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Registered Childminder Donna Ball

74 Holmden Avenue WigstonLeicesterLE18 2EF

Phone number 0116 2810766

welcome family to Bright Bunnies. Please read my portfolio to get to know us

I will be happy to answer any questions or set up a 2 hour pre-visit on a week day prior to your child starting.

Introduction to my services Thank you for choosing me as your childminder I look forward to working with you and your family.

My aim as a childminderMy aim is to make children feel happy , safe, loved , valued and to have fun. All children’s work is here for parents to see and take home and each child is given a folder to store there work, the folders are made by the children for them to keep the things special to them.OFSTED require Childminder’s to have certain training these are introduction to childminding, first aid, food hygiene and child protection. These all need updating every 3 years.I regularly attend many training sessions .

The qualifications i have gained are :NVQ 3 in childcare and educationIntroduction to childminding practise Developing childminding practiseManaging children’s behaviour First aid Food hygieneChild protection / safeguarding children Birth to three mattersEarly years foundation stage framework training Equality and InclusionHealthy foods and special diets Menphys Disabled Children and young people trainingProgress from the start ( NEF training )I also attend many training workshops some of these are :Phonics Festivals Flying colours

I hold many social events for children and there families , birthday parties,big family Christmas party which is now in its 9th year ,trips to theme parks, seaside , bowling , mums nights out etc and i hope all families will join in ! i keep a photo album which parents can look at anytime . I have a comments book which parents and children have added things to to show what its really like here!

I try to have the same holidays each year. I take time off in February usually the week before half term, the week after Easter so I have good Friday then the following week off , a few days usually at the end of Nov for Xmas shopping and then take very little time off over Xmas.

Children have lots of free choice, group activities and one to one time.i have recently introduced a “time for me time” so each child gets quality one to one time from me doing something they really enjoy .

Children are provided with healthy snacks throughout the day

PraiseThere are many ways of praising a child some of the ways i use are :wow way to go, super, your special , outstanding, excellent, fantastic, i knew you could do it,, certificates, pictures up on the wall, well done, i’m really proud of you. I use others aswell depending on the child and the achievement . A child responds well to praise and if a child is struggling i will praise and encourage them .

Agreeing the care – what the childminder will expect of youThe childminder will need some information about you and your child. You will probably want to ask some general questions about the childminder’s family too. The childminder will expect this. An informal chat is often the best way to exchange information and to get to know each other.Your childminder should ask you to complete a contract to agree things like fees, hours and arrangements for holidays and sickness. This provides a safeguard for you and the childminder.Childminders negotiate their own terms and conditions but most will expect payment in advance and will charge a retainer fee for times when the contracted hours are not used.Childminders are required to keep simple records on the children in their care and will need your co-operation in this. It is your responsibility to ensure that the childminder has accurate, up-to-date information about how to contact you etc.Childminders are expected to treat all children and families with equal concern and to respect a child’s religious and cultural background. They will expect a similar respect from parents using their service.It is important that parents abide by the conditions agreed; bring and collect their child on time and make sure their child has everything they need. Any changes to normal routine or problems arising should be discussed as soon as possible. Regular communication and mutual respect is the key to a successful and happy arrangement.Parents must communicate with the childminder before sending a sick child, each childminder has there own policy regarding illness.

Donna’s Policies .

Health and safety

The safety of the children, at Brightbunnies Childminding is priority.To ensure the safety of the children , parents, volunteers, staff and myself, the following is adhered to at all times;Risk assessments •My risk assessment process includes - Checking for hazards and risks indoors and outside, and in our activities and procedures. A full risk assessment is done for new toys, new activities, sand, water , outings ,the home etc and are amended when a new child starts or whenever it is required to amend these are stored in a file and can be seen if requested . Risk assessments are done daily as part of a routine before children arrive and after children leave ( a tick chart involving checking toys, cleaning play areas, checking the garden, emptying bins etc) , Risk assessments of activities and outings for the day , Evaluations at the end of the day also help form risk assessments .Our assessment covers adults and children;deciding which areas need attention; and developing an action plan, which specifies the action required, this is recorded in the risk assessment records. Assessments regarding substances relating to COSHH (control of substances hazardous to health) include the safe handling,storage, use and first aid requirements. We maintain lists of health and safety issues that are checked Daily before session begins,weekly, termly and yearly this practice is reviewed regularly as circumstances or legislation dictates.•Children take part in doing regular risk assessment with me to identify dangers around the house they list objects and score it how dangerous they feel it is we then discuss this and do activities on safety in the home and outside the home, this is encouraging children to show me a broken toy so it can be repaired or thrown away .• As a registered childminder OFSTED set the requirements for the number of children I can childmind at any one time this is shown on my certificate and recent changes to the EYFS mean I asses my own variations based on a number of principles like the time children are here , the systems in place to make sure all children are kept safe and get adequate time etc . If I do need a variation - for example because a patent has changed their working hours - I will consult with all parents and risk asses each variation on its own merit. Safety in the home • All children are fully supervised and kept in sight at all times• I have an updated first aid certificate should any child get hurt whilst in my care. • An accident book is available at all times for the reporting of any accidents or incidents that may occur. If the child’s injury is minor the parents will be informed at collection time and asked to read and sign the accident book, if the injury is more serious parents will be contacted immediately • Safety checks on the premises, indoors and out are made before the day begins and throughout the day • Room temperature checks happen constantly throughout the day (Ideal temp is kept between 18.c-21.c)a thermometer is placed in the rooms we use. A fan is used to cool the air and the centralheating is used to warm the air which has a thermostat to get the room to the ideal temperature .•Only persons who have been checked for criminal records by an enhanced disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau and are registered with Ofsted as child carers have unsupervised access to the children, including helping them with toileting. visitors, Other adults in the setting , volunteers, assistants are not left alone with children on their own . We carry out risk assessment to ensure children are not made vulnerable within any part of our premises, nor by any activity.• All doors are securely locked, and keys removed all day but located close to doors but out of children’s reach. • I take precautions to prevent children’s fingers from being trapped in doors.• window blinds are not in rooms children use frequently. Where blinds are used in kitchen ,bedrooms etc they have child safety devices on the cords , as the cords can pose a risk of strangulation • Windows are locked the key is located next to them out of children’s reach , Children are never left alone if a window is open due to the heat and where ever possible I use fans to cool the air .• Children will only leave the premises with authorised adults, if unknown to me, identification is tobe shown along with agreed password• Systems are in place for the safe arrival and departure of children. The times of the children’s arrivals and departures are recorded.The arrival and departure times of adults, staff, volunteers and visitors are also recorded either in the register or the visitor’s book. My systems prevent unauthorised access to our premises.• My systems prevent children from leaving our premises unnoticed. Children are released toauthorised pickup names only, this information is available from the children’s own records which is updated as required.•Nappy sacks and all other carrier bags are kept out of sight and out of reach of children information regarding the dangers of Nappy sacks can be found on the website

http://www.cornwallandislesofscilly.nhs.uk/CornwallAndIslesOfScillyPCT/InformationForPatients/StayingHealthy/BabiesAndChildren/NappySacks.aspxyingHealthy/BabiesAndChildren/NappySacks.aspx • I have public liability insurance. The certificate is displayed within the setting.• All low level glass is safety glass• Whilst here children will be shown an awareness of safety issues to protect themselves ,like road safety, dangers of electricity and there own children’s rights .• Equipment is checked regularly, anything broken will either be mended or thrown away• The layout and space ratios allow adults and children to move safely between activities• Fires, sockets, wires and leads are adequately guarded• Cleaning materials and medicines are kept out of reach , in locked cupboards with manufacturers labels on them .• Children do not have unsupervised access to the kitchen, cooker or any cupboards storing hazardous material including matches • All Cupboards have a catch on them • Adults do not walk about with hot drinks or place them within reach of children• Evacuation drills are practised regularly, and when new children join the setting• Smoking is not permitted in the house, garden or around the children when outside the home , parents are asked to refrain from smoking around the children if they visit the setting or if they join us on an outing. • The first aid box is correctly stocked and available at all times, visual aids show where its located • Children who are sleeping are monitored regularly• All equipment offered to the children is developmentally appropriate, recognising thatequipment/materials used by older children may pose a safety risk for younger/less maturechildren•Floors are checked regularly spillages are cleaned up immediately.•Children take part in doing regular risk assessment with me to identify dangers around the house they list objects and score it how dangerous they feel it is we then discuss this and do activities on safety in the home• Safety gates are used where necessary and kept closed at all times• Cooking and energetic play are kept under constant and close supervision•If child or parents behaviour puts myself, or other children at risk the contract will be terminated without notice . Safety in the garden • The garden is secure• The garden is checked regularly through the day• Garden equipment and toys are checked regularly• Chickens are kept clean and generally children do not have access to the chickens as the gate is locked at all timesI will take positive steps to promote safety within the home and when we are outside the home (in the garden, on trips and walks etc)Safety outside of the home -• A full risk assessment is done for every outing wether it be school run or farm trip.• A first aid bag goes with us at all times outside of the home to school, playgroups, toddler group• when outdoors the children’s own medication (i.e Inhalers ) come with us at all times • A harness will be worn by all children under 5 years old and older children are told what I expect of them I.E to walk at the side of me,walk in pairs , hold the buggy or hold my hand at no times are they allowed to run off , sometimes we play a traffic light game and children are told when I say red light they must stop and they also learn on the walk to school they can walk 2 lamp posts and wait ,never go round a corner so they can’t see me etc . • We discuss and practise correct road crossing safely, the children are encouraged to say when they feel the road is clear and we choose a safe place to cross,children hold hands to cross and learn that they must never run across a road .•Consent forms for all local outdoor pursuits are signed during the registration process. Parents arealways asked to sign specific consent forms before major outings. •Parent/carers may be invited to attend outings as extra support for staff, but they will not be included in the adult/child ratios. • Outings will be appropriate for the age of children and their interests.safety in the car -I have a full driving license, which is available for you to see on request

http://www.cornwallandislesofscilly.nhs.uk/CornwallAndIslesOfScillyPCT/InformationForPatients/StayingHealthy/BabiesAndChildren/NappySacks.aspx

http://www.cornwallandislesofscilly.nhs.uk/CornwallAndIslesOfScillyPCT/InformationForPatients/StayingHealthy/BabiesAndChildren/NappySacks.aspx

I will ensure it complies with all legislation, MOT, Car Tax etc and is in roadworthy and road legal conditionI will ensure it is covered by Business Use, Car Insurance and the Certificate is available for you to seeI will avoid where possible taking your child to a petrol station, by filling up my car before or after my minded hoursI will ensure all car seats are correctly fitted, age and stage appropriate for the children using them and that they are correctly strapped into themI will ensure that the child safety locks are in use on my carI will always carry a mobile telephone with me in case of an emergency but will not answer it whilst driving. I will return calls on my returnI will always carry identification for me and the minded children in case of an emergencyI will always carry a First Aid kit in the car in case of an emergencyI will never leave a child unattended in a car.I will teach your child about the dangers of cars and roads, in an age appropriate way.I will advise you in advance if we are making any special trips or long trips in the car.If your child suffers from travel sickness please let me know immediately.If you have any concerns regarding this policy please do not hesitate to contact meAnother policy is in place to explain what happens in the event of a breakdown or accident .

Records.In accordance with the welfare requirements for child care settings, we keep records of -:Children ----- Adults authorised to collect children from setting, the names, addresses andtelephone numbers of emergency contacts in case of children’s illness or accident, the allergies,dietary requirements and illnesses of individual children the times of attendance of children, staff,volunteers and visitors; accidents, and medication administration records. Consent for outing, administration of medicines, emergency treatment.Adults ---- Names and addresses of, all staff on the premises, including temporary or volunteerstaff. Emergency contact numbers, and next of kin details. All records relating to staff employment within the setting, including application forms, references, results of any checks undertaken etcUpdated 12th may 2012

A Unique Child Positive Relationships

Enabling Environments

Learning and Development

1.3 Keeping safe

1.4 Health and Well-being

2.1 Respecting Each Other

2.2 Parents as Partners

2.4 Key person

3.3 The learning environment

Risk assessment policy

AimThe setting believes that the health and safety of children is of paramount importance. I make our

setting a safe and healthy place for children, parents, staff and volunteers by assessing and minimising the hazards and risks to enable the children to thrive in a healthy and safe environment. The risk

assessment process is a key element of ensuring all appropriate measures are identified to assist the achievement of this aim.

Procedures

We are required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work regulations to carry out risk assessments for all activities. Risk assessments are also required by other legislation, (COSHH,

Manual handling etc).All staff are aware of the five step risk assessment process.

· Identification of risk: Where is it and what is it?

· Who is at risk: Childcare staff, children, parents, volunteers, visitors etc?

· Assessment as to the level of risk as high, medium, low. This is both the risk of the likelihood of it happening, as well as the possible impact if it did.

· Control measures to reduce/eliminate risk: What will you need to do, or ensure others will do, in order to reduce that risk?

· Monitoring and review: How do you know if what you have said is working, or is thorough enough? If it is not working, it will need to be amended, or maybe there is a better solution.

Our risk assessment process includes children and adults:Checking for hazards and risks indoors and outside, and in our activities and procedures. deciding which areas need attention; and developing an action plan, which specifies the action required, this is recorded in the risk assessment records. Assessments regarding substances relating to COSHH (control of substances hazardous to health) include the safe handling, storage, use and first aid requirements.

We maintain lists of health and safety issues that are checked:

Daily before session begins, termly and yearly this practice is reviewed regularly as circumstances or legislation dictates.

Legal framework

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992

Further guidance

Five Steps to Risk Assessment (HSE 2006)EYFS key themes and commitments

A Unique Child

Positive Relationships



1.3 Keeping safe


3.4 The wider context

This policy was implemented 12th July 2012

Emergency procedures

Lost / missing Child Policy Losing a child from the setting should never happen. Preventative measures within the setting will include. · Door Handles above the average child’s height. · Doors and windows locked at all times · All staff are aware of children with the potential to ‘Wander’ ( we would appreciate new

parents warning us if their child does wander) · Regular checks are made in the garden before returning to the building to ensure that in

child is not ‘hiding’ · All visitors to the setting must sign in and wear identification. · Delivery people should carry formal identification. If the person needs access to the

building they would be supervised.

Should a child go missing there are procedures in place detailing actions to be undertaken and all staff are fully aware of these procedures. Should your child go missing during the day but is found after the staff have conducted a search you will be informed of the incident at the end of the day. Should your child go missing and remain missing you will be informed immediately, as well as the Police, Social Services Duty Assessment Team Conducting a proper search of the Building: The Childminder will do a full search of all areas The search would entail looking in places e.g. cupboards, under bean bags etc…..Other areas would be areas which the children do not have normal access to e.g. upstairs, sheds etc

If the child is found: Should the child be found hiding then they are spoken to in a calm manner and have it explained that what has happened is not acceptable. The parents of the child must be informed of the incident at the of the day and a note made in the incident book.

If the child remains missing: Should a child not be found in the search, then I will call the police. They have resources to conduct and a swift search of the area and speed is now important. Prepare a description of them. Then inform the parents. I would inform the parents/ carers that the child may be attempting to go home. I may suggest you walk to the setting by your usual route to see if the child is making their way home , if the police advise a different course of action you will be informed . I understand that as a parent you will be distressed and probably angry. I would inform you fully about what had happened.

The Police and Social Services Duty Assessment Team and Ofsted will be aware of the incident and will investigate.

In order to prevent the possibility of a child going missing from the setting I would appreciate parents/carers help in certain matters.

· Please do not hold doors open within the setting that could allow children to leave an area without my knowledge

· Please close all the doors and gates behind you. (including the front door even if you will only be a minute a child could run out un noticed behind you)

· When collecting your child please discourage their friends ‘tailing’ you out of the area they are in.

· Sign children in and out of the setting each day .

Lost / missing child outide of the setting

Everything will be done to ensure that your child never becomes lost on outings - including routine outings like school runs and toddler groups etc . I have prevention methods in place to stop a child becoming lost these include : · At all times I will make sure I know the location of your child. Do regular head counts and check ins · We avoid going to over crowded places and generally go to places i know are safe - a full risk assessment is done

for all new places and updated regularly or when a new child starts . · When out I will make sure that your child/ren are kept close to me, (if young they will be holding my hand at all

times, wearing a harness ). · As soon as possible I will teach your child/ren my address, · All children will wear a wrist band or shoe tag on outings with my mobile number on which i will have on me at all

times · head counts are done regularly on outings · Children will be taught what to do should they ever get lost. at larger places like theme parks we have visual points

to meet if the child does wonder off .

If after all this your child still becomes lost on an outing, the following procedure will be followed:-

1. I will first search the immediate area. shouting child’s name.2. I will ask a shop worker, an attendant at a play area etc if they can put an announcement out 3. get help from other people giving them a description of the child and clothes they were wearing . 4. I will then phone the police to inform them of the situation , giving as much detail as possible , follow their advise 5. Phone parents and inform them of the situation 6. I will stay in the area in which your child has been lost(unless told otherwise by the police) 7 Inform OFSTED 8 keep parents updated

9 . all other children will be supervised and reassured 10. a full investigation will be carried and all parents informed .

A Unique Child




1.3 Keeping safe



policy reviewed 20.9.12

Not collectedIf a child is not collected within half hour of their usual contracted collection time .I will try calling the parents contact

numbers . Then I will try the emergency contact numbers . During this time I will continue to safely look after the child. I will continue to try the parents contract numbers and emergency numbers , but after one hour with no contact from

the original agreed collection time I will tell the local authority duty social worker and inform OFSTED

It is always best to inform me if you are going to be late.

