Working with children

Childminders tell us that the best part of being a childminder is the relationships they have built with the children and their families. They enjoy having the flexibility to respond to children in a way that ensures they feel valued, loved and secure in their care. We think that all children should be nurtured and supported so that they reach their full potential and should be at the heart of what we do.

Personal plans are a way of ensuring that children’s needs will be planned for and considered by all adults caring for them. They are a way of sharing information both with parents and with other settings which children attend. All children must have a written personal plan which sets out how you will meet their health, welfare and safety needs. These must be in place within 28 days from when the child first started using your service.

Guidance about personal planning is available here.

Childminders are in a unique position to support children’s development and learning. Having a good understanding of how children develop will help you to plan a variety of experiences, which will meet their individual needs. There are lots of places online which will help you with ideas and guidance, including:

• The Care Inspectorate Hub

• SSSC Learning Zone •