Childminder, Out-of school day care in Halton

This provision meets requirements

The childminder provides a wonderful home-from-home environment in which children settle quickly and eagerly become immersed in the activities provided. Children clearly enjoy attending this welcoming hive of activity and wish to share their experiences with visitors. The childminder gathers detailed information about each child when they first start to attend. She uses this information effectively to provide opportunities that ignite children's interest and help them develop a sense of belonging. For example, the childminder appreciates that some children enjoy drawing and engaging in craft activities. She therefore ensures that she provides an exciting craft activity that she knows children will find motivating. As a result, on arrival, children are eager to find out what awaits them and excitedly begin to explore.

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This provision meets requirements

Children understand the high expectations that the childminder has for their behaviour. They treat each other, and the childminder, with kindness and respect. Children are mindful of the need to consider the feelings of others. For example, when tidying away toys, children seek out their friends and ask their permission before dismantling models they have previously made. This makes for an incredibly harmonious atmosphere. All children behave incredibly well.

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need to do better?

n The childminder cares deeply about the children and their families. She considers their views when evaluating her provision and planning future changes. The childminder carefully targets further professional development and conducts her own research in order to enhance her skills in support of the children she cares for. This dedicated approach helps to ensure that the childminder's practice reflects the individual needs of children who attend. n Children demonstrate high levels of confidence. They play together, explore, and enjoy trying out their ideas. For example, children of all ages use construction kits to build a variety of models. They offer each other advice and welcome the suggestions made by the childminder. Older children follow the lead of the childminder and offer praise to their younger friends, who find this incredibly motivating. They help each other to overcome any challenges the

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need to do better?

construction presents and are proud of their achievements. This effectively supports children's self-confidence. n The childminder provides a healthy and nutritious variety of snacks which children enjoy. She reminds children of the importance of eating a healthy diet and ensures that children have fresh drinking water available at all times. Children enjoy the sociable snack routines. After washing their hands, they sit at the table together, choosing what to put on their plate and chatting with each

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need to do better?

22 February 2024 other about what they have done during the day. This familiar routine contributes successfully to children's well-being and social skills. n Children have ample opportunities to play outdoors in the childminder's garden. For example, older children practise football skills while younger children throw and catch balls. The childminder is always on hand to celebrate achievements and join in children's play. Older children are mindful of the safety of their younger friends. For example, they remind them to ask the childminder for help when the football goes in the bushes. Children of all ages benefit greatly from their time in the fresh air. n Written testimonies from parents are incredibly positive. Parents appreciate the care the childminder provides and remark that they value the 'second home' their children have found. The childminder develops close relationships with families and communicates with them regularly, passing on messages from

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need to do better?

school and discussing what activities children have enjoyed while with her. Communication is a strength and helps the childminder to ensure she meets children's needs. n The childminder fosters good professional relationships with staff in the schools that children attend. She liaises with class teachers about the time children spend in school. This means that the childminder is aware of what children are currently learning in school. She uses this information to effectively support children's developing knowledge and skills. This consistent approach ensures continuity in children's experiences.

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Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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Safeguarding

There is an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children's interests first.

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Setting details

Unique reference number EY497058 Local authority Halton Inspection number 10308579 Type of provision Childminder

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Registers

Early Years Register, Compulsory Childcare Register, Voluntary Childcare Register Day care type Childminder

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inspection

Total number of places 10 Number of children on roll 11 Date of previous inspection 23 March 2018

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Information about this early years setting

The childminder registered in 2016 and lives in Widnes. She operates from 7.30am to 8.55am and 3.15pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, term time only. The childminder holds an appropriate qualification at level 6.

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Inspection activities

n This was the first routine inspection the childminder received since the COVID- 19 pandemic began. The inspector discussed the impact of the pandemic with the childminder and has taken that into account in their evaluation of the provider. n The childminder showed the inspector the premises and discussed how they ensure it is safe and suitable. n Children spoke to the inspector about what they enjoy doing while with the childminder. n The inspector observed the interactions between the childminder and children. n The childminder provided the inspector with a sample of key documentation on request. n Parents shared their written views of the setting with the inspector.

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Inspection activities

22 February 2024 We carried out this inspection under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006 on the quality and standards of provision that is registered on the Early Years Register. The registered person must ensure that this provision complies with the statutory framework for children's learning, development and care, known as the early years foundation stage.

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Inspection activities

22 February 2024 regulates and inspects to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages. It regulates and inspects childcare and children's social care, and inspects the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), schools, colleges, initial teacher training, further education and skills, adult and community learning, and education and training in prisons and other secure establishments. It assesses council children's services, and inspects services for looked after children, safeguarding and child protection.

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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