Childminder in Rotherham

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number 303078 Inspection date 12 August 2005 Inspector Lynn Masterman

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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 1992. She lives with her two teenage children. The whole of the ground floor of the childminder’s house is used for childminding and there is a fully enclosed garden for outside play. The family have a dog and two cats. The childminder is registered to care for a maximum of six children at any one time and is currently minding three children under 5 and six children over 5 before and after school. Children attend on a full and part-time basis. The childminder walks to local schools to take and collect children. She regularly attends the local play group and the childminder's group in the area.

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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 good. Children have the opportunity to develop and observe good hygiene practice through a range of activities which are part of the daily routine. They are familiar with appropriate hand washing procedures and have a clear understanding of the importance of good hygiene practice. For example, children are aware that regular hand washing prevents the spread of germs. Effective procedures ensure sick children are comforted and the risk of infection to other children is minimal. Signs and symptoms are promptly recognised and parents are informed, ensuring children are cared for appropriately. Children enjoy a range of healthy snacks which include a variety of fruit, yoghurt and vegetables. They have the opportunity to make choices and are encouraged to access low sugar foods and drink and particular attention is given to the additives in food. The childminder demonstrated a positive awareness of developing children's

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Helping children to be healthy

attitude to a healthy diet. For example, children are beginning to understand that healthy food gives you energy. She recognises the importance of children receiving a regular intake of fluid and they are offered and able to access drinks easily. A warm, caring relationship is fostered which enables children to explore food, feed themselves and develop independence. The childminder takes account of parents' wishes and children's individual choices to provide a suitable diet. The childminder has a positive approach to physical exercise and recognises the importance of fresh air and exercise which develops their skills and maintains a healthy life. Children have the opportunity to access a good range of outdoor play activities which develops their confidence, physical movement and social skills. Regular outings include visits to local parks, woods, play areas and planned group outings to places of interest. For example, children go for walks in the woods and the

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Helping children to be healthy

childminder uses the opportunity to develop their awareness of nature and the environment. The individual needs of children are given careful consideration to ensure the physical exercise is a positive experience, for example, the childminder is responsive and has the skills to recognise when children need to rest. Younger children are provided with play resources which develop their physical stages, for example, the development of hand and eye co-ordination, crawling, jumping and participating in simple games and action songs.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is good. Children are cared for in a well organised environment where risks are identified and appropriate steps are taken to minimise potential hazards. Children are well supervised which ensures accidents are minimal and they are able to move around safely and independently. They are encouraged to be aware of their safety and the childminder reminds them of the consequences of their actions, for example, "don't climb on the chair because you might fall and hurt yourself". Particular attention is

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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 given to children on outings and walking to school. Group outings are well planned and children's safety is given high priority. For example, children made their own badges which have the childminder's mobile telephone number inscribed. Children are familiar with the safety rules when walking to school and opportunities are used positively to promote road safety. This results in children being aware of their own safety and that of others. Children are independently able to self-select from a good range of age-appropriate play resources and equipment which are easily accessible, clean, well maintained and of a high standard. Play resources are checked on a daily basis to ensure they are safe, for example, there are no sharp or loose parts that may cause a child injury. Resources are stored securely at child height which promotes their independence,

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

confidence and the opportunity to make informed choices about their play. The childminder has a good understanding of her responsibility for the protection and care of children. Sound knowledge of appropriate procedures and documentation for child protection and the use of first aid ensures children are safe and their welfare is paramount.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. Children have access to a warm and welcoming environment where they are happy and confident. They respond warmly with affection to the childminder and receive lots of positive interaction. They communicate easily with each other and this helps children to enjoy and achieve. The childminder is skilled in promoting children's self-esteem and they receive positive praise and encouragement for their achievements. Children are encouraged to be independent, make informed choices and have fun through play. They have access to a good range of planned activities which promotes their learning and development both inside and outside the premises. Consideration is given to children's age and stages of development with a view that all children are included and can participate. Activities are planned and purposeful. They support children's language, mathematical thinking and imaginative development. Good use is made of

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

opportunities to familiarise children with language and literacy. For example, all children's names were written and displayed on the wall. They were given the opportunity to plan, copy their name using small coloured letters, name the colour of the letter and count the number of letters used. The childminder recognised the level of support needed for each child and withdrew appropriately. This ensured the inclusion of all children, the opportunity to learn new skills and to make connections.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is good. Children are happy, settled and confident. They are valued as individuals and routines are discussed with parents, which ensures appropriate steps are taken to

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Helping children make a positive contribution

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 provide a suitable environment where children can grow and develop. Children are responded to with warmth, affection and understanding which develops their sense of self-worth and feeling valued. They have the opportunity to access a variety of activities which promotes their global development and resources are used positively to provide sufficient challenge. Children's awareness of equal opportunities and diversity is fostered effectively through discussion, the celebration of festivals and the use of a good and varied range of play resources. Children receive positive praise and encouragement for their achievements which develops their confidence and self-esteem. Appropriate strategies ensure the effective management of children's behaviour. They are offered reason and

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Helping children make a positive contribution

explanation with the use of distraction and alternatives. For example, children are offered time out and are encouraged to look how their behaviour effects others. Children are familiar with the boundaries of acceptable behaviour and have a clear understanding of their purpose. For example, "we need to share and be kind to each other". Parental involvement is encouraged and there is a positive relationship. Information is shared on a daily basis with parents about their child's day and achievements. The childminder works effectively with parents, which ensures children's individual needs are fully met.

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Organisation

The organisation is good. The childminder is well organised and has a good routine which contributes to children feeling safe, being part of group and having a secure base. They move around the home confidently and are clearly at ease with the environment. The childminder manages her time effectively which ensures all children receive a good level of care, are well supervised and appropriately supported in their learning. Space is well used and planned to ensure children are able to access a variety of play opportunities and experiences. There are a good range of policies and procedures which contribute to effective organisation of the setting and ensure children are cared for in a safe and secure environment. Parents are kept well informed about their children's achievements and the daily routine. The childminder has a strong commitment to training. She wishes to further develop her knowledge of children with special needs which will enhance her child

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Organisation

care practice and the service for parents. Overall the provision meets the needs of all the children who attend.

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Improvements since the last inspection

Since the previous inspection the childminder has improved children's safety and wellbeing. Written documentation and parental permission are now in place in relation to the transportation of children in a vehicle and the care of minded children in an emergency. The loose bricks on the low-level wall have now been made safe. These improvements have contributed to the health and safety of all children.

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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 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 knowledge and understanding of special needs.

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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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