Why your child is important to me?

From babies to children I offer a service on both of the Ofsted child minding registers. I like to gage an understanding of where you as the parents believe your child is at before they start with me. This helps in assessing their development and milestones through learning through play. I use a range of observations, structured and non-structured play to help support the children in my care with their development. Parents can expect termly updates and are welcome to discuss how they feel their child is progressing in my care.

For the younger children from birth to 5 years old you can expect specific activities planned for them. Each week will be themed and the specific EYFS areas will be covered through scaffolded learning according to their age. From babies to toddlers the aim will be to support independence through the milestones. Working with parents together with weaning, feeding using cutlery and potty training will be key and there are policies which break down the support I can give. You can expect a two year review for your child if they are with me prior to turning two. I will also compile an evidence folder of activities and targets they have met in my care.

The EYFS areas will covered through separate activities. I would use the Montessori approach in which the cycle of activity would be modelled and then the child would be left to explore and investigate independently. There will also be daily group music and singing sessions again themed to the week. I have a designated sheltered out door area for the children. 

In order to support children transitioning into nursery I will also plan practical life activities using the Montessori approach. Each activity will have a control of error to show the child where they may have gone wrong but also for them to learn to focus on the process and not rush to the end result. This shall encourage high self-esteem and independence as children will learn to correct themselves rather than being corrected. 

Familiar aspects of the nursery environment like visual timetables and music cues will be used throughout the day, as well as story time and group carpet time. 

I also offer Maths and English support for those children in Key stage 1 and 2 who would be in the after school sessions. I would use information from the parents and also ask the child where they feel they need more support. Mini Maths and English booster sessions will be planned using their school year groups curriculum map for the term. My aim here will be to boost the individual child’s confidence and to go over their previous learning so that when they are at school they feel more independent with their learning. The resources and teaching methods used will be those familiar to your child from school. I would also encourage the children to self-assess their learning and understanding so that they have more of an input in their support. 

I understand how tired children are after school and just want to switch off and relax when they have finished. They will be given time to unwind and have snacks and juice before they do any work.