Childminder in Coventry

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY270706 Inspection date 19 December 2005 Inspector Carol Johnson

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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 2003. She lives with her husband and adult child in Wyken, Coventry. The whole of the ground floor is used for childminding, together with the bathroom on the first floor. There is a fully enclosed garden for outside play. The childminder is registered to care for a maximum of six children when working alone and seven when working with an assistant. She currently cares for two children under five on a full-time basis and a further four all on a part-time basis.

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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 The childminder is a member of the National Childminding Association and holds a recognised early year's qualification.

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is good. Children are cared for in a clean and hygienic environment. They stay healthy because the childminder takes effective steps to prevent the spread of infection. She demonstrates a good knowledge of appropriate health and hygiene procedures and this is reflected in her everyday practice. For example, toilets and surfaces are regularly cleaned, individual towels and liquid soap are provided and no outdoor shoes are worn in the house. Children are encouraged to wash hands before and after meals, visiting the toilet or playing outside. They brush their teeth after meals and older children independently visit the toilet. Consequently, children are starting to take responsibility for their own personal care and are beginning to learn about good hygiene practices. Children's best interests are served should they become ill or have an accident because the childminder maintains appropriately stocked first aid

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Helping children to be healthy

supplies. She ensures that individual children's medical information is accurately exchanged and that parents are aware of her clear sickness policy. Children are well nourished as they are provided with a range of healthy and nutritious meals and snacks, for example, sandwiches, jacket potatoes, pasta and yoghurt. Children's allergies and dietary requirements are considered appropriately as the childminder talks to parents about their child’s needs and she records and respects individual requirements. Meal times are a relaxed and social occasion. Children sit at the table whilst eating and demonstrate good table manners. Children learn about the benefits of a healthy diet through everyday discussion and planned activities. They are encouraged to try different foods and accompany the childminder on shopping trips. They are offered a variety of healthy snacks and drinks are freely available. Children have their physical development well supported as they enjoy frequent

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Helping children to be healthy

physical activity both indoors and outside. Children get plenty of fresh air and regular exercise as they go outside in all weathers. Children play outside in the garden, where they can access wheeled toys, balls, a slide and small climbing equipment. Also, they attend weekly keep fit classes where they can practise and learn a range of physical skills, for example, running, jumping and balancing. Children are able to rest and sleep according to their individual requirements because daily routines are flexibly organised to suit children's needs and the childminder takes into account parental wishes.

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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 secure and safe indoor and outdoor environment. Areas

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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 used for childminding purposes are welcoming, spacious and well-organised. Equipment and resources are safely stored and there is plenty of room for children to rest and play. The childminder has thoroughly assessed and minimised potential risks to the children in her care. Good safety and security precautions are in place. For example, children's unsupervised access to the garden pond area is prevented by a fence and a secured gate, electric sockets are covered and safety catches are fitted to low-level cupboards in the kitchen. Children are well protected from the dangers of fire because they are made aware of emergency evacuation procedures as these are regularly practised. Suitable fire safety equipment is appropriately maintained. The childminder takes suitable steps to protect children's safety on outings and

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

children are learning to keep themselves safe through discussion and following safe practices. They learn about road safety, whilst on outings and they talk about, 'stranger danger'. Toys and equipment are checked for safety on a regular basis and older children play with toys with small parts either when younger ones not present or when they are otherwise engaged. Children's welfare is well protected because the childminder has a clear understanding of her role in child protection and she is confident of her ability to put appropriate procedures into practice if necessary. Through discussion she demonstrates a good knowledge of the possible signs and symptoms of abuse and appropriate recording and reporting procedures. She is currently accessing child protection training and she shares her written policy with parents. Children are only released into the care of known individuals and they are never left unsupervised with

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

persons who have not been suitably vetted, for example, workmen or visitors

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is good. Children are happy and having fun. They are able to access to a broad range of exciting and stimulating activities that help them to develop in all areas of learning. For example, children play with musical instruments, take part in craft activities and share books and stories. Children's learning is extended as the childminder talks to children, offers them support and asks questions. They learn through everyday activities such as shopping, cooking and laying the table. Children are provided with frequent opportunities to socialise and mix with other children and adults. They go on frequent outings to local places of interest, attend local community groups and visit the library. Toys and equipment are plentiful and of good quality, for example, books, games, construction toys, imaginary play items and small world resources. The childminder also borrows resources from local toy loan schemes to support and extend the

