Childminder in Stockport

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY301201 Inspection date 05 January 2006 Inspector Julie Wright

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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 has been registered since 2005. She lives with her husband and two children aged 8 and 4 years. They live in a house in the Bredbury area of Stockport, which is within walking distance of schools, shops and parks. The whole of the ground floor is used for childminding. This includes a front room, dining kitchen, conservatory area and toilet facilities. There is a fully enclosed garden available for outside play. There is currently one child on roll who attends 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 attends the local carer and toddler group on a regular basis. She is a member of the National Childminding Association.

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is satisfactory. Children are protected from the risk of illness and infection through the clear sickness policy. The childminder promotes good hygiene practice and children learn simple routines. Suitable nappy changing procedures are in place which prevent risk of cross-infection and protect health. The childminder has a good awareness of health issues. Accident and medication records are accurately maintained to safeguard the welfare of children. A variety of opportunities for outings are provided. Children are taken to toddler groups, the park or may play in the garden. They enjoy visits to socialise with others, and they develop new skills and confidence. The children progress well as the childminder provides equipment and attention to support different stages of development. Arrangements for the provision of food and drink are made in consultation with parents to meet individual requirements. The childminder has a sound awareness of

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Helping children to be healthy

healthy eating to promote the growth and development of children. The dietary requirements for children are met well.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is satisfactory. Children are settled and secure in the warm, comfortable environment. Areas are suitably defined to meet the needs of children, such as a quiet room, main play area and the garden. They are familiar with the setting and move around freely as they explore and play. Toys are made accessible and rotated to promote interest. Resources are available for children aged from birth to eight years which promote most areas of development. Children are generally safe in the home, with most indoor hazards minimised. Additional safety equipment is available for use as required, such as the stair gate, however, the corners on tables pose a risk to children. There are safe arrangements in place for outings, which include age-appropriate car seats and restraints. Play space is maintained in a clean and tidy condition for children. The garden is enclosed and used under supervision of the childminder, however, there are some building

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

materials accessible to children. The childminder has a clear understanding of child protection issues and the local procedures. She updates her knowledge and awareness, demonstrating a commitment to safeguard the welfare of children.

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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 satisfactory. The childminder has warm and affectionate relationships with the children. They are familiar with the setting, happy and settled. Children enjoy a variety of activities and play contentedly in the environment. The childminder interacts well with them during play. She sits on the floor to ensure good eye contact and to give cuddles, reassurance and support. The childminder talks to the children and plays interactive games, such as hide-peep. Babies respond well to sound toys and music, which help to develop their language and communication. Children have consistent routines which meet their needs. The childminder has a clear understanding of the stages of physical development. Children enjoy regular outings to socialise and develop confidence in a group setting. They have a suitable variety of toys in the house and also explore some everyday objects such as pegs, wooden spoons and paper. Children show interest in their surroundings and are

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

stimulated as they move around. Their general development is promoted.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. In discussion the childminder demonstrates a clear understanding of equal opportunities. Children have equal access to toys and equipment, although there are few resources which reflect diversity. The childminder knows the individual needs of children well and responds promptly to their needs. She is aware of their personalities and preferences and recognises changes in behaviour, such as being tired or thirsty. The childminder has a sound awareness of special needs issues and aims to promote inclusion. Children respond well to the childminder and the age-appropriate methods to manage behaviour. The childminder sets clear boundaries and reasonable expectations of behaviour. Children become aware of the simple house rules and learn to be co-operative, for example, in helping to put toys away. Children are praised during play to promote their self-esteem. The childminder promotes positive working relationships with parents. Regular

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Helping children make a positive contribution

discussions and appropriate record keeping ensure that the needs of children are met. Parents are advised of childcare practice and routines during the settling-in period.

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Organisation

The organisation is satisfactory. Children are happy and well cared for in the home. The childminder plans the day and organises space effectively to meet their needs. She considers the ages of the children and ensures that their individual routines, such as meal and sleep times, are included. They benefit from the various play opportunities and outings. The

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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 childminder has completed a first aid course since registration to meet requirements and ensure a current certificate. The records and documentation are clearly organised and appropriately maintained, contributing to the consistent care of children. The childminder has a clear understanding of her responsibilities as a childminder. Overall the provision meets the needs of the range of children for whom it provides.

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Complaints since the last inspection

There are no complaints to report. 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 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 that all hazards in the house are minimised and that the garden is safe prior to use with minded children • develop the variety of natural play materials for sensory play and improve the range of resources which reflect diversity.

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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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