Child needing hospital treatment . If a child has an accident or reaction etc and needs to be taken to hospital i will do the following : 1. I will stay with the child at all times and use a mobile phone or portable phone. If necessary I would shout for help. 2. Do any first aid needed , recovery position, etc .3. Phone for an ambulance or if this is not needed I would take the child by car to the hospital .4. Phone the parents 5. Reassure the child and other children6. Phone all other children’s parents and ask them to collect there child.7.It might be necessary to leave other children with another child minder or parent, all parents are asked to give consent for this when they join and i explain who will look after children in an emergency 8.If a parent hasn’t arrived by the time the ambulance came I would travel with the child as long as the other children have gone, if they haven’t I will inform the parent of where the child was taken in the ambulance Ofsted would be informed as soon as possible .

Fire evacuation We practice regular fire drills and i use the smoke alarm as a signal to get out . In the event of a fire I would do the following :

1. Hear the smoke alarm and alert all children, whistle , clapping or any other means2. Get my hand bag which is located by the front door ( this has contact details and my phone in it at all times )3. Get out quickly but calmly , keeping near the floor if smelly or smoky, children would crawl at the side of me.4. Carry any children who were unable to walk 5. I would close doors behind me to try to stop the spreading of fire 6. If a door was hot I would not open it, I would block off the bottom of the doors with cloth, towels etc to prevent the

fire getting in, I would go to a window and shout for help and get them to call the fire brigade . 7. When we get out we will go to the end of the drive telephone the fire brigade8. telephone all parents 9. await further instruction from the emergency services

Emergency evacuation If a situation arises where we have to evacuate the house I will do the following:

1. Get every body out the house to a safe location *Place of Optimum Safety . 2. Call any relevant professions to deal with the problem 3. Call all parents to inform them of the situation if necessary I will ask that children are collected . 4. I will keep parents updated .* Place of Optimum Safety explained in next policy

Place of Optimum Safety

I will take children to a safe house ,I will use my judgement and information from relevant professionals to determine when and where its necessary to take children to my Place of Optimum Safety. The Address of Sandra poole who is my auntie is 95 holmden avenue Wigston , Leicester 0116 2882320 ,. In the event of my setting becoming unsafe due to fire/ flood/ damage /other emergency/unwanted intruder. I can not normally be contacted at this address. I recognize that advice from the emergency services may override this plan and in which case I may have to let children travel in a taxi/car/bus or other necessary means on this occasion to another area of safety without first obtaining express parental permission. I will make every effort to contact parents (or nominated contact) as soon as is reasonably practicable on the emergency contact number held by me and parents will be informed where to collect children from if necessary .

Emergencies when in the car

In the event of the car breaking down while we are out I will do the following :

I have full relay recovery on my car , and I always have a first aid box, juice, food, blankets ,mobile phone in the car in the event of a breakdown. 10. Stay calm reasure the children all the time. 11. Ring breakdown company.12. I will call parents to inform them of the situation .13. If recovery is needed I will inform the breakdown company of how many children are with me and they will send a

big enough truck for all of us, if necessary they will send another vehicle for me to travel with all the children. 14. Keep parents up to date.




1.3 Keeping safe 2.4 Key person 3.3 The learning environment


Illness - Infection control procedure • I will always promote the good health of children and take positive steps to prevent the spread of infection in order to do this afflictively I need all parents to work in partnership and adhere to the following policy and procedures, any parents found to be in breech of the policy may have written warnings and possibly there contract terminated if they continue to put others children’s health at risk. •If your child is ill , depending on the nature of the illness I may request that you keep him/her at home until they are fully recovered. likewise if i am ill i may not be able to provide care for children . The exclusion periods below and displayed in the setting are in place to protect all of the children in my care as well as their families, myself and my family. .Parents must not knowingly send a sick child , it may result in me having to observe these exclusion periods myself and therefore have to close my services accordingly.

There are certain occasions, when it may be necessary to ask a parent not to bring their child to my home for a short period of time. These reasons include• Children who are unwell should be kept at home. This includes symptoms such as stomach ache, head ache , child feeling generally under the weather and needs calpol , has a cold, cough, sore throat, had a wakeful night when doesn’t usually this can be a sign children are coming down with something. Young children’s health can deteriorate rapidly so a child who appears only mildly unwell but wants to come to the setting must remain at home to reduce the risk of infection to other children and adults. • If a child has a rash - all rashes must be checked by a G.P and it remains my decision as to wether I allow a child to attend with a rash. viral rashes have spread recently very rapidly amongst the children so children must remain at home until all spots have gone. • If the child has a temperature or has suffered with a temperature in the last 24 hours. A child needs to be fever free for a minimum of 24hrs before returning to my care, without the aid of a fever reducing substance e.g. calpol.• If a child has a highly infectious condition such as impetigo, chicken pox, tonsillitis or conjunctivitis• If the child has a notifiable disease, measels, mumps, rubella etc • If the child had sickness or diarrhoea within the last 48hours• If the child is on a course of antibiotics the parent must keep them at home the first 2 days of the course, in case of allergic reaction, to let the medication begin to work and make sure the child hasn’t had any side affects of the medicine.• If a family member has a contagious illness like sickness and diarrhoea , tonsillitis etc please communicate before bringing the child as it may be the parent or the child can still pass the bug onto the rest of the setting and it is my duty as a childminder to prevent infection spreading.•Please read the exclusion table at the bottom of the page to find most common childhood illnesses , in

you are in any doubt wether to send your child please call me before coming. If your child is ill and unable to come, could you please contact me as soon as possible, if possible by 7.30am so I can plan our day

procedure for caring for a Sick child I reserve the right to refuse admittance to any child I feel is not well enough to attend the setting or may pose a risk of infection to others.•If your child falls ill whilst in my care, I will contact you and ask you to collect them immediately.

•if a child develops a temperature they will be kept cool by removing the top clothing , sponging the forehead with cool water and are kept away from draughts - parents will be called to collect their child • in an extreme emergency the child will be taken to the nearest hospital and parents contacted

•I need written permission to administer any medication( including teething gels and powders and ca lpol I do not give non prescription medication ) I will also need the parent/guardian to sign every time I have given them a dose, to say that they agree.

•In the event of an emergency, the child will be taken to A&E and you will be contacted either before we leave, on the way or from the hospital, depending on the seriousness of the situation.

Procedure for children with Allergies · When parents start their child at the setting they are asked if their child has any known allergies ,

This is recorded on the registration forms and is documented in the setting as a list of Allergy sufferers for quick reference and also so all users of the setting are aware of other allergies so do not accidentally send something to the setting that could cause a reaction.

· If the child has an allergy a risk assessment is completed to detail the following 15. the allergen ( such as nuts, bees, eggs etc )16. The nature of the allergic reaction e.g anaphylactic shock, including rash, reddening of the skin,

swelling , breathing problems etc. 17. What to do in case of allergic reaction , any medication to use and how to use e.g Epi pen . 18. Control measures- such as how the child can be prevented from the contact of the allergen · This form should be kept in the child's file and is accessible to myself and my assistant. · I under go Epi - pen training every 3 years alongside my First aid training. · I do not use nuts or nut products in the setting and parents are advised not to bring nuts or nut

products in the setting . · Latex gloves are not used I use plastic gloves to prevent allergic reaction.

Oral Medication - including inhalers · Oral medication must be prescribed by a GP and have the instructions, dosage etc clearly labelled

on them. If possible in their original container · Parents are required to provide written instructions on how to administer such medication . This is

recorded in the child's file and on a medication form .· All risk assessment procedures need to be adhered too for the correct storage and administration

of the medication . refer to setting medication policy · Medication will always be carried with us on outings even to the school, park etc

Life saving medication & invasive treatments Adrenalin injections -(EPIPENS ) for anaphylactic shock reactions ( caused by Allergies) or invasive treatments such as rectal administration of Diazepam ( for epilepsy ) The setting must have · A letter from the child's GP / consultant stating the child's condition and what medication if any is

to be administered · Written consent from the parent / guardian allowing staff to administer medication · Proof of training in the administration of such medication by an approved First aid training

Organisation, Child's GP, District nurse etc · All life saving medication will be carried outside of the home no matter how short the outing will be.

Medication Policy While it is not my Policy to care for sick children who should remain at home until they are well enough to return to the setting , I will administer medication as part of maintaining their health and well being or when they are recovering from an illness . If a child has not had the medication before it is advised that the parent keep the child at home for the first 48 hours to ensure no adverse effect as well as to give time for the medication to to take effect . These procedures are written in line with currant guidance in "

managing medicines in schools and early years settings .

Administering medication procedures. · Parents may bring in children taking prescribed medication only if they are well enough to attend

the setting . · Only prescribed medication is administered , it must be in date , in the original container and must

be prescribed for the currant condition. · I will not administer over the counter medication including Capol , a child who needs medication to

be able to fulfil normal activities and routines should be kept at home.· I will only follow instructions given on the Label if a parent tells me a different dosage I must have

confirmation from the GP prior to the child being given the medication. · Medication will be stored appropriately in their original containers and inaccessible to the children ,

parents are asked to hand them over each day rather than leave them in child's bag as this could be a potential risk if a child got the bag.

· Parents give prior written consent to administer medication , a medication form must be filled in and signed by myself and the parent.

· If necessary the medication will be taken with us on outings in a bag-alongside the first aid bag. Updated July 12th 2012

A Unique Child







2.4 Key person

3.2 supporting every child

Hygiene High standards of hygiene will be shown at all times.FoodI am aware of the importance of food hygiene and to ensure this I will;• Always wash hands under hot running water using soap before handling food• Wash fruit and Vegetables thoroughly before using them• Never cough or sneeze over food• Prepare cooked and raw food in separate areas• Keep food either refrigerated or piping hot• China/crockery that is chipped will not be used• Food that needs heating will be heated up prior to serving and not left standing• No food or drink will be re-heated• Use different cloths for kitchen and toilet areas• All meals and snacks will be nutritious and due care and attention will be given to children’sdietary requirements, likes and dislikes, so that their individual needs are met• When cooking is done as an activity, I will provide wholesome and healthy food to encouragethe child’s understanding of a healthy diet• I will ensure all food preparation is to a high standard and use food hygiene training to make sure I meet the requirementsHygiene• Hands are washed before eating, after using the toilet, changing nappies , being in garden . • Babywipes are used to clean dirty faces and disposed of immediately• Paper towels are used to dry hands and faces and disposed of immediately• children are encouraged to cover their mouths when coughing and noses when sneezing, andthen wash their hands• Toothbrushes will not be shared• Children with pierced ears will never share earrings

• Children use kitchen roll in the bathroom to dry their hands Hygiene rules relating to bodily fluids followed with particular care as follows;Cleaning and Clearing• Any spills of blood, excrement and vomit are wiped up immediately and flushed down the toilet,with the use of disposable gloves• Floors and other affected areas are disinfected thoroughly• Any fabrics contaminated with bodily fluids are washed thoroughly with hot water• Disposable gloves are used when changing nappies and hands are washed before and after Children will be shown an awareness of personal hygiene to help them become independent. This is shown through washing hands before eating, after using the toilet and after being near the animals .march 19th 2012

A Unique Child




1.3 Keeping safe

1.4 Health and well - being

2.1 Respecting Each Other 3.3 The learning

environment

Admissions policy It is our intention to make our setting accessible to children and families from all sections of the local community through open, fair and clearly communicated procedures. in order to accomplish this we will: -· ensure that the existence of our setting is widely advertised in places accessible to all sections of the community. · We ensure that information about our setting is accessible, in written and spoken form and, where appropriate, in

more than one language. We will provide translated written materials where language needs of families suggest this is required.

· keep a place vacant, if this is financially viable, in order to accommodate emergency admissions.· describe the setting and its practices in terms that make it clear that we welcome fathers, others, any other

relation or carer.· have regard of any child’s or their families need arising from their gender, special educational needs, disabilities,

social background, religion, and ethnicity or from English being a newly acquired additional language.· monitor the gender and ethnic background of children joining the group to ensure that no accidental discrimination

is taking place.· make our equality of opportunities policy widely known. · consult with families about the opening times of the setting to ensure that we accommodate a child’s and their

families needs. · Opening early mornings and evening if appropriate Be flexible about attendance patterns to accommodate the

needs of individual children and their families, providing these do not disrupt the pattern of continuity in the setting that provides stability for all the children.

· sign children in on arrival and sign them out on collection. All parents must sign the register every day to say they agree these hours were used and will agree to pay for them. If i meet at the school or another venue i will arrange a time suitable for both myself and parent to come and sign the register.

· Children will only be allowed to leave with a person i have met or have been informed about on the child’s record form. A child will only be allowed to leave with a responsible adult over 18 years of age.

· always allow time for the parents to talk to me about the child’s day and if a longer time is needed i will make arrangements with the parents to come at a time suitable for both myself and the parent.

· Late collections will be charged for at my discretion ( see full list of penalties )revised may 12th 2012

A Unique Child




1.2 Inclusive Practise

2.1 Respecting Each other

3.1 Observation, Assessment and planning


Dropping off and Collection Policy

Dropping Off

Please let us know in advance if you intend to arrive at a different time from the contracted one. If you arrive unexpectedly early we may not be ready to care for your child. If you are late, we may have to take children to school, nursery or pre-school and will not be able to wait for you. Please discuss with us if you need to change your contracted hours.

Collection

We will only release your child from our care to adults who have permission to collect them. We will therefore need you to provide us with a list of people authorised to collect. It would be helpful, if they are not known to us, to include a description or a photograph for us to keep on file.

In the event of an emergency, we can operate a password system where you can send someone not authorised to collect your child but who is able to give the password. Please discuss with us if you would like to use this system.

It is important that you arrive at the contracted time to collect your child. Even very young children learn our routine and know when their parents are due. They can become distressed if you are late. We know that sometimes delays are unavoidable, especially if you are relying on public transport. If you are going to be delayed, for whatever reason, please contact us and let us know when you expect to arrive. We will normally be able to accommodate the additional care.However if we are unable, we will contact other adults from your list of authorised people and arrange for them to collect your child. We will reassure your child that you are on the way and if necessary organise additional activities and a meal.

In line with our Uncollected Children Policy, if we have not heard from you and you are very late, we will try and make contact with you. We will also attempt to contact the emergency numbers provided. If we are unable to make contact with anyone we will inform Social Services and follow their advice.

I reserve the right to make an additional charge for late collection.

A Unique Child




1.3 Keeping safe

The Handing Over of ResponsibilityResearch has shown that more accidents/incidents occur when both the Childminder and parents are present. This is for a variety of reasons:· The child may feel that with both adults talking they are being ignored, therefore they misbehave to gain attention.· The child senses that neither adult feels comfortable taking responsibility and tests boundaries further than they would normally.· No one is supervising the child sufficiently and accidents occur.I feel it is therefore best that we discuss this situation before the matter arises and an accident occurs.I think the best way to prevent children becoming bored or being unsupervised while we hand over is best if I have children and their belongings ready at collection time and we hand over at the door all information about the child’s day will be put in the diary and if a parent wishes to chat we can still do this either in the lounge or over the phone at a convenient time in the evening . Parents are reminded to follow the childminders house rules at all times .It is important that a decision is reached and the child is helped to understand who is responsible for them and when this responsibility changes to another adult.If the parent is to take responsibility as soon as they arrive, they will be expected to adhere to my Childminding House Rules whilst in my home.Alternatively I am prepared to take responsibility of the child until s/he leaves my premises.If you have any concerns over this issue please do discuss them with me.August 2011

A Unique Child




1.3 Keeping safe


Equality of Opportunity and Diversity Policy

We actively promote equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practices for all children, and we treat all children equally.

We value and respect the different racial origins, religions, cultures and languages in a multi-ethnic society so that each child is valued as an individual without racial or gender stereotyping. We will also not discriminate against children on the grounds of age, race, religion, gender, culture, disability or special educational needs, social background or composition of the family.

We provide equal chances for each child to learn and develop to their full potential, taking into account each child’s age and stage of development, gender, ethnicity, home language, and ability. Sometimes this means adapting an activity to the child’s ability and stage of development, providing additional resources or giving one child more attention and support than others during a particular activity or routine.

We provide, and make sure that all children have access to, a range of books, puzzles and other toys which provide positive images and examples of the diversity of life in our society. All children in our care are given the opportunity to play with all the toys (subject to health and safety with children under 3 years of age). No toys are just for girls or just for boys, and we try to ensure the toys reflect positive images of children and people from different cultures and with different abilities. We have toys and resources that challenge stereotypical ideas on what careers are open to men and women.

We encourage the children in our care to learn more about their own culture and to find out about the culture and religions of other children. We do in this in a fun way through sharing books, colouring sheets, cooking and eating food from around the world and celebrating special festivals. We provide resources such as woks and chopsticks, dressing up clothes and multicultural skin tone crayons and pencils.

We challenge racist and discriminatory remarks, attitudes and behaviour from the children in our care and other adults. We will always help children to feel good about themselves and others by celebrating the differences which make us all unique. We feel that it is important for a child’s self-esteem and confidence to have a positive image of the family and social group to which they belong. We encourage the children to develop a healthy respect of each other’s differences and to value everyone as an individual.

We encourage Parents to share with us any festivals, special occasions or artefacts, which may enhance children’s learning and understanding.

For families who speak additional languages to English we develop means to ensure their full inclusion.

we encourage mothers, fathers, grandparents and other carers to take part in the life of the setting and actively contribute to their child's learning and enjoyment .

We encourage children and their families to contribute stories of their everyday life to the setting , verbally, in the diaries, bringing in photos and sharing stories on the facebook group.

We offer flexible payment options for families with differing means and offer information regarding sources of financial support, i.e tax credits .

