Are you OFSTED registered?

Yes, a copy of my OFSTED registration certificate is displayed on my noticeboard to view at any time. 

 

When are you open?

Monday-Thursday, 8am-6pm. Early drop off and late pick up available (7am to 7pm)

 

How much do you charge?

I charge £8.50 an hour. **Hourly rate is fixed for the duration that your child is in my care** Fees are charged by the hour. A minimum of 7.5 hours on any given day is required. 

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How do I pay you?

Fees are required one month in advance by bank transfer to my account.

 

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, I request 2 weeks fees as a placeholding deposit which will come off your first invoice. 

 

Do you smoke?

No we have a strictly non smoking household.

 

I have to work on bank holidays are you able to care for my child on these days?

I can work public or bank holidays by special request.

 

Who lives with you?

My husband and my son (Born 2014).

 

Who do you work with?

I work alone and so will be your child's key person. My Husband (Who is fully DBS checked) occasionally works from home based from an external garden office. 

 

Are you qualified?

Yes, I am trained in paediatric first aid, generalist and specialist safeguarding, Level 2 Food hygiene and safety and hold the relevant childcare qualification. I am DBS checked and OFSTED registered. I am fully insured. All certificates are available to view on request. 

 

What facilities do you have?

We have a dedicated play room leading out to our garden which allows for lots of free flow play, a kitchen diner for baking and arts and crafts activities, downstairs toilet facilities and a large lounge for quiet reading and sleeping. 

 

Do you provide food?

Yes, I provide healthy drinks and snacks for free. Healthy meals incur a small charge or packed lunches can be brought if you prefer. 

 

Can I pay using childcare vouchers or the governments tax-free childcare scheme? 

Yes, I accept all childcare vouchers. I am also signed up to the governments tax-free childcare scheme should you wish to pay this way. 

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Do you have any pets or animals?

No.  

 

What is a typical day?

Your childs day will be divided between child-led and adult-led activities. To limit the use of children being in the car we aim to do as many outings in the locality on foot/in buggies so that we can benefit from and enjoy daily fresh air and exercise.

 

Do you offer settling in sessions?

Yes, I am happy to offer settling in sessions and we can discuss how many you would like. All settling in sessions are charged at the usual hourly rate.

 

Is your property safe for my child?

Thorough risk assessments have been performed on my home to ensure it is safe as possible for your child. A fire blanket, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detector are all installed and regularly checked. Blind safety cords and stair gates are fitted throughout. 

 

How will you treat my child?

Your child will receive the best possible care. We have some simple house rules in place which your child will be asked to abide by but the focus is on a fun, safe, loving, home from home environment where your child matters and is not just a number. 

 

How will I know what my child has done each day?

All children who do not yet attend school will have a daily diary. Their diary will be completed after each session spent with me and will give you a full account of all meals, snacks, naps, nappies and activities your child has done. In addition, each child has their own online learning journal in a system called Tapestry which details all my observations and photographs of them linked to the 7 areas of the EYFS and any characteristics of effective learning. I am also available to chat about your child at any time. 

 

What if I have any concerns or questions?

I am available via phone or via email to answer any questions or concerns you may have. It is important that both you and your child are happy whilst in my care. If your concern is of a serious nature you may contact OFSTED directly, OFSTEDs poster for parents is displayed on my noticeboard. 

 

I am undecided whether to use a childminder or a nursery. What is the benefit of you over a nursery?

Your child will benefit from having consistent care from one main care giver (me) where my ratios are low so the focus is on your child. I offer longer hours and flexibility than most nurseries and cost less. Your hourly rate will NEVER rise during your child's time with me giving you peace of mind. Fees are paid per hour your child attends rather than termly or annually. There is no registration fee. Your deposit comes off your FIRST months fees rather than being held until you leave. I am open all year round. We can discuss your child's individual needs and I can tailor my day around your child's needs as much as possible. 

 

What will my child learn in your care?

I work to the governments EYFS statutory framework which focuses on 7 areas of development including the 3 prime areas - Physical Development, Personal, Social and Emotional Development and Communication and Language and 4 specific areas -  Literacy, Mathematics, Expressive Art and Design and Understanding the World. 

 

Where will my child sleep?

We can discuss your preferences for where your child may sleep during the day. Depending on the age and requirements of your child I have 2 cots, sleep mats, moses basket or buggy. Clean, individual bedding will be provided. Your child will be placed in a quiet, peaceful part of the home but always within earshot and will be monitored closely at all times.

 

What if I wish to stop?

4 weeks written notice (ie via email) is required from you to terminate your contract. 

 

What if I want to take holidays?

You can take 4 weeks holiday per year. Fees are payable at half the normal rate. 4 weeks notice of any holidays is required.

 

Will you take holidays?

I may take up to 4 weeks holiday a year of which you will not be charged. I will give you a minimum of 4 weeks notice of any of my holidays.