Paulaschildminding

About Me

Hi, my name is Paula
I have been childminding for over 18+ years. I provide a warm and inviting home from home type setting where the children are supported in all aspects of their learning following the EYFS curriculum. It is an inviting and safe environment where they are each valued as a unique individual and the whole family is welcome. T
The children are encouraged to make as many independent choices readying them as they leave my setting and transition into school.
I ensure that I work in partnership with parents and encourage a two-way flow of communication where I give every parent regular updates on their child's progress via a daily diary and pictures. And where I encourage parents to provide their input if they wish to regard the day-to-day activities etc and share different ways or living, be it cultural or other etc.
All aspects of the EYFS areas are covered in the setting. This I ensure by providing children with a wide range of resources, activities etc.
If at any time I find your child is in need of any additional support, then I will bring this to your attention and I will help you access any additional support outside of my setting
We are a setting with small dogs which have either been brought up from a really early age in the home or birthed in the home. They are all used to being around the children and I have to say that for the most part the children love them. On the occasion a child is unkind to them, I will bring this to your attention as no form of cruelty will be tolerated in my home.
Being a parent myself I understand that leaving your child with a stranger is one of the hardest things for any parent to have to do, which is why I definitely recommend a four week settling in period, so that if the transition is difficult for your child then you or I can end the contract with not notice period but all fees payable.
All the people in the household over the age of 16 years of age have a fully enhanced CRB/DBS. I am registered with the EHO (Environmental Health Officer) to provide food and the ICO (Independent Commissioners Office) to hold your data securely for your peace of mind. I will only share your details if I am legally bound by another agency or authority.
I have Full Liability Insurance cover for the business.
I ensure that all my training is kept up to date, that of which was required by me as part of my registration regulations. I also myself embark on as much regular training as possible to ensure that I am up to date with all current changes and to continually build on my own practice, so that all the little ones have every opportunity to fulfil their full potential whilst doing the most natural thing to them playing with lots of laughter. I encourage play is child led where the child has as much choice as they like and I provide adult-led and planned activities, where the children are encouraged to join in but never forced. This builds character, resilience and independence amongst other skills they will need in life. They are encouraged to make positive choices for themselves so that they grow to be confident and productive individuals. I encourage them also to deal with differences through non physical or aggressive behaviour by being open to other people's way of thinking, opinions or views etc.
We are an all inclusive setting where we celebrate and promote as many different festivities or celebrations, that being said I will not tolerate any form of violence, racism or prejudice in any shape or joke form etc.
I ensure that your child and you their family feel they are valued in a safe space and to flourish.
I endeavour to ensure that the care I provide your child the best possible opportunities to learn whilst not forgetting to have lots of fun in a warm environment where they feel not only included and welcomed but also a valued member of my extended family.
There are no barriers to participation, I will make changes in as much as humanly possible. All I ask from you is that you are transparent and always know that you can discuss anything with me and I will listen and provide help if and where needed.
I hold a full clean driving license which I have held since 1993 with full cover insurance should I need to take your child in my car complete with appropriate safety provisions for example appropriate car seats for babies and booster seats for older children.
My setting is a home from home environment both relaxing and welcoming to all where the whole family gets involved in one way or another. All children are encouraged to explore where they have as much freedom to explore with very few restrictions in the home.
In an ever changing world I have an extensive portfolio of policies to cover no only learning goals but also areas of force majeure (uncontrollable events) etc.
Each child has their own personal items provided by me such as hair brushes, toothbrushes, eating utensils, etc. which they know belongs to them, and so they feel like they are home from home unless your wish to provide these for your child yourself.
Children will never be left eating or drinking alone where I am not able to see them. If there is anything which has not been covered in your initial meet and greet, please voice it to me, as there is so much to cover it may have been missed or even not thought about. I am always open to changes which will strengthen the services I provide, and not two families parent the same. That being said, please respect the fact there are areas I have to follow a certain way as it may be legally binding for me to do so.
I will follow any routines that you have already established with your child as much as possible and if it does not cause disruption to the other families I provide services for.
I hope that if you have chosen me as your child's carer in your absence that you will feel comfortable discussing anything with me that may affect your child in any way, such as a death in the family, a separation etc no matter what it may be please think hard before deciding not to tell me as I can support your child and even your family with advice or by reaching out for additional support.