Children have the right to feel valued and be free from discrimination. I will treat all children and families equally with respect and as invidious regardless of culture ,race , ethnic origin, religion , gender, age, social back grounds or learning difficulties or special needs.I am committed to equality i help children to learn about it through their play.I ensure all children have access to the full range of activities and share information with family members/ carers about their cultures specific needs.I will endeavour to treat all children in my care with equal concern. This will be achieved by:-Valuing each child’s individuality.Helping children to feel good about themselves and others, for example by appropriate praise.Using appropriate language. Finding out about family customs and beliefs, dietary requirements, dress code, hair and skin care, help required with toilet and washing. Listening to and valuing parent’s experiences and contributions.Providing play materials which reflect diversity, such as books, dolls, pretend food and puzzles which show positive images of boys and girls,men and women from a variety of cultural backgrounds and with varying needs.Providing activities to help children appreciate and value each others similarities and differences.Challenging racist and discriminatory remarks, attitudes and behaviour from children or adults.I plan and provide activities and play opportunities to develop children’s emotional, physical, social and intellectual capabilities. All children are involved in planning activities on a daily basis and i get to know what they like and do not like , no child will be pushed into doing something they don’t want to do but i always encourage them to try and have a go first and see if they like it. If a parent knows their child defiantly will not join in with something because of a fear or any other reason they are advised to tell me so as not to distress the child.I work using EYFS framework , planning and organising our day to cover all areas of development and learning. All children are involved with the plans to get a broad range of experiences, i set individual challenges and targets with realistic dates to reach them by. Children learn by what they see and by asking questions I will my very best give the children lots of opportunities to see new things and to ask questions.

A Unique Child




1.1 child Development

1.2 Inclusive Practice


2.2 Parents as partners

2.3 supporting learning

2.4 Key person



4.1 Play and Exploration

4.4 Areas of Learning and development

Extra hoursAs a childminder i try to be as flexible as i can, i will try to cover the hours a parent needs if they give me enough notice to make arrangements. Parents are advised to give 48 hours notice if they wish to have extra hours this gives me time to get meals, prepare activities and to make sure i can do those hours. If a parent requests extra hours then changes their mind the hours still need to be paid for. As a childminder i am registered for 5 children only 2 of these may be under 5 at any time so i cannot guarantee extra hours please discuss it before agreeing to work extra, go somewhere as i might not have room.

How I support children’s learningFor all children up to age of 5 I use the Early Years Foundation Stage( EYFS )framework to support children’s learning and development. The Early Years Foundation StageWhat is it? Why do we use it?The years from pre-birth to five are known as the Foundation Years. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the guidance for anyone providing care and education for children in the Foundation Years. This includes nurseries, pre-schools, childminders and reception classes in schools. These are known as settings. Staff who work with these children are referred to as practitioners.

The EYFS has two parts:

· The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage. This sets out the legal requirements which settings have to follow in order to support their learning and development, to assess the children’s development and to ensure they are well cared for.

· Development Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage. This contains guidance materials for practitioners on the characteristics of learning and the areas of learning and development which should be offered to children in the foundation years.

The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage

The Learning and Development Requirements outline seven areas of learning and development. Three areas are particularly crucial for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive. These are called the prime areas; these are supported by four further areas called the specific areas. They are crucial in building children’s ability to learn, form relationships and thrive The Prime areas are;

Personal, social and emotional development

Helping children to develop a positive sense of themselves, and others; to form positive relationships and develop respect for others; to develop social skills and learn how to manage their feelings; to understand appropriate behavior in groups; and to have confidence in their own abilities.

Self-confidence and self-awareness: Children are confident to try new activities. They are confident to speak in a familiar group, will talk about their ideas, and will choose the resources they need for their chosen activities. They say when they do or don’t need help.

Managing feelings and behavior: Children talk about how they and others show feelings, talk about their own and others’ behavior, and its consequences, and know that some behavior is unacceptable. They work as part of a group, and understand and follow the rules. They adjust their behavior to different situations; take changes of routine in their stride.

Making relationships: Children play co-operatively, taking turns with others. They take account of one another’s ideas about how to organise their activity. They show sensitivity to others’ needs and feelings, and form positive relationships with adults and other children.

Communication and language

Giving children opportunities to experience a rich language environment; to develop their confidence and skills in expressing themselves; and to speak and listen in a range of situations.

Listening and attention: Children listen attentively in a range of situations. They listen to stories, accurately anticipating

key events and respond to what they hear with relevant comments, questions or actions. They give their attention to what others say and respond appropriately, while engaged in another activity.

Understanding: Children follow instructions involving several ideas or actions. They answer ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions about their experiences and in response to stories or events.

Speaking: Children express themselves effectively, showing awareness of listeners’ needs. They use past, present and future forms accurately when talking about events that have happened or are to happen in the future. They develop their own narratives and explanations by connecting ideas or events.

Physical development

Providing opportunities for young children to be active and interactive; and to develop their co-ordination, control, and movement. Children must also be helped to understand the importance of physical activity, and to make healthy choices in relation to food.

Moving and handling: Children show good control and co-ordination in large and small movements. They move confidently in a range of ways, safely negotiating space. They handle equipment and tools effectively, including pencils for writing.

Health and self-care: children know the importance for good health of physical exercise, and a healthy diet, and talk about ways to keep healthy and safe. They manage their own basic hygiene and personal needs successfully, including dressing and going to the toilet independently.

The Specific areas are;

Literacy

Encouraging children to link sounds and letters and to begin to read and write. Children must be given access to a wide range of reading materials (books, poems, and other written materials) to ignite their interest.

Reading: Children read and understand simple sentences. They use phonic knowledge to decode regular words and read them aloud accurately. They also read some common irregular words. They demonstrate understanding when talking with others about what they have read.

Writing: Children use their phonic knowledge to write words in ways which match their spoken sounds. They also write some irregular common words. They write simple sentences which can be read by themselves and others. Some words are spelt correctly and others are phonetically plausible.

Mathematics

Providing children with opportunities to develop and improve their skills in counting, understanding and using numbers, calculating simple addition and subtraction problems; and to describe shapes, spaces, and measures.

Numbers: Children count reliably with numbers from 1 to 20, place them in order and say which number is one more or one less than a given number. Using quantities and objects, they add and subtract two single-digit numbers and count on or back to find the answer. They solve problems, including doubling, halving and sharing.

Shape, space and measures: Children use everyday language to talk about size, weight, capacity, position, distance, time and money to compare quantities and objects and to solve problems. They recognise, create and describe patterns. They explore characteristics of everyday objects and shapes and use mathematical language to describe them.

Understanding the world

Guiding children to make sense of their physical world and their community through opportunities to explore, observe and find out about people, places, technology and the environment.

People and communities: Children talk about past and present events in their own lives and in the lives of family members. They know that other children don’t always enjoy the same things, and are sensitive to this. They know about

similarities and differences between themselves and others, and among families, communities and traditions.

The world: Children know about similarities and differences in relation to places, objects, materials and living things. They talk about the features of their own immediate environment and how environments might vary from one another. They make observations of animals and plants and explain why some things occur, and talk about changes.

Technology: children recognise that a range of technology is used in places such as homes and schools. They select and use technology for particular purposes.

Expressive Arts and Design Enabling children to explore and play with a wide range of media and materials, as well as providing opportunities and encouragement for sharing their thoughts, ideas and feelings through a variety of activities in art, music, movement, dance, role-play, and design and technology.

Exploring and using media and materials: children sing songs, make music and dance, and experiment with ways of changing them. They safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function.

Being imaginative: Children use what they have learnt about media and materials, in original ways, thinking about uses and purposes. They represent their own ideas, thoughts and feelings through design and technology, art, music, dance, role-play and stories.

The seven areas of learning help the practitioner to plan the learning environment alongside experiences and activities, which provide a framework for children’s learning. However this does not mean the child’s learning is compartmentalized. One exciting activity will produce opportunities for learning to take place across a number of areas of learning. Well-planned, purposeful activities will successfully engage children in learning opportunities.

The learning and development requirements also describe three characteristics of effective teaching and learning:· playing and exploring - children investigate and experience things, and ‘have a go’; · active learning - children concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties, and enjoy achievements;· creating and thinking critically - children have and develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and

develop strategies for doing things.

Assessment plays an important part in helping parents, carers and practitioners to recognise children’s progress, understand their needs, and to plan activities and support. Practitioners should observe children to understand their level of achievement, interests and learning styles, and to then shape learning experiences for each child reflecting those observations.

Practitioners must carry out a progress review when the child is between 24 and 36 months old. They must provide parents and/or carers with a short written summary of their child’s development in the prime areas, and it must identify the child’s strengths, and any areas where the child’s progress is less than expected. If there are significant emerging concerns, or an identified special educational need or disability, practitioners should develop a targeted plan to support the child’s future learning and development involving other professionals.

The Progress review should be carried out in time to inform the Healthy Child Programme health and development review at age two which is carried out by health visitors. This should help ensure that health visitors can identify children’s needs accurately and fully at the health review.

The Early Years Foundation Stage Profile is completed during the child’s reception year in school and provides a further assessment of the child’s development. The Profile is assessed against the Early Learning Goals, which follow the seven areas of learning as described above.

The safeguarding and welfare requirements set out the steps that practitioners must take to create a setting that is welcoming, safe and stimulating, and where children are able to enjoy learning and grow in confidence. The requirements explain what early years providers must do to: safeguard children; ensure the suitability of adults who have contact with children; promote good health; manage behaviour; and maintain records, policies and procedures.

Development Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage

This part of the EYFS is designed to help practitioners to support children’s learning and development through observing, assessing and planning It sets out 4 themes and the principles that inform them. The Unique Child: very child is a unique child who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.

It is important to understand and observe each child’s development and learning, assess progress, plan for next steps; to support babies and children to develop a positive sense of their own identity and culture; to identify any need for additional support; to keep children safe and to value and respect all children and families equally

Positive relationships: Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.Relationships need to be warm and loving, and foster a sense of belonging; sensitive and responsive to the child’s needs, feelings and interests; supportive of the child’s own efforts and independence; consistent in setting clear boundaries; stimulating; built on key person relationships in early years settings

Enabling Environments: Children learn and develop well in an enabling environment, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs and where there is a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and carers.An enabling environment values all people and values learning. It offers stimulating resources relevant to all the children’s cultures and communities; rich learning opportunities through play and playful teaching; support for children to take risks and explore

Learning and development: Children develop and learn in different ways.Practitioners teach children by ensuring challenging, playful opportunities across the prime and specific areas of learning and development. They also foster the characteristics of effective early learning (Playing and exploring; Active learning; Creating and thinking critically)

Development Matters ChartsThe guidance also provides detailed charts which show milestones to observe in the children’s learning and development, and what adults can do to provide both the relationship and the environment which will support their learning http://www.education.gov.uk/childrenandyoungpeople/earlylearningandchildcare/delivery/education/a0068102/early-years-foundation-stage-eyfs Each child has there own planning file, this is individual to each child and both parents and myself can see where a child is at developmentally . I do weekly planned observations on all the children and do other observations when i notice a child is doing something previously they could not i.e spontaneously putting their own shoe on. Parents are also encouraged to provide information for the learning journey by using telling me, write in the daily diary , stories from home sheets, child’s week forms and child interests forms. I use the observations to further an activity to help the child achieve there full potential in that area. Every time I plan something for the child I write what i would expect them to gain from the activity and then i evaluate it saying how i can further there leaning next time. Some of the things I would use is lego which would cover colours, counting etc it is all things we do with the children naturally but its making a note of it. From September 2008 all schools and early years providers in ofsted registered settings must ensure that their provision meets the EYFS requirements There are many aspects and dimensions to the EYFS framework .The EYFS has been revised in september 2012

I will provide a range of activities and experiences throughout the childminding day which will enable children to develop and learn. Some of the activities are adult led planned and others often happen spontaneously , arising from situations which crop up as the day unfolds and some are child led activities . Play and work are not separate activities at this young age and as a childminder I do have to include special times in the daily routine when a child can take part in planned activities and observations ,this is to enable myself and the childs parents to see how well the child is progressing. learning should be fun and children should be able to make choices so I encourage this in my setting. Children should be given a lot of praise and encouragement for there achievements so they become more self confident and able to try things out themselves. If you require further information I have lots of information i can go through with parentsOctober 2009revised may 2012

A Unique Child




1.1 Child Development

1.2 Inclusive practice



2.3 Supporting Learning

3.1 Observation, Assessment and Planning



4.4 Areas of Leaning and Development

changes to the contractIf a parent wishes to change the hours on a contract i will need it in writing with at least 2 weeks notice before the arrangement is due to start. I review contracts yearly and ask that all parents respond to my requests of signatures etc in the shortest time .If i need to make amendments to a contract because of a fee increase or new terms and conditions i will give you 4 weeks notice or more, fees are likely to be increased in January with the increase in home fuels and car fuel and car tax and insurance fees rising i have to increase my fees to cover these costs .

Nappy changing /Toilet training trainingTo prevent the spread of infection I have a separate nappy changing area this also means i respect each child’s privacy and dignity . A child will not be changed in front of another child or adult, All nappies will be changed by myself , it will never be done by another adult, visitor, assistant etc. Changing areas are cleaned after every use. Parents are advised to use this area if changing nappies at my house .Children’s nappys are changed frequently as part of a normal daily routine and whenever a child has wet or soiled their nappy . I wear Disposable gloves and dispose of nappies immediately . Parent provide nappies and wipes and I will tell them with at least 2 days notice if any more nappies are needed . I provide gloves and Nappy bagsNappy bags pose a suffocation risk to children so these are always stored appropriately away from children. when a parent feels there child is ready to move out of nappies i would appreciate being told before sending your child with pull ups or pants this is so i am prepared and can advise parents on how many changes of clothes to bring. If i feel a child is ready i would discuss with parents before taking further action.July 12th 2012

A Unique Child




1.1 Child Development

1.2 Inclusive practice


2.3 Supporting Learning 3.2 Supporting

Every Child

Alcohol, Drugs and Smoking Policy

As a registered childminder I will have sole responsibility for your child whilst they are in my care. It is vital that I am alert to any dangers and able to protect your child. In order to do this effectively I must not be under the influence of alcohol or any form of drugs (including some prescription medication). If we are prescribed medication, other than routine medication, we will inform Ofsted who will make a decision as to whether we can continue to care for the children whilst taking the medication. We will not drink any alcohol during minded hours or immediately before. There is no alcohol stored in the house .

Parents

If you have been drinking, perhaps a work leaving do, Christmas party or whilst entertaining clients, we would prefer it if you would arrange for another responsible adult to collect your child(ren), especially if you plan to drive home. Alternatively you may call us and we can delay the collection time, if possible.Please note if I suspect drug or alcohol abuse I may have to refer to social services.

Children

Drugs and alcohol are now more readily available to younger children. If I have any concerns that your child may be drinking alcohol, taking drugs or smoking I will discuss the matter with you immediately. We will then work with you to support your child. However, we reserve the right to terminate our contract with immediate effect if we have any concerns that your child’s behaviour due to drugs/alcohol may be putting other children in our care at risk.

Smoking

In accordance with the National Standards produced by the Department for Education and Skills we have a no smoking policy in our home. Visitors to the setting are requested they do not smoke in the house or garden and must dispose of cigarettes appropriately and not leave ends by the door or where children play. Parents , student or assistant will not smoke around children when out of the setting on a walk, day trip etc.

NO ONE IS PERMITTED TO SMOKE IN OUR HOME.

We will not take the children into smoky environments and will avoid places that permit smoking wherever possible.June 10th 2012

A Unique Child




1.3 Keeping safe

1.4 Health and well-Being

2.1 Respecting Each Other 3.2 Supporting

Every Child

Allegations of Abuse Against a ChildminderAs registered childminders, we are more vulnerable to allegations of abuse being made against our family or us as individuals. We will take precautions to prevent this from happening and to protect ourselves by:

· Ensuring all household members over 16 are CRB cleared.· Ensuring all visitors to the house sign the visitors book and do not haveunsupervised access to the children under any circumstances.· Ensuring, where possible, that no workmen are in the house duringminded hours, unless it is to repair an emergency service or for Health and Safety Reasons.· Document every accident and incident that occurs whilst in our care,informing parents and requesting them to sign our records.· Noting any marks on the children when they arrive and asking parents to inform us of any accidents that have

occurred whilst outside our care.· Ensuring the children are supervised at all times.· Keeping accurate records on each child and writing a daily diary.

