain complaints other than those made to Ofsted.

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THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

On the basis of the evidence collected on this inspection:

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THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

The quality and standards of the care are good. The registered person meets the National Standards for under 8s day care and childminding.

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The quality and standards of the care

To improve the quality and standards of care further the registered person should take account of the following recommendation(s): • obtain written consent from parents for emergency medical advice or treatment • ensure parents are informed about the complaints procedure and that detail relating to the complaints record is accessible

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The quality and standards of the care

procedures set out in the leaflet Building better childcare: Compliments and concerns about inspectors' judgements which is available from Ofsted's website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

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The quality and standards of the care

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000

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