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

selection available to children. Resources are stored and presented to encourage children to make independent choices and add variety to their play. Children have good relationships with the childminder and their peers and they are settled and confident to explore and initiate their own play. They are learning to share and take turns and children happily play both independently and alongside each

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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 other. They are well nurtured as the childminder appropriately responds to and anticipates their needs. She recognises when they are tired, hungry or upset and children are at ease to go to her for comfort and support.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is good. Children are valued and receive individual care according to their needs. They have equal access to a good range of resources and activities that help them to develop a positive attitude towards others and gain a sense of belonging. For example, they can play with a range of puzzles, books, dolls, small world figures and multicultural play food and cooking utensils. They learn about the wider community during both planned and spontaneous discussions and activities. Children take part in craft activities based around religious and cultural festivals and they are encouraged to try food from around the world. Children behave well because the childminder effectively uses a range of age-appropriate strategies to manage behaviour. For example, she encourages children to share and uses distraction and explanation. Older children have created their own set of house rules and as a result are learning to take responsibility for their

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Helping children make a positive contribution

own actions and are developing an understanding of acceptable behaviour. Activities are exciting and suitable for children's abilities and stages of development and therefore they are engaged and eager to learn. Good behaviour and achievement is valued and rewarded with frequent praise and encouragement. Consequently, children are motivated to co-operate and behave The childminder is a positive role model for the children as she is calm, consistent and listens patiently to what they have to say. Information exchanged and regular discussion with parents actively promotes the welfare and care of the children. Shared written policies and procedures enhance the childminder's relationship with parents, however, not all contracts have been signed by the childminder. Examples of children's work are displayed and the childminder shares photographs, taken during daily activities, with parents. As a result children

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Helping children make a positive contribution

experience increased self-esteem and parents are kept informed of their activities and progress. The childminder displays a positive attitude towards caring for children with special needs. She has some experience and is willing to work in partnership with parents and other professionals to meet children's needs. Therefore, all parents can expect any requests for care to be carefully considered and support sought if necessary.

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Organisation

The organisation is good. Children's care is enhanced by efficient and effective organisation. They are happy, comfortable and settled in a welcoming and well planned environment. The main areas used for play are the lounge, kitchen and conservatory. Rooms are comfortable, warm and brightly decorated and there is plenty of space for children to

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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 play and move in safety. Daily routines are flexible and take into account children's needs and parental wishes. Parents and children benefit from the childminders professional attitude and commitment to training which is reflected in the level of care and service she provides. She has attended a broad range of courses to extend her knowledge and understanding of child care related issues and she holds a recognised childcare qualification. Required ratios are met and maintained and as a result children receive a sufficient level of attention and supervision. The childminder uses assistants, when necessary, to help care for children and they are able to provide cover in the case of emergencies or sickness. The childminder ensures that they are clear with regards to her written policies and procedures and as a result children are secure and receive

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Organisation

continuity and consistency of care. Shared written policies and generally well-maintained documentation ensure the safe and effective management of the setting. Confidential information is securely stored. Overall, the childminder meets the needs of the children who attend.

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Improvements since the last inspection

At the last inspection the childminder was asked to improve safety with regards to the fire in the lounge and a fireguard has now been fitted. She also agreed to attend a recognised first aid course and obtain written permission, from parents, for the seeking of emergency medical advice or treatment. Both of these issues have been fully addressed and children's overall welfare has been improved.

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Complaints since the last inspection

There have been no complaints made to Ofsted since the last inspection. The provider is required to keep a record of complaints made by parents, which they can see on request. The complaints record may contain complaints other than those made to Ofsted.

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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 MUST BE DONE TO SECURE FUTURE IMPROVEMENT?

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

To improve the quality and standards of care further the registered person should take account of the following recommendation(s): • improve documentation to support an effective partnership with parents, for example, by ensuring that written contracts are signed by both parties.

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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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