However, allegations are sometimes made, and this unfortunate situation cannot be avoided. We will then follow the procedure detailed below, in order to gain support and professional advice:

We will write a detailed record of all related incidents, including what was said, by whom, with times and dates. We will ask any witnesses to give a written statement detailing the incident and giving their contact details in case of follow up by the authorities.Useful Numbers:Ofsted:030O 123 1231

Behaviour Management PolicyStatement of intent.We believe that children flourish best when they know how they are expected to behaveand should be free to play and learn without fear of being hurt or unfairly restricted by anyone

else. Children flourish best when their personal, social and emotional needs are met and wherethere are clear and developmentally appropriate expectations for their behaviour.Aim.We aim to provide an environment in which there is acceptable behaviour and wherechildren learn to respect themselves, other people and their environment . Children need to learnto consider the views and feelings, needs and rights, of others and the impact that theirbehaviour has on people, places and objects. This is a developmental task that requires support,encouragement, teaching and setting the correct example.Behaviour management procedure.`6`&The childminder has overall responsibility for our programme for supporting personal, social andemotional development, including issues concerning behaviour. She will keep up-to-date withlegislation, research and thinking on promoting positive behaviour and on handling children’sbehaviour where they may require additional support. She will access relevant sources ofexpertise on promoting positive behaviour. She also ensures that all staff have relevant in housetraining on promoting positive behaviour. We keep a record of staff attendance at thistraining.`6During registration process parents will be asked to provide details of any possible behaviourissues that have arisen in the past, these will be recorded in the child’s “ all about me book”and given to the child’s key worker who will monitor and observe the child to see if furtheraction is required or if they can help the child to deal with their feeling and emotions in amore constructive way.b6We require all staff, and volunteers to provide a positive model of behaviour by treatingchildren, parents and one another with friendliness, care and courtesy. We require all staff,and volunteers to use positive strategies for handling any conflict by helping children find solutions in ways, which are appropriate for the children’s ages and stages of development - for example distraction, praise and reward.h6We expect all members of the setting - children, parents, staff, and volunteers - to keep to the rules, requiring these to be applied consistently. We praise and endorse desirable behaviour such as kindness and willingness to share. We avoid creating situations in which children receive adult attention only in return for undesirable behaviour.l6We recognise that codes for interacting with other people vary between cultures and require staff to be aware of - and respect - those used by members of the setting. When children behave in unacceptable ways, we help them to see what was wrong and how to cope more appropriately.p6We never send children out of the room by themselves. We never use physical punishment, such as smacking or shaking; Children are never threatened with these. We do not use techniques intended to single out and humiliate individual children. We

only use physical restraint, such as holding, to prevent physical injury to children or adults and/or serious damage to property. Details of such an event (what happened, what action was taken and by whom, and the names of witnesses) are recorded in child’s confidential file. A parent is informed on the same day and signs to indicate that he/she has been informed.t6In cases of serious misbehaviour, such as racial or other abuse, we make clearimmediately the unacceptability of the behaviour and attitudes, by means of explanations rather than personal blame. We do not shout or raise our voices in a threatening way to respond to children’s behaviour.x6We handle children’s unacceptable behaviour in ways which are appropriate to their ages and stages of development - for example by distraction, discussion or by withdrawing the child from the situation.

z6We ensure that there are enough popular toys and resources and sufficient activities available so that children are meaningfully occupied without the need for unnecessary conflict over sharing and waiting for turns. We acknowledge considerate behaviour such as kindness and willingness to share.6We support each child in developing self-esteem, confidence and feelings of competence. We support each child in developing a sense of belonging in our group, so that they feel valued and welcome.6We work in partnership with children’s parents. Parents are regularly informed about their children’s behaviour. We work with parents to address recurring unacceptablebehaviour, usRough and tumble play and fantasy aggressionYoung children often engage in play that has aggressive themes – such as superhero and weaponplay; some children appear pre-occupied with these themes, but their behaviour is not necessarily a precursor to hurtful behaviour or bullying, although it may be inconsiderate at times and may need addressing using strategies as above.6We recognise that teasing and rough and tumble play are normal for young children and acceptable within limits. We regard these kinds of play as pro-social and not as problematic or aggressive.6We will develop strategies to contain play that are agreed with the children, and understood by them, with acceptable behavioural boundaries to ensure children are not hurt.6We recognise that fantasy play also contains many violently dramatic strategies, blowing up, shooting etc., and that themes often refer to ‘goodies and baddies’ and as such offer opportunities for us to explore concepts of right and wrong.6We are able to tune in to the content of the play, perhaps to suggest alternative strategies for heroes and heroines, making the most of ‘teachable moments’ to encourage empathy and lateral thinking to explore alternative scenarios and strategies for conflict resolution. Hurtful behaviour6We take hurtful behaviour very seriously. Most children under the age of five will at some stage hurt or say something hurtful to another child, especially if their emotions are high at the time, but it is not helpful to label this behaviour as ‘bullying’. For children under five,hurtful behaviour is momentary, spontaneous and often without cognisance of the feelings of the person whom they have hurt.6We recognise that young children behave in hurtful ways towards others because they havenot yet developed the means to manage intense feelings that sometimes overwhelm them.

6We will help them manage these feelings as they have neither the biological means nor the cognitive means to do this for themselves.6We understand that self-management of intense emotions, especially of anger, happens when the brain has developed neurological systems to manage the physiological processes that take place when triggers activate responses of anger or fear.6Therefore we help this process by offering support, calming the child who is angry as well as the one who has been hurt by the behaviour. By helping the child to return to a normal state, we are helping the brain to develop the physiological response system that will help the child be able to manage his or her own feelings.6We do not engage in punitive responses to a young child’s rage as that will have the opposite effect.6Our way of responding to pre-verbal children is to calm them through holding and cuddling.Verbal children will also respond to cuddling to calm them down, but we offer them an explanation and discuss the incident with them to their level of understanding.6We recognise that young children require help in understanding the range of feelings they experience. We help children recognise their feelings by naming them and helping children to express them, making a connection verbally between the event and the feeling. “Adam took your car, didn’t he, and you were enjoying playing with it. You didn’t like it when he took it, did you? Did it make you feel angry? Is that why you hit him?” Older children will be able to verbalise their feelings better, talking through themselves the feelings that motivated the behaviour.6We help young children learn to empathise with others, understanding that they have feelings too and that their actions impact on others’ feelings. “When you hit Adam, it hurt him and he didn’t like that and it made him cry.”6We help young children develop pro-social behaviour, such as resolving conflict over who has he toy. “I can see you are feeling better now and Adam isn’t crying any more. Let’s see if we can be friends and find another car, so you can both play with one.”6We are aware that the same problem may happen over and over before skills such as sharing and turn-taking develop. In order for both the biological maturation and cognitive development to take place, children will need repeated experiences with problem solving, supported by patient adults and clear boundaries.6We support social skills through modelling behaviour, through activities, drama and stories.We build self-esteem and confidence in children, recognising their emotional needs through close and committed relationships with them.6We help a child to understand the effect that their hurtful behaviour has had on another child; we do not force children to say sorry, but encourage this where it is clear that they are genuinely sorry and wish to show this to the person they have hurt.6When hurtful behaviour becomes problematic, we work with parents to identify the cause and find a solution together. The main reasons for very young children to engage in excessive hurtful behaviour are that:6They do not feel securely attached to someone who can interpret and meet their needs – this may be in the home and it may also be in the setting; 6Their parent, or carer in the setting, does not have skills in responding appropriately, and consequently negative patterns are developing where hurtful behaviour is the only response the child has to express feelings of anger;6The child may have insufficient language, or mastery of English, to express him or herself and may feel frustrated;6The child is exposed to levels of aggressive behaviour at home and may be at risk emotionally, or may be experiencing child abuse;6The child has a developmental condition that affects how they behave.

Where this does not work, we use the Code of Practice to support the child and family making the appropriate referrals to a Behaviour Support Team where necessary.

Rather than impose a strict set of rules upon children, we believe in working in partnership with them to create a policy which we can both own. What follows is an example of the kind of things discussed and agreed.

Child· To be a good example to any younger children present.· Remembering our manners and saying please and thank you.· To listen to our childminder.· To do as I am requested, and not plead for more time to play etc.· To never use bad language.· To respect others property.· Suggested sanctions/withdrawals of treats· To be honest and tell the truth · To follow the house rules

Childminder I aim to provide a quality childcare service for parents and children. In order to achieve this we need to set reasonable and appropriate limits to help manage the behaviour of the children.

· I will always be a good Role model to children · I endorse positive discipline as an effective way of setting limits.· I reward good behaviour.· I encourage self-discipline and respect for others.· I set realistic limits according to the child’s age and developments.· I encourage children and give explanations.· I am consistent with the rules.· I give praise and attention.· I help build a child’s self-esteem.· If a child is showing unwanted or inappropriate behaviour, I will remove them from the situation and try to distract

them with another activity.· I will not administer physical punishment or any form of punishment causing pain, discomfort or humiliation.· Hitting and hurting are always wrong and are not permitted in our home.· I will give five minute warnings that games need to be finished etc.· I will listen to the child’s opinions and include them in any planning wherever possible.

Other adults in the house (husband) , childminders own children , visitors to the setting· will give praise and attention when necessary · Set an example and be good role models to children · use appropriate Language · To tell me if they see a child doing something which breaks our house rules.

Whenever there is a breakdown in behaviour, we will remind the child of the rules they helped to draw up and refer back to the agreement. We will discuss if they feel that treats should be withdrawn etc.

I will consult and inform parents about behavioural problems and take action at an early stage . The input of parents is essential and I work co-operatively with parents .Where it is necessary to consult other agencies such as the Leicester specialist support service this will be done with the informed consent of parents. At no time will I use negative and critical language or speak harshly to a child. Any form of corporal punishment is strictly forbidden , children might be redirected to another area if i feel it would be best or a time out may be needed to calm the child down.Any child who shows persistent disruptive or destructive behaviour towards property or other children will have their behaviour recorded and parents will be informed of any action taken.I will terminate a contract without notice if the behaviour puts a person at risk.If you have any concerns regarding the managing of your child’s behaviour, please do not hesitate to contact me. It is important that we work together on managing behaviour in order not to confuse your child.

If i feel the behaviour of a parent/ carer is unacceptable i will inform the professionals (police, social services )

Biting

Biting can be an uncomfortable subject for parents of both the biter and the child who is bitten. We hope that this policy will explain how we deal with biting in our home. Please do discuss any concerns you may have regarding this issue with me. If your child is known to bite, we would prefer to know in advance.

Children bite for a variety of reasons. This may be because they are teething, frustrated, exploring using their mouth, asserting their independence and wanting to gain control, maybe of a toy, or they could be stressed. It may also be because they want to gain attention. We will work with you and your child to establish when and why they are biting. We will observe the child closely to see if certain conditions or situations trigger the behaviour and then work with them to try and avoid the incidents occurring.

This may involve altering the child’s routine, giving them more one to one attention, purchasing additional resources so sharing is not such a major Issue or, if it is because a child is teething, provide suitable teething resources.We will ensure that if a child is bitten, then they are comforted and given lots of attention. We will ensure that any first aid is applied correctly if required and the incident will be recorded in our book and parents of both children asked to sign it.

If your child bites, then we will remove them from the situation. We will explain to them, according to their age and understanding, that biting is unacceptable behaviour. For a younger child this may be by our tone of voice and facial expressions rather than lots of words. It may be necessary for us to exclude the child from an activity and use time outs until they are calm enough to return. We will also encourage the child to apologise to the child they have bitten, and work with them to develop strategies to help them deal with the reasons why they bite.

Many children go through a stage of biting. Please don’t be alarmed, it doesn’t last forever!

BullyingBullying involves the persistent physical or verbal abuse of another child or children. We take bullying very seriously. If a child bullies another child or children: we intervene to stop the child harming the other child or children; we explain to the child doing the bullying why her/his behaviour is inappropriate; we give reassurance to the child or children who have been bullied; we help the child who has done the bullying to say sorry for her/his actions; we make sure that children who bully receive praise when they display acceptable behaviour; We do not label children who bully; when children bully, we discuss what has happened with their parents and work out with them a plan for handling the child’s behaviour; and when children have been bullied, we share what has happened with their parents, explaining that the child who did the bullying is being helped to adopt more acceptable ways of behaving.We will not permit any form of bullying in our home. Bullying can be:

· Physical: Pushing, kicking, hitting, biting, etc.· Verbal: Name calling, sarcasm, rumour spreading and teasing· Emotional: Excluding, ridicule, humiliation, tormenting· Racist: taunts, graffiti and gestures

Being bullied can result in the victim having depression, low self esteem, shyness, poor academic achievement, isolation and, in extreme cases, feeling threatened or even attempted suicide. If a bully is left unchecked they will learn that they can get away with violence and aggression. A bully has a higher chance of acquiring a criminal record and not being able to have good relationships when they become an adult.

If we have any concerns that a child in our care is being bullied at (pre) school or is bullying, we will discuss the matter with you immediately. We will work with you to support your child to resolve the problem.

If your child is being bullied:· We will reassure them that the bullying is not their fault· Tell them that we care about them and that we are 100% on their side· We will give them lots of praise, encouragement and responsibilities to help them feel valued· We will work with you to help the child to develop techniques to deal withthe bully – assertiveness, walking away etc.

If your child is the bully:· We will reassure your child that we still care about them, but that it is their behaviour we don’t like and we will

work with them to help change this.· We will work with: your child to find ways to make amends for their actions

· We will develop a reward structure for good behaviour· We will discuss the matter with you, not in front of your child, to see if there are any problems that may have

triggered the bullying.

If you have any concerns regarding your child please discuss them with us as soon as possible. It is much better to deal with these problems before they become major issues.




1.1 Child development

1.2 Inclusive practise

1.3 Keeping safe




3.2 Supporting Every child



4.4 Areas of Learning and Development

Trampoline PolicyIt is well known that exercise is vital to aid the physical development of young children and to encourage them to continue a healthy lifestyle into their adult years.As an Ofsted Registered Childminder I encourage the children in my care to join in all sorts of different physical activities and provide a range of resources to make it fun and enjoyable. One of those resources is a large trampoline. I am sure that like me you have read articles in the press about the potential dangers of these trampolines, which is why I have put together the following procedure:· Minded children, of any age, are not permitted on the trampoline without written permission from their parents (please see Trampoline Permission Form) and we will discuss at the time of signing contracts , this depends on the age of the child the large trampoline is for children over 5 the small trampoline is for 1-5 year olds· All children will be supervised at all times on the Trampoline by a responsible adult· The trampoline may only be used when the safety netting is in place· The safety netting and the trampoline will be checked regularly to ensure it is in a good condition· All children using the trampoline must listen and follow any instructions from me, failure to do so may result in them no longer being permitted to use this piece of equipment· The trampoline will only be used by the recommended number of children.If you have any concerns regarding your child using this piece of equipment please do discuss them with me.updated November 2011

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1.3 24 Key Person 3.3 The learning 4.2 Active Learning

4.4 Areas of Learning

Keeping safe

environmentand Development

Accident and Emergency ProcedureIt is my absolute priority to keep children safe while they are in my care .My premises have been checked and they meet the national standards for childminding outlined by OFSTED . I also regularly review , update and practise safety routines.As a childminder I am legally required to have a valid First Aid certificate and this has to be updated every 3 years . I can administer basic first aid treatment , and my first aid box is clearly labelled and easily accessible . It is stored in the cupboard in the living room all visitors and competent children know where it is stored should it be necessary for them to fetch it in an emergency . Parents contact numbers are in my mobile phone which is on me at all times .I hold written permission from parents to get emergency treatment for their child if it is needed.Procedure If there is an accident :· first I will reassure the injured child while making sure that the other children in my care are safe. This may mean strapping baby in a buggy or sitting an older child somewhere safe . I do not want other children to become distressed and often the reaction of other children will upset the injured child more so if I can I will sit them out of the way but still in my view· If possible I will deal with the accident , if not will call 999 for help.· If i have to accompany or take a child to hospital , I will either take other children with me or call my emergency back up cover , This will either be another registered childminder or a known responsible adult a family member or another child’s parent (through social events all parents get to know each other and my family too. )If there is an emergency or accident , my emergency back up cover may contact you and you will be expected to collect your child straight away .If I manage to deal with the accident or emergency myself then i will contact parents immediatelyIf i accompany or take a child to hospital I will contact the parents and ask them to meet me at the hospital as soon as possibleIf I have an accident I will get the nearest responsible adult to help ( a neighbour ) while my back up person is contacted .I will do my best at all times to make sure the children in my care are kept safe, reassured and kept calm .Emergency back up cover back up registered childminder Rebecca palmer 07900610061Registered Assistant Tammy woolmer 07540846507Back up registered childminder Caroline sproston 07969340514Known responsible adults Dave milburn 0116 2241637Brenda, Jim Ball 0116 2713781we practise regular fire drills and other emergency evacuations and situations.If i or another child needs urgent medical attention i will call all parents immediately. please make sure all your details are kept up to date and in an emergency get here as soon as you can. If your child needs medical attention i will call you and inform you of the situation. I have a more detailed procedure that explains in full what i would do.If there is a fire children will be evacuated parents and fire crew called and we will locate at my optimum place of safety . I will wait with the children until parents arrive. I have a more detailed emergency evacuation procedure to follow in times of an emergency please read that too.




1.3 Keeping safe

1.4 Health and Well- Being

2.1 Respecting Each other



2.4 Key Person 3.4 The wider context

updated March 20th 2012

Equipment and resources policyStatement of intentWe believe that high quality early years care and education are promoted by providing children with safe, clean,attractive, developmentally appropriate resources, toys and equipment.AimWe aim to provide children with resources and equipment that help to consolidate and extend their knowledge,skills, interests and aptitudes.What we do.n6Provide play equipment and resources that are safe and - where applicable - conform to the BSEN safetystandards or Toys (Safety) Regulation (1995).z6Provide a sufficient quantity of equipment and resources for the number of children.6Provide resources that promote all areas of children’s learning and development, which may be child initiated oradult led.6Select books, equipment and resources that promote positive images of people of all colours, cultures andabilities, are non-discriminatory and avoid racial and gender stereotyping.6Provide play equipment and resources that promote continuity and progression, provide sufficient challenge andmeet the needs and interests of all children.6Provide made, natural and recycled materials that are clean, in good condition and safe for the children to use.6Provide furniture that is suitable for children and furniture that is suitable for adults.6Store and display resources and equipment where children can independently choose and select them.6Regularly check all resources and equipment that are available at each session and ensure they are put away atthe end of each session. We repair and clean, or replace, any unsafe, worn out, dirty or damaged equipment;6Plan activities and appropriate resources so that a balance of familiar equipment and resources and newexciting challenges is offered6I do daily risk assessments for the rooms, toys garden, equipment like car seats, high chairs etc large equipment and do weekly and monthly checks too.

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1.3 Keeping safe

2.3 Supporting Learning2.4 Key Person

3.2 Supporting Every Child


Physical environment The environment supports every child’s learning through planned experiences and activities that are challenging but achievable . The premises are safe and secure and is welcoming to all children and their families All children can access toys and equipment to promote their development and for their enjoymentI provide adequate space for the children and have a large safe outdoor play area, with age appropriate toys and equipment. All outdoor activities are closely supervised by myself at all times and the gate is locked at all times.July 11th 2012

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1.3 Keeping safe





A Unique Child

Safeguarding children and promoting the Welfare of children. (Including managing allegations of abuse against a member of staff)Statement of intent.We want to work with children, parents and the community to ensure the safety and rights of children and to give them the very best start in life. We will respond promptly and appropriately to all incidents or concerns of abuse that may occur and to work with statutory agencies in accordance with the procedures that are set down in “what to do if you are worried a child is being abused” a copy of which is available for parents to read.

