JennyPenworthamChildminder
Why choose a childminder?
There are many benefits a childminder can offer, the main one in my opinion is the small ratios which will ensure that your child will receive the much needed attention that they truly deserve. Having a secure and constant childcare option is ideal in the early years so that children can form a good secondary attachment, which is just what I will offer you and your child. Your child will have one consistent caregiver that they are able to form a secure attachment to without you having to worry about staffing or room changes which can really unsettle a child.
Will you teach all the same things as a nursery would?
Absolutely! All childminders and nurseries follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) which is a play based curriculum that the Government has put in place to ensure your child is ready for school. As a childminder I will offer your child the same opportunities they would receive at a nursery, but as my ratios are much lower, I will be able to offer this is a much more tailored way. Due to the small ratios I will also be able to tailor any activities to your child's individual interests and needs, so their attention is always fully retained.
As a smaller setting we are also able to get out and about much easier so outings don't have to be a once a week occurrence, in fact we are out and about most days, visiting parks, the beach, toddler groups, soft play centres, etc. As we are out and about I can also take advantage of spontaneous opportunities that arise, for example when the children stop because they are fascinated with watching a recycle truck load and unload its containers. I can take the time with them to explain what is happening, and we can extend that interest to learn more ways we can recycle at home.
Will my child socialise enough with a childminder?
Please do not be worried that your child will not mix with other children, nothing could be further from the truth. We go on so many outings to lots of exciting places. I also work with a close network of local childminders so your child will make plenty of friends!
How will you include me in my child's learning?
When your child first starts in my setting you will be asked to complete an 'All about me' booklet which is your chance to tell me all about your child! In return you will receive regular updates on their learning and development plus the statutory 2-year progress check report from myself which will highlight all your child's wonderful achievements and anything they may need additional help or support with - We will work together to help close any gaps and ensure your child reaches their full potential.
Every 2 months you will receive a newsletter which will outline any plans we have for the upcoming months, highlight any changes to the EYFS or Government changes (for example regarding funding) - it will also contain some lovely photos to show what the children have been doing over the past few weeks.
At the end of each week I will send photos via 'whatsapp' to you which I have taken throughout each day to show you all the fun, exciting things we've done, places we've been and creations your child has made - you are more than welcome to print these photos to create an album or simply chat to your child about them - it's a lovely way to round off the week!
