Jennifer Tindall - Childminder

I ensure that all children have access to everything they need in order to learn and develop, this includes educational toys and puzzles, all of which I observe and assist with. This enables me to actively monitor their progress as well as notice any potential problems which could effect their learning. 

As I observe all children in my care, if I notice that one child was struggling with anything in particular, including speech, numeracy or literacy I would ensure that I spent extra time with them to try and aid them. If I was concerned with their development then I would advise the parent(s) to approach the relevant centres and would help them to find the correct ones. I would communicate with the parents to make sure that I follow any activities/care instructions they were given to assist them in their learning. 

As mentioned, my observations allow me to notice any abnormalities in a child's development. If a child was struggling with anything then I would make sure that they were not singled out and still joined in with the other children. For each child, I write a two-three year old progress report which is a written document sharing everything that I have noticed and the parents receive a copy of this. Alongside this, parents have the opportunity to discuss any concerns with me when they drop off/pick up their child and I make sure I am always available to contact over the phone so they have regular communication with me. 

I write a two-three year old progress report which is given to the parents and I follow the EYFS program to make sure that I can aid a child to the best of my ability. Any worries would be shared with the parent as soon as possible and together we could discuss further options and routes they may want to take to assist their child. I would not do anything without the parents approval and would ensure that I look at each childs needs individually so they can get the best out of my care. 

I make sure that any concerns are discussed with parents and I am familiar with all local service specialists so can advise the parents where to go. If they needed any particular alterations to my environment or my care, I would do this to the best of my ability. In any severe cases where I could not adapt in the way that they needed, I would help the parents find the relevant care in the local area to support their child. 

Once any issues were found I would discuss with the parent what their specialist has recommended and ensure I have activities to suit their learning. This could include but is not limited to toys, games, puzzles and books.

If I noticed any abnormal behaviours or sudden changes of behaviour I would try and find the cause of the issue. If I suspected anything, a discussion would be had with the parents to try and find out if there had been any big changes at home including divorce or deaths. If I felt that there was any direct harm, emotional or otherwise, to the child I would investigate further and would contact the appropriate local services. 

I have regular visits from my development worker who keeps me up to date with any changes in EYFS and Safeguarding Children. 

I usually have a week where the child spends a few hours a day in my care with the parent and we slowly cut down the hours spent with the parent so they do not experience any sudden changes and are comfortable in my environment. 

Slough Borough Council, local drop in centres and local services.