Aims.To create an environment in our setting which encourages children to develop a positive selfimage, regardless of race, language, religion, culture or home background or disability; helpchildren to establish and sustain satisfying relationships within their families, with peers, andwith other adults;Encourage children to develop a sense of self-confidence and independence;Enable children to have the self-confidence and the vocabulary to resist inappropriateapproaches; and work with parents to build their understanding of and commitment to the rights and welfare of all our children.Our safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children policy is based on the three key commitments

Key commitment 1The setting is committed to building a ‘culture of safety’ in which children are protected from abuse and harm in all areas of its service delivery.

Staff and volunteers. 6We ensure all staff and parents are made aware of our safeguarding policies and procedures.46We provide adequate and appropriate staffing resources to meet the needs of children.

66Applicants for posts within the setting are clearly informed that the positions are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.:6Candidates are informed of the need to carry out ‘enhanced disclosure’ checks with the Criminal Records Bureau before posts can be confirmed.>6Where applications are rejected because of information that has been disclosed, applicants have the right to know and to challenge incorrect information.B6We abide by Ofsted requirements in respect of references and Criminal Record Bureau checks for staff and volunteers, to ensure that no disqualified person or unsuitable person works at the setting or has access to the children.F6Volunteers do not work unsupervised.J6We abide by the Protection of Vulnerable Groups Act requirements in respect of any person who is dismissed from our employment, or resigns in circumstances that would otherwise have lead to dismissal for reasons of child protection concern. N6We take security steps to ensure that we have control over who comes into the setting so that no unauthorised person has unsupervised access to the children We have procedures for recording the details of visitors to the setting.R6We take steps to ensure children are not photographed or filmed on video for any other purpose than to record their development , their participation in events organised by us or for the setting portfolio . Parents sign a consent form and can choose where they allow the photographs to be used, i.e setting portfolio, displays in setting, secret invite only facebook page, etc. they also have access to records holding visual images of their child. We will ensure these images are used solely for the purpose they are intended. Staff use the designated setting digital camera provided. Photographs are not stored on the computer they are deleted after being printed or they are stored on a separate setting memory card and this is kept in the safe locked at all times. V6 No use of mobile phones is permitted. This includes the childminder, other adults in the house , childminders own children , minded children with phones in the setting ,Assistant, volunteers, work experience , parents and visitors to the setting , anyone else who comes to the setting - i.e a repair man, a delivery driver, plumber etc. . Any person who doesn’t follow the setting policy for mobile phones may be asked to leave the setting. Please refer to the following policies. Other adults in the house, Photographs , visitors in the setting,Mobile phone and camera policy confidentiality and working with assistants

Key commitment 2The setting is committed to responding promptly and appropriately to all incidents or concerns of abuse that may occur and to work with statutory agencies in accordance with the procedures that are set down in ‘What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused’ (HMG 2006).Responding to suspicions of abuseZ6We acknowledge that abuse of children can take different forms - physical, emotional, and sexual, as well as neglect.^6When children are suffering from physical, sexual or emotional abuse, or may be experiencing neglect, this may be demonstrated through the things they say (direct or indirect disclosure) or through changes in their appearance, their behaviour, or their play.b6We take into account factors affecting parental capacity, such as social exclusion, domestic violence, parent’s drug or alcohol abuse, mental or physical illness or parent’s learning disability.f6We are aware of other factors that affect children’s vulnerability such as abuse of disabled children, fabricated or induced illness, child abuse linked to beliefs in spirit possession, sexual exploitation of children such as through internet abuse and Female Genital Mutilation that may affect or may have affected children and young people using our provision. Where we believe a child in our care or known to us may be affected by any of these factors we follow the procedure for reporting child protection concernsj6Where such evidence is apparent, I make a dated record of the details of the concern ’. The information is stored in the child’s personal file.n6We refer concerns to the local authority children’s social care department and co-operate fully in any subsequent investigation. NB In some cases this may mean the police or another agency identified by the Local Safeguarding Children’s Board.r6We take care not to influence the outcome either through the way we speak to children or by asking questions of children.v6We take account of the need to protect young people aged 16-19 as defined by the ChildrenAct 1989. This may include students or school children on work placement, young employees or young parents. Where abuse is suspected we follow the procedure for reporting any other child protection concerns. The views of the young person will always be taken into account, but the setting may override the young persons refusal to consent to share information if it feels that it is necessary to prevent a crime from

being committed or intervene where one may have been or to prevent harm to a child or adult. Sharing confidential information without consent is done only where not sharing it could be worse than the outcome of having shared it.

Recording suspicions of abuse and disclosuresWhere a child makes comments to myself or my assistant that gives cause for concern (disclosure), observes signs or signals that gives cause for concern, such as significant changes in behaviour; deterioration in general well-being; unexplained bruising, marks or signs of possible abuse or neglect myself or my assistant will :z6Listen to the child, offers reassurance and gives assurance that she or he will take action;does not question the child;6Make a written record that forms an objective record of the observation or disclosure that includes:The date and time of the observation or the disclosure;The exact words spoken by the child as far as possible;The name of the person to whom the concern was reported,with date and time; andThe names of any other person present at the timeThese records are signed and dated and kept in the child’s personal file, which is kept securely and confidentially. Where the Local Safeguarding Children Board stipulates the process for recording and sharing concerns, we include those procedures alongside this procedure and follow the steps set down by the Local Safeguarding Children Board.

Informing parents6Parents are normally the first point of contact. We discuss concerns with parents to gain their view of events unless we feel this may put the child in greater danger.6We inform parents where we make a record of concerns in their child’s file and that we also make a note of any discussion we have with them regarding a concern.6If a suspicion of abuse warrants referral to social care, parents are informed at the same time that the referral will be made, except where the guidance of the Local Safeguarding Children Board does not allow this, for example, where it is believed that the child may be placed in greater danger. This will usually be the case where the parent is the likely abuser. In these cases the social workers will inform parents.

Liaison with other agencies6We work within the Local Safeguarding Children Board guidelines.6We have a copy of ‘What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused’ for parents and staff and all staff are familiar with what to do if they have concerns.6We have procedures for contacting the local authority on child protection issues, including maintaining a list of names, addresses and telephone numbers of social services. 6We notify the registration authority (Ofsted) of any incident or accident and any changes in our arrangements, which may affect the wellbeing of children or where an allegation of abuse is made against a member of staff.

Allegations against staff6We ensure that all parents know how to complain about the behaviour or actions of staff or volunteers within the setting, which may include an allegation of abuse.6We follow the guidance of the Local Safeguarding Children Board when responding to any complaint that a member of staff, or volunteer within the setting has abused a child.6We respond to any disclosure by children or staff that abuse by a member of staff or volunteer within the setting, that may have taken, or is taking place, by first recording the details of any such alleged incident.6We refer any such complaint immediately to the local authority’s social care department to investigate. We also report any such alleged incident to Ofsted and what measures we have taken. We are aware that it is an offence not to do this.6We co-operate entirely with any investigation carried out by children’s social care in conjunction with the police.Where I and children’s social care agree it is appropriate in the circumstances, to suspend the member of staff, or the volunteer, for the duration of the investigation. This is not an indication of admission that the alleged incident has taken place, but is to protect the staff as well as children and families throughout the process.Disciplinary actionWhere a member of staff or volunteer has been dismissed due to engaging in activities that caused

concern for the safeguarding of children or vulnerable adults, we will notify the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) of relevant information so that individuals who pose a threat to children (and vulnerable groups), can be identified and barred from working with these groups.

Key commitment 3The setting is committed to promoting awareness of child abuse issues throughout its training and learning programmes for adults. It is also committed to empowering young children, through its early childhood curriculum, promoting their right to be strong, resilient and listened to.

Training6We seek out training opportunities for all adults involved in the setting to ensure that they are able to recognise the signs and signals of possible physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect and that they are aware of the local authority guide-lines (Keeping children safe is everybody’s business -and working together to safeguard children 2010 information booklets )for making referrals6We ensure that all staff know the procedures for reporting and recording their concerns in the setting.

PlanningThe layout of the rooms allows for constant supervision. No child is left alone with staff or volunteers in a one-to-one situation without being visible to others.

Curriculum6We introduce key elements of keeping children safe into our planning to promote the personal, social and emotional development of all children, so that they may grow to be strong, resilient and listened to and that they develop an understanding of why and how to keep safe.6We create within the setting a culture of value and respect for the individual, having positive regard for children’s heritage arising from their colour, ethnic origin , languages spoken at home, cultural and social background.6We ensure that this is carried out in a way that is developmentally appropriate for the children.

ConfidentialityAll suspicions and investigations are kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know. Any information is shared under the guidance of the Local Safeguarding Children Board.Support to families6We believe in building trusting and supportive relationships with families, staff and volunteers in the group.6We make clear to parents our role and responsibilities in relation to child protection, such as for the reporting of concerns, providing information, monitoring of the child, and liaising at all times with the local children’s social care team.6We will continue to welcome the child and the family whilst investigations are being made in relation to any alleged abuse. 6We follow the Child Protection Plan as set by the child’s social care worker in relation to the setting’s designated role and tasks in supporting that child and their family, subsequent to any investigation.6Confidential records kept on a child are shared with the child’s parents or those who have parental responsibility for the child in accordance with the Confidentiality and Access to Records procedure and only if appropriate under the guidance of the Local Safeguarding Children BoardAs a childminder I will be working very closely with your child .I do my best through the care I offer children to show them how to keep themselves safe through role play books, personal hygiene, becoming independent with dressing, books , puppets and various other resources .If you would like to ask me more about this matter please contact me in the usual manner.I have lots of leaflets and resources for this matter so please ask.

Please refer to working with assistants policy, photography policy, Other adults in the house Policy , Camera, mobile phone and Recording device policy

Professionals is a broad term which I use to cover :

Police child abuse investigation unit. In Leicester there is a team of specially trained and experienced police officers who are skilled in working with children and families.Children and young peoples service. Social workers have a major role in enquiring into child abuse and assessing the needs of families .

Leicestershire and Rutland Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) The child protection work of the

police and social services together with that of all other professionals working with children and their parents is conducted according to the LSCB procedures .

Children and young peoples services Social workers have a major role in enquiring into child abuse and assessing the needs of families

Useful contact details and up to date information : For Children’s Social Care, the Central Duty Desk is the first point of contact for most enquiries. Phone: 0116 305 0005, fax: 0116 305 0011 or email: [email protected] replaces the individual district social care offices contact numbers.Leicestershire

The electronic Agency Referral Form is secure http://www.lrlscb.org/index/worriedaboutachild.htm and should be used by professionals and members of the public to report concerns regarding a child or young person to our Central Duty Service electronically.

Should the referring person be unable to use the secure electronic link, paper/printed versions can be faxed to 0116 305 0011 or posted to the following address:

Central Duty Team,Leicestershire County Council,Eastern Annexe,County Hall,Glenfield,LeicestershireLE3 8SR

Referrals can be made by telephone to: 0116 3050005E-mail: [email protected]

Leicester CityReferrals can be made by:Telephone to 0116 252 7004Fax to 0116 256 5067E-mail to [email protected]

or by secure e-mail to

[email protected]

Post or in person to:Duty & Assessment Service,1 Grey Friars,Leicester,LE1 5PH

Police Contact Telephone NumberPolice 0116 222 2222 / 999 - 112 in emergenciesCrimestoppers 0800 555 111 (free and confidential)

Worried about a child?

You can talk with an NSPCC counsellor for free, 24 hours a day. Call 0808 800 5000Do you need to talk? Call ChildLine on 0800 1111 or visit online.

The Emergency Duty Team (EDT) (covers all of Leicestershire and Rutland)provides a response to social work emergencies that occur outside office hours including evenings, weekends and bank holidays, to both adults in need of community care services, and, to children and families. A professional telephone answering service will take details and arrange for a staff member from the EDT to call back.Emergency Duty Team1, Grey FriarsLEICESTER

http://www.lrlscb.org/index/worriedaboutachild.htm

LE1 5PHPhone 0116 255 1606 (not office hours)Fax 0116 256 8269 (office hours only)

implemented Feb 2010revised June 11th 2012revised July 13th 2012

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Camera, mobile phone and Recording device policy

I operate a camera, mobile phone and recording device policy in order to protect children, protect staff from allegations and maintain high standards of care within the setting. The childminder forbids the use of mobile phones, personal cameras and recording devices by staff members, students, volunteers and visitors to the setting. Any personal devices that are brought into the setting should be turned off, signed into the book and locked away in the safe. Staff members, students and volunteers may access personal devices during breaks however they are not used within the setting. Staff students and volunteers must exit the building before turning on devices. Any staff member, volunteer or student found to be using mobile phones or recording devices whilst on the premises will have the device confiscated by me and disciplinary procedures will be carried out. Children will only be photographed using the setting camera and play cameras provided for the children. Cameras are to be handed in to me at the end of the working day to be locked away. Photographs are uploaded onto secure computer which is to stay on setting premises unless being serviced.Data protection rules apply at all times . Since 2008, as part of the Early Years Foundation Stage, childminders in England have been expected to keep more detailed records about individual children’s development and because digital camera are down loaded on a computer, we need to register as a Data Controller with the Information Commissioner’s Office ICO Children will only be photographed if written consent has been obtained. Parents are asked not to use their phones or cameras in the setting or when accompanying the childminder on trips outside of the setting. Children bringing phones to the setting Mobile phones have become an important and invaluable part of our modern lifestyle .Children are not permitted to bring phones to the setting ,unless a child has a valid reason (i.e child walks to the setting from school without my supervision ) then the phone is required to be kept in the safe. Children will not take pictures on their phones of the setting or any other child. The childminder will still take no responsibility for this personal property. Parents should respect other children’s feelings and while one child may have a top of the range phone not all children have these privileges so a little discretion is needed .Also with the increasing ease of down loading there may be music on your child’s phone that is not acceptable swear-words or obscene images etc so with this in mind this is why this policy is upheld. sept 2011 Amended June 11th 2012

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Other Adults in the House PolicyThere are other adults in the house:

Mr Christopher Ball - Childminder’s Husband

All adults in the house have undergone Criminal Record Bureau Checks and received clearances. They are all very supportive of my chosen career as a Childminder and assist me in any way they can. If they are at home when I am minding they all interact well with the children and are good role models.I encourage them to join in with the activities and the children respond well to them.

Although they have been thoroughly checked to be suitable to be near young children, I would like to reassure you that at no time is anyone, other than myself, allowed to help the children with their intimate care, i.e. nappy changing and toileting. This is to protect your child and to protect my family from any possible allegations of abuse.

Other Adults will not take any photographs of Minded children on there own personal phone or camera and will only use the designated setting phone and camera if i request them too i.e to take a picture of me doing an activity with the children.

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Visitors In my HomeAs an Ofsted registered Childminder I am very aware of my role in keeping your child safe. Whilst children need to mix with other children and adults it is my responsibility to ensure the suitability of those that they come into contact during minded hours. I have therefore written the following policy regarding visitors in my setting during my minded hours.· Any regular visitors to my setting will be asked to complete a CM2 form and will then undertake a Criminal Record Bureau Check· I will not leave a minded child in a room alone with a visitor, unless I know they have been CRB cleared, for example another Ofsted Registered Childminder.· I will not allow any visitors to take my minded children to the toilet or change their nappies.· I will request identification from all visitors not known to me and will refuse entry if I am unsure of them.· I will endeavour, when possible, to arrange for any maintenance work to my property to be carried out

at weekends and during non-minding hours.· I will maintain a visitors book which is available for you to look at.Generally friends and family members do not turn up unannounced and parents and children get to know people who I am in regular contact with through social events parties, play groups, park etc and parents are invited to meet them , this is explained when a parent signs a contract. Potential clients are asked a number of questions over the phone to determine if they are genuine and care is taken not to introduce intruders in the property and most clients come via word or mouth from past or present clients , most interviews with new families take place in the evening when there is 2 adults here.Visitors to the setting will be asked to refrain from using their mobile phones for any purpose . revised July 13th 2012

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Partnership with parents/ carers

The relationship with parents/carers is very important to me and essential for communication between home and setting.As a Registered Childminder I aim to work in partnership with parents as I feel this will have a positive impact on your child’s development and learning, I aim to form a good relationship with parents so that information regarding your child can be exchanged easily. Our policies and procedures will be shown to you on our initial meeting and all the relevant forms that we need you to sign will be completed on our second meeting. I am always available for discussion regarding your child and any information on your child’s activities throughout the day will always be passed on to you by means of a daily diary / home link book. It will also include any food eaten and sleeping patterns etc. Parents are recognised as the prime carers of their child and I will never try to take over the role of the parents.

I firmly believe that parents should be able to visit their child whilst in my care so I provide an open door policy which means you are always welcome to visit our home at any time during the day. Please do call first, if possible, as we may be going out. You are, of course, always welcome to call or text anytime to ask about your child.

I aim to provide a good service for you and your child and it is important to us that you feel our service is of high quality, if you have any complaints about our service please feel free to come and discuss them with me so that we can respond quickly and effectively. (Please refer to complaints procedure) Also if you have any positive comments you would like to discuss with us then obviously they would be welcomed too.

I would appreciate being informed of any change at home that might affect your child and I will treat anything you tell us in the strictest of confidence.

I do try to incorporate different cultural and religious events and festivals in our planning of activities. If you have any suggestions please do let me know! I aim to listen to and value the parent’s contribution to the setting and help them be active in their Childs learning. I do this by -:

• Providing “intro” sessions to setting to ensure the children are integrated into thesetting slowly, with ease and at their own pace. Parents/carers are available if children need extra

reassurance whilst I engage them in fun activities/opportunities and start to introduce them to the routine of the setting . This time is also used to gain information on the Childs social skills, likes and dislikes and to give us an idea on how they will react to being separated from their parents/carer when the time comes.

• Providing a notice board for the parents that show information about my qualifications, setting information , certificates , as well as weekly plans, and the setting timetable of activities as well as information on the EYFS.

• The prospectus - Available in English, on cd rom, emailed and via my website .

