Childminder in Stockport

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY292089 Inspection date 18 May 2005 Inspector Julie Wright

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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 has been registered since 2004. She lives with her husband and daughter aged two years. They live in a house in the Vernon Park area of Stockport within walking distance of shops, schools and a park. The whole of the ground floor, which includes the living room, dining kitchen and bathroom are used for childminding. There is a fully enclosed garden available for outside play. The family have a dog. The childminder attends the local carer and toddler group on a regular basis. She is a

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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 member of the National Childminding Association.

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is good. Children are protected from the risk of illness and infection through the clear sickness policy. They learn good hygiene routines such as washing their hands before eating and after using the toilet. Individual needs are known and met well through discussion with parents and record keeping. Children's own eating and sleeping routines are followed to ensure consistency and contentment in the home. A variety of opportunities for outings are provided. Children are taken to toddler groups, the park and play in the garden. They enjoy visits, socialise with others and learn simple limits such as how high they can climb and how to use equipment, their physical development is promoted. Arrangements for meals are made in consultation with parents to meet individual requirements. Children benefit from healthy snacks and regular drinks which promote their growth and development.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is good. Children feel secure in the warm and comfortable environment. There is sufficient space for them to play, explore, eat and sleep. They can access age-appropriate toys which are rotated to promote their interest. Resources are available at present to promote development for children aged from birth to five years. Children are safe in the home, with indoor and outdoor hazards minimised. The childminder supervises the children at all times and demonstrates a good understanding of safety issues. Children learn about responsibility, they are encouraged not to have too much out at one time and to help tidy up. Play space is maintained in a safe condition for children. The childminder has a clear understanding of child protection issues and the local procedures. She uses a child protection statement with parents to inform them of her responsibilities. The welfare of the children is promoted.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. The childminder has warm relationships with the children. They are familiar with the setting and each other. Children are stimulated and play happily together. The childminder interacts well with them and supports their learning in play. She sits on the floor to ensure good eye contact during activities and physical help as required.

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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 Children enjoy singing action rhymes and repeating animal sounds to develop their language and communication skills. Children have consistent routines to meet their needs. Suitable arrangements can be made for day time rest. The childminder has a clear understanding of the ages and stages of development. Toys, such as age-appropriate jig-saws, are selected to suit the ages of the children present so that they can achieve goals. The childminder can access the toy library for additional resources and describes suitable activities for children over the age of 5 years, therefore the needs of all children are considered.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is good. The childminder has a clear understanding of equal opportunities. She provides resources which reflect diversity so that children learn about differences in themselves and others. The childminder encourages positive attitudes in children as they are encouraged to share, be kind and say sorry if someone is hurt. The childminder has work experience of adults with special needs. She has a good awareness of related issues and will consider the needs of all children to promote inclusion. Children respond well to the positive approach to behaviour management. They follow simple instructions and are praised for their achievements. The childminder has warm, affectionate relationships with the children who feel secure in the home. Self-esteem is nurtured as they enjoy some activities to develop awareness of themselves. The childminder promotes good working relationships with parents. Regular

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Helping children make a positive contribution

discussions and record keeping ensure that the needs of children are met. Parents are advised of childcare policies during the introductory period and receive written information on child protection.

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Organisation

The organisation is good. The children are well cared for in the home. The childminder plans suitable use of space and daily routines to meet the needs of the children attending. She has recently completed a first aid course to enhance the welfare of the children. Records and documentation are maintained and clearly organised. The childminder demonstrates a good understanding of her responsibilities as a childminder. The information shared ensures consistency of care for children. Overall the provision meets the needs of the range of children for whom it 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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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): • develop the play opportunities for children such as exploring everyday objects, natural materials and mirror image to promote natural curiosity and self-awareness

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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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