As an Ofsted registered childminder I aim to work in partnership with parents to meet the needs of the children.
All children and adults are treated with equal concern and are made to feel welcome in my home.
I keep up to date about working in partnership with parents and carers and with relevant legislation by taking regular training.
All parents receive a copy of my policies and procedures, which detail how I run my setting.
I draw up and sign a written contract with parents before the placement starts, which detail the expectations of care to be provided, activities and business arrangements. The contract is signed by the parent(s) and myself and dated. A copy is given to the parent(s) and any other party involved in the financial arrangements. I issue receipts for all monies paid. The contract is reviewed every 12 months or when circumstances change.
Wherever possible I try to meet parents’ requests for the care of their children according to their values and practices, preferences and attitudes. Family customs and beliefs about dietary requirements, dress code, hair and skin care, help required with toilet and washing are respected as detailed in my equal opportunity policy.
Records of the requirements agreed are kept attached to the child record forms. These records are revisited and updated during regular reviews with parents.
I keep parents regularly informed about my daily routines and childcare practices and share information about the children with parents using face-to-face meetings. I informally share information when the children are collected or dropped off.
I maintain a record of parent(s)’ and/or emergency contact details, contact details for the child’s GP and appropriate signed consent forms. All details will be kept confidential and records are kept secure.
Children will only be released from my care to the parent(s)/carer(s), or to someone named and authorised by the parent/carer. A password might be used to confirm identity if the person collecting the child is not previously known to me.
If a child is identified as a child in need (section 17 of the Children Act 1989) I will, normally with the parent’s permission, give appropriate information to referring agencies.
I expect parents to inform me of any changes in the child’s home circumstances, care arrangements or any other change which may affect the child’s behaviour, such as a new baby, parents’ separation, divorce or any bereavement. All information shared will be kept confidential unless there appears to be a child protection issue.
I offer regular review meetings with parents to discuss their child’s care and education and any issues or concerns, preferably when the child is not present. If I do not share the same first language as the parents, I will take whatever action necessary to facilitate effective communication. This may include seeking guidance from the local early year’s team.
I together with parents need to make sure that the care of their child is consistent. A consistent approach benefits the child’s welfare and ensures the child is not confused.
All complaints will be investigated. Please see my Complaints Policy.
All significant incidents are recorded and will be shared and discussed with parents so that we can work together to resolve any issues.