• Yearly questionnaire – used to gain valuable information and opinions from parents about how their child is progressing and how they feel that the setting could improve.

• Email communication weekly giving a full account of the child’s week and plans for the following week plus emailed next steps and planning for their child.

• The initial planning sheet and All about me book - Designed to gain as much information as possible about the child, their likes and dislikes and cultural background. This is completed during the registration process, and will form the basis for planning for the child. The child’s all about me folder is available for parents/carers to see any time.There are also forms to update this information as and when child’s interests change roughly i send these home every 2 months.

• Website with up to date setting information and policies etc. parents can access parents page,newsletters, up to date information , EYFS and much more .

• A Monthly newsletter - printed emailed to each parent, shared on facebook and my website ! containing any relevant information that may be needed throughout the month, such as the topics, dates, important notices, general news items about children or the setting.

• Home to childminder daily dairy / communication book – used to inform parents/carers of activities/opportunities that their child is doing, there is also plenty of space for parents to record any other information such as what their child has done in the evening , over the weekend or any other messages from home.

• Weekend book- I have introduced a “weekend book” so that you can further get involved in your child’s learning. This will be given to each child in turn on the last day that they attend each week and should be returned on their first day back, this will ensure that all the children get involved. The idea is to give an account of your child’s weekend using a variety of media. When it is your child’s turn please encourage them to complete their page or pages with for example -: Photographs, Stickers, children’s drawing, Children’s writing, likes and dislikes, what they have done, Small items that they have collected. This will then form the basis of our planning for your child.

• Closed invite only Facebook page – Parents can share information, photos etc - with written consent . They have access to a range of current and informative government websites, latest setting and local area news and events and much more. You can also talk privately to me though this facility aswell .

• My personal email address has also been given to parents to further aid communications my personal email address has also been given to parents to further aid communications

• Verbal hand over every day

• parents / childminder consultation usually every 3 months to go through learning journey and planning and also we arrange a meeting annually to review contracts . I am always available to talk to and parents about their child’s progress are encouraged to look through learning journeys often but it is usually advisable to arrange a time convenient for both of us to go through it.

Daily diaries I provide parents with a Daily diary which will be passed back and forth between us daily. The daily diary which is used to record how your child felt today, what they enjoyed doing/not enjoyed doing, nappy changes ,whether they ate well and any other snippets of their day that I think you would like to know.There is room for Parents to make comments share information about your child’s evening or

weekend it only has to be a quick sentence, notes etc not a massive essay . Parents are are encouraged to use the book to , to ask questions or to make comments .These are a important information source and helps me in planning activities and next steps for your child , share those special moments a first tooth a first word or a new fear or dislike . Please support me with this and use it even if its once a week you jot a little note it all helps our home to setting relationship.

NewslettersI give parents monthly newsletters which keep them up to date with whats going on these are emailed, shared on facebook and on website and can be printed if parents request one is on the display in the setting

Learning journeyChildren are given there own “ All about me” folder to store all there work, photos and anything we collect while out like shells, leaves etc .This is there learning journey, Each child has there own planning file- learning journey - , this is individual to each child and both parents and myself can see where a child is at developmentally . I do weekly planned observations on all the children and do other observations when i notice a child is doing something previously they could not i.e spontaneously putting their own shoe on. Parents are also encouraged to provide information for the learning journey by using telling me, write in the daily diary , stories from home sheets, child’s week forms and child interests forms. I use the observations to further an activity to help the child achieve there full potential in that area. Every time I plan something for the child I write what i would expect them to gain from the activity and then i evaluate it saying how i can further there leaning next time. Some of the things I would use is lego which would cover colours, counting etc it is all things we do with the children naturally but its making a note of it.

Stories From Homethese can be used by parents to record information about those moments that you spend with your child for example bedtime story, going shopping, washing up playing together . They could be used to record achievements such as good behaviour, giving up their dummy, potty training, brushing teeth , achievements from home,etc. You can use them to record anything you like this information is invaluable to me as your child’s childminder and will help me gain a more holistic view of your child. The sheets will then go in your child’s folder and help fill in the gaps within their learning journey through the setting . If you would like more sheets please ask

My child’s week this is a table to fill in the places your child goes throughout the week, i.e dance class, swimming, gym, grandparents etc parents are asked to update as the child’s interests change or routines change i.e child starts nursery etc.

My childs interestsThis is filled in usually every few months example when child starts then again in 4 months , I fill in what the interests are here and you fill in there interests at home , it can be tv toys, books, dressing up etc.

Bessie bear is a new initiative to further enhance our parent carer partnership , bessie goes home with the children at weekends and joins in the normal family activities keeping a diary of her adventures. parents are encouraged to take photos of their time aswell .

I recognise the parents are the child’s primary carer and educator and know the importance of working together with parents in caring for and educating their child.Each time the child attends it is helpful to me if the parents give feedback on how the child has been since the last session, any special event that they have been involved in which the child may like to talk about or something that may have caused tiredness or the child to be especially excited, angry or upset. All this information helps me respond most effectively to the child’s individual needs and i will always respond in the strictest of confidence over any personal information given by parents, family or the child.I will keep records of children’s progress and development and share these with parents. All information is available anytime for parents to see. All children’s files are confidential and will only be seen by myself and parents and relevant professionals if necessary, i.e child’s school, OFSTED, Social worker health visitor etc . Any work that the child has done is shown on display or stored in a folder or taken home .I will not discuss another child with a parent even if they know the family or are related .

I promote learning through play and can assure you that your child will be able to develop naturally at their own pace whilst enjoying their time with me.

updated 3rd july 2012

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Working with other settings As an Ofsted Registered Childminder working to the Early Years Foundation Stage, I will work with any other settings that your child/children attend, for example,Playschool, nursery and school, to ensure partnership working. I will, with your written permission, discuss with the other setting what activities they are currently planning for your child and link this into my own planning. This will extend their understanding and learning. I will make available to the setting the child’s “learning Journey” and ask to see theirs. I will do this on a regular basis, as I believe this is something that is worthy of celebrating. This will enable us to work as a team and provide continuity for your child’s development. Currant links with Local playschools are already in force and often we do activities together like fire station visits, animal handling workshops, special theme days within the playgroup This makes transition to playschool easier for children when the times comes.When a child is due to start another setting playschool or school etc I will get parental consent to allow the setting to communicate with me. Implemented May 15th 2012

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Confidentiality and Data Protection policyI respect the privacy of children, parents , assistants, volunteers , while ensuring I provide high quality care and play opportunities in our setting.

Data Protection Act (1998). Rules covering confidential data stored digitally. Childminders storing confidential children’s information on a computer must also register with the Information Commissioner’s office. Also on line stored information and photographs are registered and protected by recognised body. preventing information on children being accessed by other unprofessional.

Aim

I always check wether parents regard the information they share with me to be regarded as confidential or not.I aim to ensure that all parents can share information in the confidence that it will only be used to enhance the welfare of their children.

Some times parents share information with other parents , the setting can not be held responsible if that information is shared beyond those parents the person confided in

Please refer to Personal websites, web-blogs and social networking site policy and Setting Website and Facebook procedures to prevent setting users sharing information about the setting, children, parents or staff over the internet, social networking sites, websites etc

We meet the requirements of the Human Rights Act 1998 with regard to protecting the individual’s rights to a private family life, home and correspondence. Our only justification to interfere with this ‘right’ is where we believe that a child may be at risk of significant harm, to prevent a crime or disorder.

We meet the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1998 with regard to the information kept about families, including how it is collected, stored and used.I am registered as a Data controller .

we refer to Information sharing: Guidance for practitioners and managers DCSF-2008 - This guidance is for all practitioners who provide services to children, young people, adults and families, who have to make decisions about sharing personal information on a case-by-case basis. It is also for managers and advisors who support these practitioners in their decision making and for others with responsibility for information governance.

Details stored on pc are kept safe and confidential by having a separate user I.D on the computer and having passwords to protect it , no one knows the pass word except me and also the screensaver is password protected for when the pc is left Idle . Family members and minded children do not have access to this user I.D and the account set up for family and minded children is protected with parental controls so children can not access certain websites from the pc .

We have regard to the Common Law Duty of Confidentiality and only share information with other professionals or agencies on a ‘benefit to know’ basis, with consent from parents, or without their consent in specified circumstances relating to safeguarding children.We keep two kinds of records on children attending our setting:

Development records These include :

Observations, samples of work , photos etc kept in the child learning journey . These are kept on the premises at all times and parents / carer can see their child’s folder at any time that is convenient . A parent can request that the folders are shared with other settings, childminders, with prior consent to share information ( please refer to working with other settings policy)Parents can not have access to other children’s folders without consent from the parent,

Personal records These include:

Registration and admission forms signed contract , Signed consents. Correspondence concerning the child or family. Reports or minutes from meetings concerning the child from other agencies. An on-going record of relevant contact with parents Observations by staff on any confidential matter involving the child, such as developmental concerns or child protection matters, incident and accident logs; care plans; behaviour plans et cetera.

These confidential records are stored securely in the setting in a locked file. All information will be stored on the premises in a locked file, and will only be accessible to my self, and a parent if requested for approximately 3years.

Parents have access to the files and records of their own children but do not have access to information about any other child.

Staff will not discuss personal information given by parents with other members of staff, except where it affects planning for the child’s needs. Staff induction includes an awareness of the importance of confidentiality in the Childminders, or assistants role.

Information Sharing concerning Child Protection Issues

There are times when we are required to share information about a child or their family. These are when there are:

Concerns a child is or may be suffering significant harm. Concerns about ‘serious harm to adults’ (such as domestic violence or other matters affecting the welfare of parents).

We explain to families about our duty to share information for the above reasons.

Where we have concerns, we would normally gain consent from families to share these. This does not have to be in writing, but a written record will be made that verbal consent has been given.

We do not seek consent from parents to share information where we believe that a child, or a vulnerable adult, may be endangered by seeking to gain consent. For example, where we have cause to believe a parent may try to cover up abuse or threaten a child.

Where we take a decision to share information without consent it is recorded in the child’s file and the reason clearly stated.

Where evidence to support our concerns is not clear we may seek advice from the local Safeguarding children board or the NSPCC.

We only share relevant information that is accurate, factual, non-judgemental and up to date.Information Sharing Concerning a Child’s Development

I am committed to the development of the children attending the setting. With the introduction of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and a higher emphasis on providing high quality care through partnership and collaboration, we will be observing the development of EYFS children during their time at my setting With the permission of parents we will be sharing this with other services that may be involved in the care of your children such as schools and external support agencies.

I am also committed in working with children with additional needs. To achieve this, I with parental permission, will gather and share information between services such as schools, local ‘Inclusion Teams’, Health Care professionals and other outside agencies. The information will be used to provide a consistency of care and offer support suited to a child’s needs.Other records

Issues to do with the employment of staff, whether paid or unpaid, remain confidential to the people directly involved with making personnel decisions.

When Students undertaking recognised qualifications and training are observing within the setting, they are informed of our confidentiality policy and required to respect it.

Access to personal records

Parents may request access to any records held on their child and family following the procedure below.

Any request to see the child’s personal file by a parent or person with parental responsibility must be made in writing to myself I aim to provide access to requested records within 14 days – once the file is prepared by myself All third parties are written to, stating that a request for disclosure has been received and asking for their permission to disclose to the person requesting it. A copy of these letters are retained on the file. ‘Third parties’ include all family members who may be referred to in the records. ‘Third parties’ also includes workers from any other agency, including Social Care, the Health Authority, etc. It is usual for agencies to refuse consent to disclose, preferring the individual to go directly to them. When all the consents/refusals to disclose have been received these are attached to the copy of the request letter. A photocopy of the complete file is taken as a record. I will go through the file and remove any information that a third party has refused consent to disclose. This is best done with a thick black marker, to score through every reference to the third party and information they have added to the file. What remains is the information recorded by myself , detailing the work initiated and followed by them in relation to confidential matters. This is called the ‘clean copy’. The ‘clean copy’ is photocopied for the parents who are then invited into the Childcare setting to discuss the contents. The file will never be given to the parent, but should be shared by me so that it can be explained. Legal advice may be sought before sharing a file, especially where the parent has possible grounds for litigation against me or another (third party) agency. Support from Local authority development Officer would also be sought.

All the undertakings above are subject to the paramount commitment of my childcare setting which is to the safety and well-being of the child. Please see also my policy on Safeguarding and promoting the Welfare of children. Any information regarding your child or your family, given to me either verbally or in writing, will be treated as confidential.Parents will have access to their own child’s records but not to others. All documentation relating to your child is stored in a file, which is not accessible to any other party.I will not discuss your child with others including family members and friends we may bump into on an outing unless I have permission from you, for example to take your baby to be weighed by the Health Visitor. I will however divulge confidential information to Social Services and to Ofsted if I have any concerns that your child is being abused. Please see my safeguarding Policy.You will also find out confidential information about my family and myself as well as other children and their families during the course of our working relationship and I would be grateful if you too would respect confidentiality and not repeat what you may have been told to other parties. No one likes to be gossiped about.If you have any concerns regarding this policy please do not hesitate to contact me. Information about the setting or the children i mind will not be put on the internet . photographs of the children will not be on the setting website , brightbunnies facebook page or my personal facebook or other social networking sites ,Parents are asked not to divulge setting information over the internet and asked to adhere to the photography policy if using cameras at the setting or on a day trip.Photos with parental consent will be on the closed brightbuniies facebook group .

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3.1 Observation Assessment and Planning

may 12th 2012

Personal websites, web-blogs and social networking site policyStatement of intentI recognise that many people using this setting ,Myself, My family, My assistant , Volunteers , students parents and carers use the Internet for personal purposes. The purpose of this policy is to outline the responsibilities of all employees, parents and carers when using social networking sites such as facebook, twitter, my space etc, or personal websites. This policy relates to material posted on public areas and those restricted to certain individuals.AimWhilst we recognise that employees, parents and carers are free to use these sites. They must ensure that they do not breach the law, disclose settings confidential information, libel the setting, or disclose personal data or information about any individual that could breach the Data Protection Act 1998.

Social networking site proceduresI respect everyone’s right to a private life; however I must ensure that confidentiality and my reputation is protected. I therefore require all employees, parents and carers who use networking sites -:·6All information concerning the children, their families or staff of the setting must be kept confidential.·6If an employee, parent or carer makes a defamatory (libellous) statement that has been published on the Internet they maybe legally liable for any hurt or damage to the individual concerned.·6No personal information should be published about an individual without his/her consent; otherwise they risk breaching the Data Protection Act 1998, which is a criminal offence.·6No information that is abusive, defamatory, sexist, racist or that could be interpreted as harassment or bullying should be published on the Internet.¢6No information that brings the setting into disrepute should be published on the Internet.¦6All employees should ensure that they do not conduct themselves in a way that is detrimental to the setting.ª6Take care not to allow their interaction on these sites to damage working relationships with colleagues or parents.





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Setting Website and Facebook proceduresThe setting website and facebook page allow us to share information and aid communication between all parties. Employees and parents however should be careful not to -:·6Post criticisms as these will not be tolerated even if they are true and not defamatory. This practice will amount to a breach of the employee’s contract/child’s registration and could lead to action under the setting disciplinary procedure or withdrawal of the child from the setting ¸6Post photographs or information of children, staff or parents without prior permission.¼6Link their own personal websites, social network site to the setting.À6Include any information that breaches copyright and should link to other material rather than cutting and pasting it.Security and identity theftEmployees, parents and carers should be aware that social networking and web sites are a public forum; you should not assume that entries made on these sites would remain private.

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Cyber bullyingThe setting is committed to ensuring that all children, staff, parents and carers are treated with dignity and respect. Bullying and harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. Cyberbullying methods could include text messages, mobile phone calls, circulating photos or video clips or by posting comments on social internet sites or in chat rooms. Cyber bullying could lead to criminal prosecution under the Malicious Communications Act 1988. The setting whistleblower and complaints procedures aim to provide guidance to all those who work with or within the setting. Employees with complaints about their own personal circumstances should refer to the whistle blowers policy and parents and carers should refer to the setting complaints procedure.Disciplinary actionIf necessary action will be taken against any employee, parent or carer who is found to havebreached this policy.Legal framework°6Data Protection Act 1998.Î6Malicious Communications Act 1988.updated 12th may 2012

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Internet Safety Policy

The internet is an incredible resource for children to access, support for their homework, chatting to friends etc, but it can also be a very dangerous place for them. They can be exposed to inappropriate material, harassment and bullying, viruses and hackers and be conned into giving away financial information. They can also be vulnerable to on-line grooming by paedophiles.

As a Childminder I offer children the opportunity to use the computer and the internet; however I have introduced a range of procedures to ensure their safety.

· I have a filter on my computer that blocks out most inappropriate material

· I do not permit the children to go onto chat rooms

· I check the children’s emails to ensure that they are not being bullied or sending anything inappropriate

· I talk to the children about the websites they are using

· I am always nearby so can keep an eye out on what websites they are visiting

· I check the history on the computer regularly

· I discuss with the children about the importance of keeping safe on line, not forwarding on chain letters, not talking to people they don’t know, not giving out personal information that could enable people to identify them, to tell me if they are worried about anything and to never arrange to meet anyone they have spoken to online.

· The children are not permitted to use a webcam .

If you would rather your child was not allowed access to the internet then please let me know.

I am also aware of the need to limit the time children spend on computers and will develop strategies to ensure that they spend a balance of time engaged in ICT and other activities.

If you have any concerns regarding this policy then please do not hesitate to contact me.

