FAQ

Why choose a childminder?
Registered childminders offer flexible home-based childcare in a family environment rather than the more institutional environment of a nursery. I only cater for very small number of children which means each child will receive individual care and attention. This is something that a nursery cannot hope to achieve.

When can I visit your home to see your setting?
I recommend that you contact me and arrange a visit before registering or joining the waiting list. Appointments must be made in advance in order to make disruptions to the childrens routine as minimal as possible.

I can arrange visits at anytime that suits you best; even out of normal working hours.


Are you fully insured?
I am a member of the NCMA and hold my public liability insurance through them.
I hold a full clean driving licence and I am insured for business use. All children travelling on my car are in appropriate child seats.

How do I register my child?
Once you have made a visit and decided that you would like to register you will need to complete the online registration form and together with the relevant deposit confirm the days you require.


Do you charge to be placed on the waiting list?
No, there is no charge to be placed on the waiting list.


What other charges are there?
None. There is no charge for occasionally dropping children early or picking up a bit later. There are even no charges for meals and snacks.


How often do the children go outdoors?
I have a large secure garden and patio area so encourage children to go outside at least once a day (weather permitting). Fresh air, natural daylight and outdoor play are essential for babies and children of all ages. It gives them the opportunity to play in larger areas, thus encouraging physical development and natural daylight is a vital source of essential vitamins needed for healthy skin and bones.

Children visit the local park, library, fire station, local shops, garden centre and points of interest at least once a week.


What if my child does not settle?
Every child is an individual and will therefore settle into a new environment at their own pace. I have found that within a week most children will have settled. However, if you feel that you need more time or more sessions, this can be planned on an individual basis.
You need to give children at least three months after their settling in period, before making any judgements regarding their progress. If after this time period you feel that your child is not settling, alternative routines can be discussed and adjustments made.


What about holidays?
I am closed for the week between Christmas and the New Year. Apart from that, I have three weeks holiday during the summer term.
 

What will my child eat for meals and snacks?
All children are given breakfast, snack, lunch and tea whilst they are with me. Breakfast is served between 7:45 and 8:15 and is a variety of healthy cereals, wholemeal toast and a selection of spreads. Morning snack is either fresh fruit or vegetables and is served at 10:30. Lunch is freshly prepared on the premises by myself and is served at 11.45. I only cook vegetarian dishes and is a culinary delight that the children will enjoy. A light tea is served at 15:30 and this is usually finger foods e.g. stuffed pitas, sandwiches, soup and toast, bagels etc.
 

Have Ofsted inspected you?
Yes, Ofsted have inspected my setting before they approved my registration. I am due for another inspection in the next six months.
 

Is there a discount for siblings?
If you have more than one child under my care at the same time, each additional child is entitled to a substantial discount. We can discuss the fees before the contract is signed.

Find out more about me or see why you should choose me for your childcare requirements.