As a childminder I am very happy that we now have a support group from the Stronger Practice Hub in our local area, especially promoting communication and language.
I enjoy networking with the childminding group in the Deysbrook Drop in, Library and other events. At the drop in each week, we enjoy songs and story time using the lovely resources we received through the Stronger Practice Hub. As childminders we share the resources and take turns to put the activities into practice with our minded children and share ideas with each other on how to use the resources. The insert in each bag was great so we could make sure we were able to gain the most out of the activities.
June and Tracie (Strategic childminder leads for the Stronger Practice Hub) have both been a great support over the months. As the Childminder Lead, June gave me the correct information and guidance with Ofsted and polices to support my practice further as a childminder. Tracie was able to support me in her DfE Mentor role for my next inspection. My confidence was low after my last inspection but June and Tracie encouraged me to lead story sessions which made me feel more confident in my ability to show how good I am at my job which helped me have a positive inspection which I was very grateful for. This also allowed me the confidence to join a Local Authority Working group.
Having June as a contact and then being part of the WhatsApp group has been great as there is so much support from everyone and the Hub also helps with training needs on childminder related issues e.g. children’s behaviour and emotions. I am also able to share my outdoor and gardening experience events with other childminders.
Having easy access to a Wellcomm Bag has been invaluable as this has saved me time travelling to my nearest Children’s Centre to book a bag out, plus I do not have to rush to return the pack. I tell people I have a pack so I can share and I promote the Hub all the time.
Other Reading to supplement my knowledge:
https://child-development-training.education.gov.uk/about/module-4
https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/early-years/evidence-store/communication-and-language
https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/early-years/evidence-store/early-literacy
https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/early-years/high-quality-interactions
Julie Ellis
Ofsted Registered Childminder
Liverpool