Childminder in Coventry

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY300304 Inspection date 22 July 2005 Inspector Tracey Marie Boland

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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 February 2005 and works alongside another childminder to provide care. The lounge, kitchen, first floor bathroom and back bedroom are used for minding purposes and there is an enclosed garden for outside play. There are a variety of local amenities within walking distance and a direct bus route into the City centre. The childminder is registered to care for a maximum of four children when working on her own but may care for a maximum of six children, two of whom may be under 5 years, when working with another childminder. During the inspection there were four

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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 minded children present. There are no pets. The childminder is a member of the National Childminding Association.

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is good. Children are cared for in a clean environment and learn the importance of good hygiene and personal care through daily routines. They are aware of the need to wash their hands after using the toilet and before eating. The spread of infection is minimised through thorough cleaning routines and clear procedures for food preparation throughout the day. Children benefit from accessing drinks throughout the day. They are learning about healthy eating through the provision of snacks and freshly prepared meals. Parents are encouraged to share all information regarding specific dietary requirements which are respected. Medical records are held and shared with parents. Clear policies with regard to health are discussed with parents and clear exclusion periods are in place for children with infectious illnesses, to ensure the health of all the children is maintained. Clear procedures are in place for dealing with accidents, however, a first aid certificate

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Helping children to be healthy

should be obtained. Children enjoy a wide range of activities that promote their health, including daily outdoor play. They are able to develop their physical skills through the use of wheeled toys and balls and through daily walks.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is good. Children benefit from being cared for in an environment where risks have been identified and addressed well. They are able to move around the home independently, using the lounge and kitchen for activities and meal times. Resources are suitably stored in boxes and children access them safely. The childminder is mindful of the ages and abilities of the children and supports children with the choices they make, to ensure suitability. Consistent reinforcement of safety issues with the children ensures they are developing an understanding of how to keep themselves safe, both in the home and when out. They benefit from direct supervision when playing outdoors. Children's welfare is protected through the childminder's good understanding of her role and responsibilities with regard to child protection.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

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 achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. Children are happy, relaxed and settle well into their activities. They benefit from a wide range of resources and activities that promote their development and encourage their social skills. They are learning about shapes, colours and numbers through daily routines and activities. Children are excited when listening to favourite stories and join in enthusiastically. They regularly visit places of interest, for example the city farm, and photographs are displayed to enable discussion between the children and their parents about what they have done. Parents benefit from time afforded to them, keeping them up to date with progress. They are encouraged to share information about their child's needs and abilities which are recorded and play tailored to meet those needs. Regular assessment records and a daily diary are completed, which contributes to good partnership with parents.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is good. Children choose from a good range of resources that reflect our diverse culture and the wider world. Posters, books and toys are freely available and children are learning about different festivals that take place, trying foods from various countries. All children are seen as individuals and their routines are integrated into the day. Time spent with parents ensures their needs are known and respected. Children are developing an understanding of sharing and taking turns and behaviour is excellent, through the consistent and caring approach of the adults. A clear policy is in place and shared with parents, ensuring they too are fully aware of the strategies used throughout the day.

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Organisation

The organisation is good. Children are able to move freely within the home, choosing appropriate activities and resources available to them. Parents benefit from time spent discussing the care they require and sharing detailed written policies and procedures which are in place within the setting. Parents are also made aware of the National Standards. Daily written and verbal discussion ensures that parents are fully informed of their child's progress. All records are stored securely and confidentially. Overall, the provision meets the needs of the children who attend.

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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 Not applicable, as the childminders first inspection.

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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): • ensure a valid first aid certificate is maintained.

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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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