Childminder in Cheshire West and Chester

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY290811 Inspection date 10 May 2005 Inspector Denise Perry

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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 satisfactory. 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 lives with her 11 year old daughter. The family live in a semi-detached property in Chester, which is within walking distance of local amenities. The whole of the ground floor is used for childminding with the exception of the front lounge. Children have access to the bathroom and toilet on the first floor. There is also an enclosed garden for outdoor play. The family have a pet dog. The childminder is a member of the National Childminding Association.

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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

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is satisfactory. Children remain healthy because the childminder follows acceptable hygiene practices and procedures. Children learn about personal hygiene as part of their daily routine. They understand why they must wash their hands with soap and water after using the toilet, stroking the dog or before eating. Children's individual dietary needs are met. The childminder consults with parents about provision of snacks. This means that children's individual likes/dislikes and parental wishes are catered for. Children begin to understand the benefits of a healthy diet. They are encouraged to eat healthy foods and have ready access to drinking water and juice. Children's physical well-being is actively promoted. They enjoy physical activities by taking part in regular outings to local parks/playgrounds after school. Children will have additional opportunities to develop their physical skills, as the childminder

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Helping children to be healthy

intends to use the garden, which is well equipped with outdoor play equipment.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is good. Children are safe and secure. The childminder has taken effective steps to minimise risks in the home and garden. This means that they can move around safely, freely and independently. The childminder explains to children about potential hazards and makes them aware of the consequences of their actions. Children play an active part in keeping themselves safe. They have a good understanding on safety procedures during outings, as they talk about keeping in sight and sound of the childminder. Children are confident and are able choose from a range of well maintained toys and equipment, which are appropriate and meet the age range of children currently attending. Children's welfare is safeguarded. The childminder has a good understanding of local child protection procedures and has access to relevant information to assist her in dealing with any concerns to promote children's safety.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. Children settle well and are made welcome by the childminder. They have opportunities to relax after their school day and/or take part in activities. Children play well together and are extremely enthusiastic about what they do. Children are creative and imaginative. The childminder successfully supports children's learning

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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 through role play activities. Children gain good levels of self esteem and confidence in their individual abilities. The childminder gives consistent, meaningful praise and encouragement to acknowledge their achievements. Children's individual needs are met, as the childminder seeks ongoing information from children and parents about their requirements. She knows the children well, which enables her to support and encourage children's learning and development.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. Children learn to value and respect each other and adults. They have access to a sufficient range of toys and equipment that promote positive images of the wider world. The childminder actively encourages positive attitudes and promotes equality with the children. The childminder has a sound awareness of meeting the needs of children with special needs due to her knowledge and experience in this area. Children are well behaved and relate well towards each other and adults. They understand the boundaries and know what is expected from them. Children are valued. The childminder actively encourages good behaviour and appreciates children's efforts through praise and encouragement. Children benefit from the sound relationship the childminder has with parents. Parents spend time at the childminders house where information on children can be shared, thereby promoting children's welfare, care and learning.

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Organisation

The organisation is satisfactory. Children feel at home and at ease in their environment. The childminder keeps parents informed about the service and children's activities to ensure continuity of care. Most documentation is in place. Written agreements with parents have not been developed and not all accident records include parental signatures, as an acknowledgement of entry. This needs to be done to ensure children's care and welfare is maintained. Children are secure, confident and well supported. The childminder provides good levels of support and supervision to meet the needs of the children. Overall, the provision meets the needs of the children who attend.

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Improvements since the last inspection

Children's safety in the home and garden have been improved. The childminder has made low-level glass safe and removed the unprotected gas fire from the lounge.

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Improvements since the last inspection

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 satisfactory. 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): • Ensure a written agreement is in place with parents, which sets out the expectations of both parties as to the care of the child, activities provided and business arrangements. • Make sure parental consent is obtained to transport children in a vehicle and ensure all accident records include parental signatures.

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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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