Setting

Inspection report for early years provision

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EY343987 Unique Reference Number 02 July 2007 Inspection date Maura Pigram Inspector

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Childcare Type of inspection Childminding Type of care

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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

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The key inspection judgements and what they mean

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 was registered in 2006. She lives with her two adult daughters in west Watford, close to local schools and amenities. The whole of the ground floor is used for childminding and there is access to a secure garden for outside play. The family has two cats. The childminder is registered to care for six children at any one time and is currently minding two children, who attend on a part-time basis.

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is satisfactory. Children have a clear understanding of good health and hygiene, as they participate in daily routines to maintain this. Shoes are removed when they come indoors and the children are reminded to wash their hands following using the toilet or before meals. This means that they develop sound personal hygiene habits. They are protected from cross-infection because the childminder has a clear policy in place regarding exclusion of children who have a contagious illness. Consequently, parents and carers are aware of the procedure to follow if their children are ill.

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Helping children to be healthy

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 generally have their health and dietary needs met because the childminder works with the parents. She is aware of allergies and dietary requirements which are discussed and recorded. The childminder has some awareness of promoting healthy eating. For example, she ensures that any food she provides is healthy and nutritious. Children can rest and sleep according to their needs, the childminder is careful to meet parental wishes regarding sleep patterns and routines. As a result, children settle quickly and easily when they are put down to rest.

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Helping children to be healthy

Children have ample opportunity for physical exercise. Everyday they go outdoors, either to local parks or to play in the garden. They enjoy feeding the ducks, playing on swings and slides or playing football in the nearby parks. The childminder and the children regularly use appropriate resources such as bean bags and ball games. Consequently, they enjoy activities which help to promote their physical development.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is satisfactory. Children are cared for in a warm and welcoming environment. The childminder ensures that the space is well-organised and appropriate action is taken to minimise any potential risks. For example, prior to children arriving the childminder visually checks all loose leads and electrical sockets to ensure they are safe. This ensures that the children can move around and explore safely. Resources are rotated according to children's interests. The childminder frequently reviews her resources. Consequently, the developmental needs of the children are met. These are cleaned and checked frequently to make sure they are safe for children to use. They are of good quality and appropriate for the developmental needs of the children.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

Children learn how to keep themselves safe by the explanations, boundaries and the close supervision of the childminder. They practise the evacuation procedure. This means that the children know what to do on an emergency. When they are out and about they learn how to protect themselves. For example, they are taught awareness of road safety during school collection times and on their visits to the park. Reins are used for younger children. This gives them a sense of independence whilst keeping them safe. The childminder has a satisfactory knowledge of child protection reporting procedures. She is aware of procedures to follow if she had any concerns. As a result, the children's welfare is safeguarded.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. Children settle and become happy in the setting because the childminder ensures that she knows them well. She provides a relaxed environment in which they can feel at home. Consequently, they confidently access the stimulating and interesting resources available for them. For example, favourite toys and activities are set up for them prior to their arrival. This means that they quickly settle and enjoy their time spent with the childminder. They particularly enjoy nursery rhymes playing in the background. Young children join in with familiar tunes such as 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star'. The childminder shows the children various musical instruments to stimulate their interest and enjoyment. As a result, they develop self-esteem and are busy and content.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

Children's play and learning is effectively supported as the childminder consistently provides positive interaction. This demonstrates that she is interested in what they say and do. She is involved with the children at all times and is aware of the 'Birth to three matters' framework. She is researching suitable courses to further develop her knowledge further. A broad range

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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 of suitable activities are planned to suit the varied developmental needs of different aged children. For example, older children enjoy baking whilst younger children happily play with play dough and various tools. The children take part in regular outings to stimulating places of interest such as Cassiobury Park. They also visit local age appropriate groups and confidently take part in the activities on offer such as dancing and singing. This means that they are able to socialise with other children outside the setting.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. Children are valued and emotionally secure because the childminder is warm and kind towards them. Their individual care needs are met as the childminder knows the children very well. The childminder works with parents to resolve any behaviour issues. She is consistent and very calm. As a result, she is a good role model and younger children learn right from wrong by the simple explanations and body language used. Simple explanations help them to learn and respond to appropriate expectations for their behaviour.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

Children are helped to make choices and take decisions about their play and personal needs throughout the day. This means that they are actively encouraged to develop their independence. Resources such as jigsaws, story books, art and craft books and small play figures reflect diversity. Consequently, children develop an understanding of the differences in the society. The childminder is happy to provide care for children with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Activities are adapted to suit each child's individual need. As a result, all children develop a sense of self-worth.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

A close partnership with parents and carers contributes to the children’s well-being. Children's and parents' needs are considered prior to commencing childminding. This takes into account requirements for flexible childcare. Information about the setting is provided and diaries are used if requested. Consequently, children are well supported in the transition between home and the childminder so that they become confident and make good progress. The childminder knows of the requirement to record any complaints made in writing by parents.

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Organisation

The organisation is satisfactory. Children are looked after within a safe and secure environment where they can rest, play and eat in comfort. They are provided with appropriate and interesting activities which are suitable for their age and stage of development. The childminder spends all of her time with the children interacting and playing with them. As a result, children have a warm and positive relationship with her. The childminder has developed a portfolio and shares policies and procedures with parents. In addition, the childminder is proactive in developing her practice and knowledge. She has recently completed a child protection and a food hygiene course. Consequently, the children's needs and welfare are paramount.

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Organisation

Appropriate documentation is maintained, which works in practice to promote children’s health, safety, enjoyment, achievement and ability to make a positive contribution. Children's records such as diaries are used so that continuity of care can take place. Overall the children’s needs are met.

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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.

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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 snacks and meals that are provided by parents are nutritious.

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The quality and standards of the care

set out in the leaflet Complaints about Ofsted Early Years: concerns or complaints about Ofsted's role in regulating and inspecting childcare and early education (HMI ref no 2599) 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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