Why choose a Registered Childminder?
There are many advantages to choosing a Registered Childminder over a larger setting such as a day nursery.
Childminders generally are permitted by Ofsted to care for no more than 6 children under the age of 8 at any one time, and only 3 of those children may be under 5yrs old. Due to these restrictions, childminders operate on a smaller scale than their day nursery counterparts; which means that they can offer more individual care, ensuring that each child’s care is tailored to their individual development needs.
Ever been to a day nursery? The first thing that you will notice is just how hectic these places are; this is just a result of scale, lots of very excited children, creating climate of hysteria. This setting is not for all children, some may find it very intimidating.
Childminders are able to tailor their day around the child, following their routine at home; children like to keep to their routine if possible. Staff turnover is generally quite high staff, making it very difficult; especially for new children, to bond and settle in to a new environment.
Maybe the reason why day nurseries are so chaotic is because they are unable to tailor their day around each individual child; practically impossible..
One of the most important areas in childcare is building a relationship with parents; communication is the key. Childminders have the time to talk to parents in confidence, giving them the opportunity to discuss any developmental concerns that a childminder is duty bound to discuss, under the EYFS guidelines.
The security aspect of childcare is essential, as child safety is paramount. In a day nursery or any other large setting this may be compromised, due to the general chaotic environment. In a childminder setting, it’s a one on one; parent and childminder.
Childminders, are running their own businesses, and as such are able to offer flexible care, in terms of childminding hour hours. These are not restricted to the opening hours of larger settings. Some childminders offer overnight emergency, holiday and weekend care.
www.charlieschildcare.co.uk is a Registered Childminder based on Kings Hill.