There are some excellent websites that provide advice on internet safety both aimed at parents/carers and children of different ages, including videos to watch and quizzes.

implemented June 10th 2012

Food and drink policy.Statement of intent.The setting regards meals and snack time as an important part of the settings day. Eating represents asocial time for children and adults and helps children to learn about healthy eating.Aim.At meal times, we aim to provide nutritious food, which meets the children’s individual dietaryneeds. We aim to meet the requirements of the five Every Child Matters outcomes - helpingchildren to be healthy.

l hold a current Basic Food Hygiene certificate.Food and drink procedureBefore a child starts to attend the setting we find out from parents their children’s dietary needsand preferences, including any allergies. (See the Managing Children with Allergies policy).µ We record information about each child’s dietary needs in registration forms and parentssign the record to signify that it is correct. We regularly consult with parents to ensurethat our records of their children’s dietary needs - including any allergies are up to date. Parents sign the updated record to signify that it is correct.µ We implement systems to ensure that children receive only food and drink, which isconsistent with their dietary needs and their parents’ wishes. µ I provide nutritious foodµmeal times are social occasions in which both children and staff participate. We usemeal times to help children to develop independence through making choices, serving foodand drink and feeding themselves.µ milk will be provided for those children who will drink milk.µ We have fresh drinking water constantly available for the children.µChildren are encouraged to try out different foods such as noodles, rice, and pancakes etcduring some of their planned activities.µFruit shoot type drinks should be avoided due to the choking risk . µ We are very vigilant about nut allergies at all times and we take care not to provide foodcontaining nuts or nut products





1.3 Keeping safe


2.2 Parents as Partner

2.4 Key Person

32 Supporting Every Child


4.4 Areas of learning and development

May 14th 2012

Special educational needsPrinciples/aims: Steps are taken to promote the welfare and development of the children here, in partnership with the parents and other professionals.#each child is given the opportunity to achieve their personal best and to become a confident learner#all children access a full range of activities through which they can develop and learn through play#support is given to children with special educational needs so they have full access to the curriculum#children with special educational needs are recognised as individuals and their individual needs are met#children with special educational needs are included with their peers#I aim to promote positive self esteem of children with special educational needs#I foster communication between staff/parents/carers/other professionals and agencies#I recognise that special educational needs are the responsibility of all staff and aim to develop the skills of all#I accept and value each other, valuing differences#we work in partnership with parents/carers enabling them to play an active role in their child’s education. Early identification of special educational needs in children , based on discussion with parents and observation, will ensure that appropriate intervention can be planned and carried out to respond effectively to children’s individual needs. Parents will be involved and kept informed at all times.Admissions:we admit all children, including those with special educational needs, from age 3 months It is ‘unlawful’ to treat a child ‘less favourably for a reason related to their disability’ (Disability and the Equality Act 2010). Therefore, a child cannot be refused a place at a registered setting/school on the grounds of special educational needs or disability unless there are no reasonable adjustments that could be made to meet their needs and I can justify my decision to refuse admission. # consultation arrangements with parents/carers prior to admission, during which I will consider a child’s individual needs . All parents are given forms to fill in giving me detailed information about the things their child can and can not do and any health / special needs requirements , the way affects there day to day activities and it will fully discussed at this point how I can successfully look after this child putting special action plans in place, maybe one to one with assistant or through Leicester county council *Childcare providers may apply (with the agreement of the area Senco) for funding to help employ an additional member of staff for extra support. # I will accommodate any child who has a food allergy and work with the parents to create there diet. . Childminders have access to a senco ( special educational needs co-ordinater ). The Senco is responsible for co ordinating provision for children who have special educational needs. I will work with parents, my senco and other processionals to create a learning programme for any child with special needs and with everyone’s help and advice will get sensory, mobility aids , resources suitable for the individual child. Premises:# the play room is situated on the ground floor and a downstairs toilet easily accessible and french doors at the rear make easy entry for wheelchairs or mobility aids . Roles and responsibilities:# the whole setting has a responsibility for meeting individual needs including assistants and volunteers

. # our setting SENCO is The Early Years department at Leicestershire council.Early Years SEN Inclusion ServiceSpecialist Teaching ServicesRoom 600County HallLeicester RoadGlenfieldLeicestershireLE3 8RAEmail: [email protected]: 0116 305 9400Fax: 0116 305 5184Identification and assessment:*early identification of difficulties and appropriate intervention is planned and carried out *parents/carers are involved and kept informed *children who are experiencing difficulty with their learning are identified through discussion with parents/carers, observations, routine health screening and discussion with colleagues *we observe the progress that all children make and note any child who seems to be having difficulty with their learning. this includes children who have difficulty behaving appropriately *assessment is play basedLevels of provision: * we observe the progress that all children make *we record progress and share it with parents/carers regularly * if a child needs something additional to or different from the level of support given at whole setting arrangements, we discuss this with parents/carers and prepare an Individual Education Plan outlining clear targets for that child. This is called Early Years ActionMonitoring and reviewing * monitoring of progress is ongoing * regular reviews are carried out every four months/termly *we encourage parents/carers to attend all reviewsResources: *I have a wide range of toys in the setting/school to meet different learning needs* when required we access specialist equipment or materials from the local toy library* we provide materials relating to interests and abilities * we have specialist facilities.withdrawal room, quiet areaInclusion: *we differentiate activities to ensure all children have access to the curriculum * children with SEN follow the EYFS curriculum at an appropriate level * children are involved in making choices *our planning addresses children’s individual needs *we make use of augmentative communication (e.g. Makaton signing, picture symbols)* our equipment and materials include positive images of children with special educational needsPhysical access * furniture is arranged to accommodate children with mobility difficulties. there is access to adjustable height furniture i.e. sand/water trays, or access is made possible by using floor level activities *passageways are kept clear (a health and safety issue) *areas have carpets/curtains (to reduce noise levels) * there is a separate nappy changing areapartnership – Children*children are involved in their own learning* children are encouraged to celebrate their own success and that of others * certificates/stickers are used for achievement * children are asked how they would like to be helped *children are encouraged to comment on whether they enjoy activities Partnership – Parents/Carers:*we have full and open consultation with parents/carers* parents’/carers’ concerns are recorded and acted upon* we value parent/carer expertise * parent/carer comments are included in assessment and review *we ensure parents/carers are aware of roles and responsibilities of staff e.g. by a photo display *we ensure parents/carers are made welcome in the setting *the setting/ has an ‘open door’ policy, offering informal chats as necessary and formal discussion by appointment

* information is shared with parents/carers through the use of home- setting books- daily diaries * we involve parents/carers in provision e.g. planning, implementation of strategies and targetsIf a parent would benefit from any paper work on tape, CD rom, braille etc i will do my best to meet demands. I will work with relevant professional and follow their adviceSept 2011




1.1 Child development


1.4 Health and well being



2.3 Supporting Learning2.4 key person





4.2 Active Learning

4.3 Creativity and Critical Thinking

Childminders time off (Holiday or sickness)I will always try to give at least 4 weeks notice of any annual leave I take, normally at the start of the year I plan my 4 weeks holidays , but there may be the odd day that I can not avoid taking off ( appointments , training etc) , I do always try to fit these days in with the children I mind and work with parents to get a day off on a day which is easier for a parent to get cover for. I will ring or text parents as early as possible if myself or my children are ill and mostly leave it with the parent to choose wether they continue to send there child , but if the child does come and then as a result becomes ill I will not be able to care for the child as per my sickness policy. I am not responsible for arranging childcare for any child when I am off but I will help with phone numbers of childminders I know, but this does not guarantee a space for your child. What i do and don’t provideI provide children with all drinks and snacks. I pay all entrance fees to toddler groups , but will discuss trip costs with parents these happen mostly in the school holidays and i try to avoid going lots or expensive places we tend to go farms, museums, parks and on picnics. I provide all eating utensils and cups beakers for drinks .I do not provide nappies, wipes, creams, dummies and soothers , teething gels, teething rings or comforters . Parents should bring ready made bottles of milk for babies with enough for the day and 1 spare , baby foods, bibs, a spare set of clothes, adequate food for the day in a named lunch bag and a flannel to be used and sent home everyday or hand and face wipes.

Over 8’s Childminding Policy

As an Ofsted registered Childminder I am registered to care for six children from Birth to 8 years, three children may be young children *( A child is a young child until the 1st September after their fifth birthday ) and only one child may be under one year old at any one time , though I do have variations in place due to having my own child and and for working with my assistant - my certificate explains fully the ratio of age groups.In all circumstances the total number of children being cared for must not exceed six . I am permitted to care for children from 8 years upwards - there is no specified age at which I stop caring for children but usually its around age 14 . The care I am providing for the over 8 year olds :· must not adversely affect the care of the young children in the early years age group , · Must fall within the total number of children I am insured for. I am insured through the Morton Michel to

care for a maximum of 11* children.

I am happy to mind children aged 8 years and over and will provide them with age appropriate resources and a quiet area for studying if required, however I do require that they set an excellent role model for the other children in my care, being polite, saying please and thank you etc. . I try to allow children to gain independence and do normal activities as they would being at home so allowing them to visit friends , go to after school clubs, to parties and to walk home alone etc - all these have a separate policy in place .

I would never ask an older child to care or look after another minded child. I am fully responsible for all the children whilst they are in my care . This includes my own children.

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1.3 Keeping safe






4.1 Play and exploration

.

Independent arrival at childminders policyI am happy to mind older children who are at secondary School and who wish to arrive at my home independently, however I can’t be held responsible for your child’s safety until s/he arrives into my care.

I will need to know in advance details of their anticipated times of arrival, if they are staying at school for a club, sports fixture or detention I will need to be notified. If there are any unexpected changes please let me know , ask your child to let me know by text or get the school phone me .

If I your child fails to arrive at the anticipated time, I will try to contact them on their mobile phone to confirm their whereabouts. If I am unable to make contact I will contact you for further guidance. If you are unavailable I will contact the school. In the unlikely event that I have been unable to locate your child I will contact the police for further guidance.Please give me the correct phone numbers for your child’s mobile if they have one and yourself. Please make sure my numbers mobile and landline are in your child’s phone and the school should be made aware to contact me if your child has to stay behind or is taking part in a club .

These procedures are not meant to alarm you but to reassure you that I am providing the best care possible for your child.

If you are planning for your child to arrive independently to me please let me know so we can ensure that all parties involved are fully aware of these procedures and any alterations made to them. I will require you to sign a copy of this policy to confirm your agreement of it.

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1.3 Keeping safe

3.2 Supporting every child


Outings policyPolicy Context:Outings provide an opportunity for children and adults to get to know their local environment and to share in active learning experiences which can enhance many areasof children’s learning. I am committed to working with parents/carers to ensure that these outings are conducted in a safe and co-ordinated manner and that appropriate supervision is in place at all times.his policy is linked to other policies on Behaviour, First Aid, Partnership with Parents/Carers, Medication, Missing Child , equal opportunities .Aims:· The aim of this policy is to ensure the well-being and safety of staff, parents/carers and/or children during an outing .· Upon signing a registration form parents consent to their childrens’ participation in general daily outings (walks,

trips to local parks). We either walk or take my Car. I have a valid driver’s license and business insurance on mycar. On all trips and outings the first aid kit and the childrens’ emergency info/consent cards will be brought along.

· Prior to each outing the children will be told where we are going, what the boundaries and limits are, and what to do if they find themselves lost. Children not in a stroller will either be holding the stroller or using the “buddy system”.

· If a child should become lost while on an outing, the other children will be safely cared for while looking for the missing child. If the search is unsuccessful 999 will be contacted along with the parents/guardians. A serious incident report would also be filed. I hope that such an incident would never occur, but with both preventative measures in place and procedures to follow I feel prepared.

· I will approve all places prior to a visit . Before approval is given, information is gained from the venue either by a visit or by contacting through website or over the phone to ensure that health and safety, risk assessment and operating procedures are in place. My own risk assessment would then be completed , most of the places we go we use frequently or are recommended from other childminder’s, its very rare we go to a new place

· If the outing requires vehicle transportation each child will be buckled into their own seat belt or an appropriate car seat for their weight and height. I use the currant car seat laws to determine which car seats to use and who needs to use one.

· I like to make use of the local community and regularly take children to toddler groups, library, parks etc in the

local areas .

· I have full public liability insurance with Morton Michel- and quote “ The ChildMinder policy will cover you anywhere in the UK – whilst carrying out your childminding activities.”

· Parents sign a consent form to give permission to take children on routine outings school runs, parks etc. Parents also give consent for outings further afield like zoo, theme park etc parents will always be given notice of such planned events .

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1.3 Keeping safe

1.4 health and well Being






4.2 Active learning

· I invite parents to accompany us with your child on outings.

Working with assistantsI have one registered assistant working with me Mrs Tammy Woolmer my sister .The Government has announced changes to the procedures for ensuring that all staff who work with vulnerable people are properly vetted and that people are prevented from working in jobs with vulnerable people if they are unsuitable. The scheme is known as the Vetting and Barring Scheme and changes have recently been made to the scheme to simplify it and to bring it more in line with the previous system of Criminal Record Bureau checks. Ofsted require all assistant to be cleared before allowing them to work with children.The assistant is working to support the childminder in the day to day running of the business this will include playing with children ,interacting with children, doing written observations on the children , feeding children and communicating with parents .The assistant will not :· Be left alone with children without prior written consent from Ofsted and children parents , if the assistant is alone it would be for a short time if i did a school run or in an emergency .· Take minded children to the toilet or change their nappies .· Wash and bathe minded children· Take photographs of children on their own personal phone or camera they will only use the setting camera , they will follow photography policy .· Use their personal mobile phone in the setting, , they will store it in the safe and adhere to the camera and mobile phone Policy I have put the following procedures in place for if the assistant is ever off sick or for times they are on Holiday,· If possible I will give as much notice as possible to parents and may have to ask they use my back up childminders if it would mean me being over my numbers .· My assistant is fully dedicated to my setting so sick days will be minimal but if the assistant rings in sick I may have to ask parents to take their child to Back up childminder .· I am considering registering a second assistant my Husband so if one if off I have back up .If you have any concerns, questions regarding this policy please do not hesitate to contact meAugust 2011

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1.3 Keeping safe






PhotographsDuring some activities I make use of photography.I take photographs of the children playing. These photographs are available for parents to collect and keep. Some of the photographs are kept in a learning journey. This book is always available for parents to view but remains within my premises at all times.There are some photographs in my brochure. These are pictures used to demonstrate the activities the children get to do here. At no times will photos be taken when a child is showing bare skin, ie in the paddling pool, Some photographs will be displayed around the setting .At no time are the children named. At no time will a picture of your child be on the internet .At toddler groups, wacky warehouse they have their own policy usually to gain consent before allowing photographs to be taken on my consent form I ask parents to sign to give me consent to give permission if the need arises. Any visitors , assistants will not take photos of minded children on there own personal camera or phone they will only use the setting camera under direction from myself -usually if i am involved in the activity with the child the assistant can take a photo of us together. if a parent joins us on a day trip they must only photograph their child. At no time will a child be put on a social networking site like Facebook.Advising you on your responsibilities and obligationsPhotographs are taken on the designated setting camera and transferred to the computer , they are printed and deleted or stored on a setting memory stick which is kept in the safe locked at all times.

All public and private organisations are legally obliged to protect any personal information they hold, and may be required to notify with the ICO.(The Information Commissioner’s Office ) Public authorities are also obliged to provide public access to official information. The ICO is here to help you understand these obligations and keep you updated as and when they change.I am registered with the Data Protection Act 1998.sept 2011 revised july 13th 2012

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1.3 Keeping safe




3.1 Observation, Assessment and Planning

3.2 Supporting every Child

Legal Responsibilities - A Brief Overview of Relevant Acts

We endeavour to meet the Early Years Foundation Stage welfare requirements regarding the issue of Safeguarding. It is our duty and responsibility to take all steps necessary to safeguard and promote the welfare of children whilst in our care. Over and above the provisions set out in our own policy and procedures, we are also bound by legal responsibilities in the field of equal opportunities and diversity.

We will work to fulfil the legal requirements of the Equality Act 2O10. The first set of provisions of this Act, which cover employment and the delivery of goods and services, and public functions, came into force in October 2010. The act brings together equalities duties from the last 30 years and attempts to create parity so that all of the new “protected characteristics” groups get the same levels of protection.

We recognise and welcome all legislation and existing codes of practice produced by appropriate commissions. This includes the following and all other associated legislation that remains effective and relevant:

Age Discrimination Act 2006

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 and 2005Children Act 1989 and 2004Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001Race Relations Amendment Act (RRAA) 2000The Human Rights Act (HRA) 2001Sex Discrimination Acts (SDA) 1975 and 1986Equal Pay Act 1970, 1975 and amendments 1983 (EqPA)Race Relations Act (RRA) 1976

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1.3 Keeping safe






Complaints Procedure

As a registered childminder I aim to work in close partnership with all parents, to meet the needs of their children. If there is any aspect of my service you are not happy with please bring it to my attention

What to do first :Most concerns and complaints can be dealt with by speaking to me about it . It is usually best to discuss a problem face to face as often with text or phone calls its misinterpreted wrongly and we want to make sure all the issues are dealt with calmly and correctly. I will make every effort to resolve the issue through frank and open discussion. You can put the complaint to me verbally or, if you prefer, formally in writing or by email. You may wish to call me to make an appointment later in the evening or bring a friend or relative to the appointment with you if you would like to . I will make every effort to resolve the problem. I will make sure I understand what you feel went wrong and will explain my own actions to you.Be assured that no matter what you are wanting to tell me , my support and respect for you and your child in the setting will not be affected in any way. Please tell me your concern as soon as possible it is difficult to investigate an incident or problem properly if it happened some time ago .

What happens nextIt is a condition of my registration to investigate all written complaints relating to the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage and I will notify the complainant of the outcome within 28 days of the receipt of the complaint. I will keep a written record of all complaints and their outcomes for at least Five years.

It is a requirement by Ofsted that all complaints are logged along with the outcome and any action taken. These records must be available to show an Ofsted Childcare Inspector if required. I will maintain confidentiality but will provide Ofsted, on request, with a written record of all complaints within a specified period and the action taken as a result of each complaint.

I will record the following information:

· The name of the person making the complaint.· The EYFS requirement(s) to which the complaint relates.· The nature of the complaint.· The date and time of the complaint.· Any action taken in response to the complaint.· The outcome of the complaint investigation.· Details of the information and findings that were given to the person making the complaint, including any action taken.

