Childminder in Stockport

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY319101 Inspection date 04 May 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 three children aged 14, 7 and 3 years. They live in a house in the Reddish area of Stockport within walking distance of schools, shops and parks. The whole of the ground floor, which includes the lounge, dining room, kitchen, conservatory and downstairs toilet, is used for childminding. There is a fully enclosed garden available for outside play. The family have a dog and a cat. 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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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 satisfactory. Children are protected from the risk of illness and infection through a clear sickness policy. The childminder has a suitable hygiene practice to promote welfare of children. Satisfactory nappy changing procedures prevent the risk of cross-infection and protect health. The childminder has clear awareness of health issues and emergency procedures. Accident and medication details are accurately recorded which safeguard the welfare of children. Children benefit from regular outings which help promote physical development. The childminder provides outdoor toys and equipment to suit the ages of children attending. Arrangements for the provision of food and drink are made in consultation with parents to meet individual requirements. The childminder works closely with parents to ensure that dietary requirements are met well. Babies’ food intakes are recorded each day and weaning progress discussed.

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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 a warm and comfortable environment. Areas are maintained safe and suitable for childminding purposes. Children become familiar with the setting and there is sufficient space to explore and play. Toys are suitably organised and rotated to promote interest. Sufficient resources are available for children aged from birth to 7 years which promote general development. Children are safe in the home as the childminder has taken appropriate measures to minimise hazards and prevent accidents. These include fire safety equipment and emergency evacuation procedures which protect children. There are suitable arrangements in place for outings and include appropriate car seats and restraints. Policies and procedures cover risk assessments and emergency situations. The childminder has a clear understanding of child protection issues and the local procedures. She uses a child protection statement to inform parents of her

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

responsibilities to safeguard the welfare of children.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is satisfactory. Children have warm and affectionate relationships with the childminder and her family. They develop confidence as they become familiar with the setting and toddler groups. Babies are happy and content as they are stimulated and nurtured. The childminder interacts well with them and ensures good eye contact. Children have a

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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 suitable variety of activities which promote their overall development, however, sensory play opportunities are limited. The childminder talks to the children and encourages language development in play. Babies respond well to sounds and take interest in the surroundings. The childminder has a clear understanding of the stages of development. She plans consistent routines which meet individual needs and promote security. These include regular outings which children enjoy and help them to socialise. Children settle well and make progress with the childminder.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. The childminder demonstrates a satisfactory understanding of equal opportunities. Individual requirements are discussed and recorded to ensure that needs are met. Toys are made accessible and the toy library used to provide choices for children. The childminder has sound awareness of special needs issues and aims to promote inclusion. The childminder has clear boundaries and suitable expectations of behaviour. Positive methods are used to promote good behaviour and self-esteem. Issues are discussed with parents to promote consistent care for children. The childminder promotes positive working relationships with parents. Regular discussions and appropriate record keeping ensure that the needs of children are met. A detailed policy and procedures file provides parents with information on childcare practice. The daily record sheet keeps parents well informed of children's routines and activities.

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Organisation

The organisation is satisfactory. Children are happy and well cared for in the home. The childminder plans suitable routines and organises space effectively to ensure that children are safe, stimulated and comfortable. Arrangements are made which meet the individual requirements of children and their parents. The childminder has completed a first aid course since registration to meet qualification requirements. Records and documentation are well organised and appropriately maintained, which contribute to the consistent care of children. The childminder demonstrates a clear understanding of her responsibilities and the childminding regulations. Overall, the provision meets the needs of the range of children for whom it provides.

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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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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 complaint 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): • develop sensory play opportunities and use of natural materials for children under 3 years.

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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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