What to do next :If the complaint cannot be resolved or if the complaint is of a serious nature and you feel you cannot discuss it with us you should contact OFSTED The registering body for childminders , they can be contacted via telephone or in writing Complaints and Investigation Unit on 0300 123 4666.

Ofsted produces guidance on concerns and complaints about childminders and childcare providers. This is available on the Ofsted website and provides guidance on the complainant’s right to contact Ofsted.

The address to write to is :

OfstedPiccadilly GateStore StreetManchesterM1 2WD

I have a duty to inform all parents of any complaints made against me and the outcome. Parents can at any time see a copy of the report and ofsted verdict.

I welcome any feed back from parents regarding my services , Parents are asked to fill in questionnaires regularly to give me feedback and ideas to change things. I have a feedback folder which logs all comments about my care, good and bad.

If the complaint is about another child I am unable to discuss personal details about the other child but the other child’s parents will be called in for a discussion about their behaviour if required .

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1.3 Keeping safe





PaymentI ask that all parents pay in advance for the hours they have booked . Payment can be daily , weekly, fortnightly or monthly. I prefer payment in cash , I do not usually have change so the correct money is advised. A cheque will be allowed at my discretion and it must be given 7 days before the fees are due to allow it to clear before the care is given. Any refund due to my time off will be offered at the end of the month or taken off the next times fees this will be

discussed with each individual parent as to what is best for both parties. Please discuss the preferred payment at signing of contracts. I issue an invoice before the fees are due and can give a receipt after the money has been handed over if parents wish.

penalty chargespenalty charges will be issued at my discretion£3.50 for every 10 minutes past the agreed collection time plus normal hourly rate . Persistent lateness may result in termination of contracts .penalty for being late consistently dropping children off. £5 after the first half hour , please be advised we might have to go out i always try to wait half hour but if you are later we might not be here or i might not have space.

Settling In Policy

We understand how difficult it is for parents to leave their child with a childminder and return to work. We will therefore work with you to ensure your child is settled and that you are happy with the care that we are to provide. We like to organise settling in sessions for the parents and child. This gives you the opportunity to provide us with lots of information about your child, their likes and dislikes, routines, favourite activities, how to comfort them if they become upset and how they have reacted when left before. It gives us the opportunity to start to build a relationship with you and your child and to understand both your needs and wishes.

We are happy for you to stay until you feel that your child is settled. Some children do take longer than others to settle and some settle quickly and then become distressed a few weeks into the placement. We will work with you to support your child through this transition period and make it as easy as possible. It is important that you and your child are relaxed and happy in our home and with the care we provide. I ask all parents to visit as much as they can before care starts , I can visit you at your house so children see me in there own environment . I offer 2 hours free pre visit which can be 2 hours together or 2 separate 1 hour stays,These must be prior to the care starting and only on a weekday, this is so your child gets a good idea of what it will be like for them. often an older child will show a new child where things are best toys etc so i will introduce you and your child to a support child if i feel this will benefit them, I hope parents will positively reinforce this at home talking about this child and encouraging them to talk to them if they are shy of me at first. I ask parents to talk cheerfully and positively to their children about what it will be like when they are cared for by me . please tell me about things your child likes and dislikes so if child loves dolls i will set this out, i hold many social events, bowling, parties, picnics etc so please try to come along . Also i ask parents to explain fully whats happening and to say a proper goodbye when leaving children, creeping away might seem easier but can cause the child to feel let down and confused.

Some parents find it helpful to call during the day to find out how their child is. We are happy to take your calls, but we are sometimes unable to talk for long, or even to answer the telephone if we are attending to a child’s personal needs, for example changing a nappy. So please do not panic if you call and there is no answer, I will return the call as soon as possible .

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1.2 Inclusive practise

1.3 Keeping Safe

1.4 Health and well-being


2.2 Parents as partners

2.4 Key person

2.3 supporting every child


4.4 areas of learning and development - PSED

Parents responsibilitiesAs a childminder I have a responsibility for a certain amount of children while they are in my care. When bringing and collecting your own child you must also consider the other children , no swearing or aggressive behaviour will be tolerated on my premises. A parent who shows abusive or aggressive behaviour will be asked to leave and the police may be called also the contractual agreement will be terminated.

Please remember the younger children so no leaving doors open even if you are only staying a few seconds and watch out for fingers and toes etc.

Parents are asked to think about other parents bringing and collecting their children at the same time so please drive carefully into the driveway and do not block other driveways no matter how short your stay will be.

It is a parents responsibility to pay my fees on time in advance weekly or monthly parents will incur late charges and be responsible for any bank charges i incur.

Parents must refrain from using their mobile phones when in the setting or on a day trip not only does this pose a safeguarding - child protection issue it also may mean when a parent is using their phone they are not fully supervising their child.

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1.3 Keeping safe



Sun Protection PolicyThe damaging effects of exposure to the sun on young skin have recently been well documented. I will do everything I can, working in partnership with you, to ensure that your child is protected.

I will need you to provide me with:Sun Cream suitable for your child (high factor)Sun hat (preferably a legionnaires hat to protect the neck)A thin top/cardigan/tshirt with long sleeves

I will ensure that your child uses the sun cream that you have provided and wears the hat. I will also avoid spending prolonged periods of time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, and when out will try and protect your child by finding shady areas and using a sunshade on the pushchair. I will encourage your child to drink water regularly to prevent dehydration.

I will require you to sign a form giving me permission to apply the sun cream that you have provided.In the event of the children not having their own hat or sun cream I will obtain consent at the same time to give permission for me to use my own sun cream sensitive factor 50 and a spare hat.

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safe



AbsencesAbsences through illness or holidays or just occasional days off will be charged at the normal rate to secure child’s place.However if the absence is for more than 2 weeks , extended family holiday etc a retainer will be accepted to keep the child’s place open this is half the normal fee , please note the space will be available during this time is a parent needs it but i need at least 48 hours notice and full pay for any hours worked. Parents must inform me before the time they are due here preferably the night before or a few hours before the time they are due not after the time they are due , this is so i can plan the events for the day for the other children. parents might be charged a fixed penalty for not informing me of absences. All parents are entitled to 10 days unpaid holiday per year providing 4 weeks notice is given of the holidays any extra days after 10 days per year will be charged at full fee.




1.4 Health and well Being



Rules of houseBelow are some ‘Rules’ . These were developed by the children with me and are positive rules, which seem to encourage the children more.We listen to what others sayWe walk to/from school in pairsWe are all importantWe treat furniture nicelyWe eat at the tableWe are helpfulWe treat the toys nicelyWe are kind to our friendsWe walk in the houseBelow are a few rules of the house, which cover the whole house:Coats are hung up and bags and shoes are put tidy to prevent accidentsoutdoor shoes to be taken off in the hall.Hands to be washed before eating, after going to the toilet and after playing outsideToys and equipment to be packed away to prevent breakages and accidentsWe share with one anotherWe are polite and respectful to other children and adultsThe sitting room is usually for baby/toddler play, quiet time and TV




1.3 Keeping safe

1.4 Health and Well being





Out of school clubs, parties, trips to friendssometimes an older school age child might like to visit a friend or stay behind for a club,go to a swimming lesson etc , i ask that parents please discuss it first with me to make sure i can collect at the new time as often i have other children being collected. i will do my very best to let your child do “normal” activities but i must agree to it first. i can take children to parties if i have notice and good directions!!! but again this must be discussed prior to you agreeing.

meal timesPlease tell me if your child has a special diet or there are any foods that your child cannot eat for medical, religious or any other reason. I need to know this even if you have not asked me to prepare meals for your child.You can choose to provide packed or ready to eat meals. Your child may enjoy bringing his/her own lunch box and prefer more familiar foodUnlimited water , milk is provided, free of charge, throughout the day.

This is a table of common childhood illness and the action to take . If your child is ill or has been ill since the last session please inform me as soon as you can so I can help prevent it spreading.

Illness Incubation period

When can return to setting

Common cold 1-3 days when recoveredGastroenteritis 1-3 days 48 hours after last bout of sicknessTonsillitis varies when fully recoveredScarlet fever 1-3 days 48 hrs after starting antibioticsChicken pox 15- 18 days all spots are scabbed overHead lice when fully treated

Measles 10-15 days 4 days from onset of rash

Mumps 14-21 days when swelling subsided or when clinically recoveredRubella 14-21 days 5 days from appearance of rash

Whooping cough 10- 14 days 21 days from onset or paroxysmal cough, or 5 days after starting antibiotics

Conjunctivitis varies When fully recoveredVomiting and diarrhoea

A child must not return back to me until 48hrs after their last bout of sickness or diarrhoea.

Sore throat children can return when well usually after 2 daysRash- including viral rashes ,rashes with unknown causes allergic reaction

various Parents must communicate with me. children can return once all spots have completely gone. Must seek medical advice ,but it is my decision as to wether or not the child will be allowed in the setting.

Salmonella food poisoning

12- 72 hours

48 hours with no diarrhoea

Swine Flu various when medically fit to returnCough 3-7

daysMust communicate before sending child

Fever - 38.c or more

A child needs to be fever free for a minimum of 24hrs before returning to my care, without the

aid of a fever reducing substance e.g. calpol.Glandular Fever 28- 42

dayswhen clinically recovered

Hand , foot and mouth disease

3-5 days

when clinically recovered

Ring worm 4 - 10 days

When completely clear

Scabies 2 - 6 weeks

48 hours after treatment has begun

Dysentery 12 hours - 7 days

When clinically recovered

Oral thrush Various 48 hours after medication startedWorms various until fully recovered and no worms

for at least 48 hours

Terms and ConditionsOFSTED Registered Childminder:

Donna Ball - EY257267 Morton Michel Public Liability Insurance

This document sets out, in writing, the terms and conditions for parents, guardians and carers accepting a placement with the registered childminders named above. All parents, guardians and carers considering taking up a child placement must read and agree to these terms and conditions before signing a contract.

The aims of this document are:

1. To ensure that all contracts meet the standards required by the regulatory bodies, Ofsted, Leicestershire County Council and Leicestershire Safeguarding Children Board.

Ofsted is the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills. Ofsted regulate and inspect to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages.

Leicestershire County Council Family Information Services regulate childminders in the county, offer support and training and provide access to professionals if required.

Leicestershire Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) is a multi agency forum which ensures that children and young people throughout Leicestershire are kept safe and have their needs met.

2. To ensure that all childminding placements are treated equally and fairly, with regard to availability, opportunity, play and learning, and costing.

3. To ensure that all parties are aware of the legally binding nature of the contract they are entering into.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Contents

Paragraph Title1 Parental Responsibility

2 Bringing and Collecting the Child3 Retainer Fees4 Deposits5 Payment6 Settling in Period7 Date of Commencement of Full Contract8 Contracted Hours9 Sickness10 Fees and Costs11 Holidays

1. Parental Responsibility

IMPORTANT NOTICE

It is a legal requirement that the person signing the contract and any and all consent forms has parental responsibility for all children named in the contract. Also, we require a list of all those who have legal parental responsibility e.g. grandparents, step parents and other relatives (a maximum of 6 people). This helps us to ensure we meet Safeguarding guidelines and comply with the Children Act 1989.Ensure you update contact details as and when necessary .If you need to contacted on a different number through training different workplace etc please write the number in the daily diary or on a piece of paper but please also tell me in case I don’t see the message . Inform the childminder if you are running late.,

2. Bringing/Collecting the Child

At the start of the arrangement, the registered childminder must be introduced to the main parties who will be bringing/collecting the child each day and made aware in good time of any changes to the arrangement. This is particularly important if parent/guardian separate and residence or contact arrangements change. Any person not named as being authorised by the parent/guardian may not collect the child without written consent of the parent/guardian except in emergency situations. Contact details must be recorded for anyone authorised to bring/collect the child, whose contact details are not recorded on the contract.

3. Retainer Fees

A non-refundable retainer fee (usually half the normal weekly childminding rate) will be paid in circumstances where a placement is being reserved for future use. . The registered childminder’s service must be available during the retainer period if required (although adequate notice must be given when requesting this, normally 1 week), and full fee is payable whilst the place is being used. A retainer fee may only be charged when the service is available.

parents should note that formal arrangements to reserve a placement for a new baby will not be made until after the birth. This avoids the distress of having to cancel a placement following unforeseen circumstances.

if the registered childminder is not able to offer the placement as agreed under the terms of the contract, then the retainer will be returned to the in full. If the parent, carer or guardian decides not to take up the retained placement, then the retainer fee will be retained by the childminder.

4. Deposits

Reservation Deposito In cases where a registered childminder does not currently have a vacancy but expects to have a

vacancy within 12 weeks, or where the parent, carer or guardian does not wish to take up a place within 4 weeks, then it is possible to reserve the placement with a reservation deposit of £25 per child placement, payable at the time the parents, carers or guardians request to reserve the placement.

o If the childminder is not able to offer the placement as agreed, then the deposit will be returned in full. o If the parent, carer or guardian does not wish to take up the placement when it becomes available, then

the deposit will be retained by the childminder.

o Unlike a Retainer Fee, payment of a Reservation Deposit does not allow the parent, carer or guardian to use the childcare service before the specified date, because no placement actually exists at the time the deposit is paid.

5. Payment

All payments should be made in advance, due at the beginning of each childcare period, be it weekly or monthly. The parent, carer or guardian will be issued with a reminder of the amount due in advance of the due date.

we are a business and we have to meet our own overheads. Late payments may mean that we incur bank charges. Therefore, we reserve the right to make additional charges for late payments. There will be an additional charge of £5 for late payments, followed by a daily charge of 5% of the total bill due for each day the bill remains unpaid. If no payment has been made 7 days after the due date, we reserve the right to withdraw childcare provision and seek legal advice. I usually invoice parents on 25 th of the month and payment is due 5th of the following month

6. Settling in Period

4 week “settling in period” is recommended at the start of the arrangement. During this time, no notice period or notice payment will be required if either party wishes to terminate the agreement, but all other areas of the contract are applicable (i.e. outstanding childminding fees, meals, extras, etc).

in addition to this 4 week period, it is advisable to arrange with the childminder for the child to spend a short time on at least 2 occasions prior to commencing placement. This gives everyone the chance to ‘test the waters’.

7. Date of Commencement of Full Contract

the date of commencement is the first working day or, if a settling-in period is specified, the first working day after completion of the settling-in period.

8. Contracted Hours

Contracted Hours are the hours of childcare agreed between the childminder and the parent, care or guardian at the time of setting up a placement. Any childcare required outside of the Contracted Hours, or outside of normal working hours, will be charged at a higher rate than contracted hours.

The normal working hours for the childminders are:

Term Time

Monday to Friday 07:00 to 18:30Weekends 10 am - 4pm Bank holidays not worked - no fee charged

School Holiday Periods

Monday to Friday 07:00 to 18:30

No cover is offered at weekends No care is Offered weekends when the Monday is bank holidays

9. Sickness

If a child is sick and unable to take up the placement on any given day (without prior arrangement), then half fee is payable. If the childminder is sick and unable to provide cover, then no fee is payable.

10. Fees and Costs

Childminding Rates

(NB – Overnight Cover is not available)

First Child £3.35/hour perSubsequent Children £3.00/hour

Meals and Snacks Breakfast free Lunch free Tea £1.50/day per child

Pick-up and Collection £0.40/per mile school per Drop off or Pickup

These charges may be reviewed from time to time in relation to cost of living increases.Usually in January ( last fee increase 2010 )

11. Holidays

If a parent, carer or guardian is taking a holiday when childcare is normally available, They have 10 days per year free holidays if 4 weeks notice is given, all other time off a retainer of 50% of the normal fee is payable. Holidays should be notified 4 weeks in advance

If the childminder takes a holiday when childcare is normally available, then no fee is payable. The childminder holidays for the period 1st July 2012 to 31st December 2013 are:

Start of holiday children return 2012

July 16th - July 23rd

December 19th December 27th ( I am not open 31st Dec or 1st Jan )

2013

February 11th February 18th

Easter Monday following Monday .dates to confirm

July 15th July 22nd

November 28th December 2nd

December 23rd January 2nd

I hope you have found this booklet useful if you would benefit from it in another format( on cd for pc , audio tape, via email, text, large text etc) please ask i will be happy to help

you can contact me via phone 0116 2810766 7.00am -7pm, if unavailable please leave a message and i will get back to you i listen to messages every time i come in and other times just to check, i also have a missed call icon on my phone and a caller display so i will see it was you!

text/phone 07411473663 if i am driving or unavailable i will call back or text if for example i am in a library!

Please take a few minutes to read the following pages and sign and return all forms prior to your child starting.

Parental Responsibility and Legal ContactUnder the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which came into effect from September 2008, I am legally required to establish who has Parental Responsibility and Legal Contact of every child in my care.

What is Parental Responsibility?A married couple who have children together both automatically have parental responsibility. Parental responsibility continues after divorce. Mothers have parental responsibility automatically.

Where the parents are not married, the father has parental responsibility if: · His name is registered on birth certificate (after 1 December 2003).· He later marries the mother.· Both parents have signed an authorised Parental Responsibility Agreement. He obtains a Parental

Responsibility Order from the court.· He obtains a Residence Order from the court· He becomes the child’s guardian.

For more information please visit:http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/ParentsRights/DG_4002954

Legal Contact is anyone who has applied to a court for access to the child and been given legal contact rights. Please indicate below who has Parental Responsibility and Legal Contact. If there are any subsequent changes to these details please let me know immediately.

Name of Child/ren Date of Birth__________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ___________________Name of person with Parental Responsibility Relationship

_____________________________________________________ ___________________Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Name of person/s with Parental Responsibility Relationship_____________________________________________________ ___________________Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please name anyone who has been granted Legal Contact with this child:_____________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ___________________

Form completed by: _______________________________________please print name)

Signed: ______________________________________Date__________

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