A special leaflet produced by Ofsted is throwing the spotlight on outstanding childminding practice. 'Childminding: a passion to be outstanding' is being distributed to all registered childminders with a view to encouraging them to aim for the top.
The leaflet outlines the key aspects of best practice that inspectors have seen so far under the EYFS. Inspectors have judged 9 per cent of childminders to offer outstanding provision, while 55 per cent were judged good, 30 per cent satisfactory and 5 per cent inadequate (covering September 2008 to June 2009).
AREAS OUTLINED IN THE GUIDE
- Parents and carers
Strong links with parents are achieved through finding out about family life and understanding this as a context for the child, treating parents as part of the team and recognising that they are the first experts on their child, and encouraging them to observe their child at play in the home and use this to develop their learning.
- Reflective practice
Outstanding childminders find undertaking regular reviews of what they do and how they do it is crucial. One childminder says, 'We want to change and develop ideas, but also look at what has worked and revisit it to find out why.'
- Keeping children safe
This includes risk assessments and taking clear policy steps to ensure that children are safeguarded from harm or abuse. Childminders need to have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the signs of possible abuse or neglect, and undertake training in this area.
- Diversity and inclusion
Childminders are well-placed to provide excellent inclusive practice by working closely with parents and providing tailored activities and resources. Attending regular training in specialist areas such as SEN is deemed valuable.
- Learning and development
The best childminders organise their homes so that each child can make independent choices and extend their play and learning; make good use of indoor and outdoor areas; help children feel confident to explore; provide a range of resources and evaluate children's progress.
- Observing, assessing and planning for learning
This includes having an excellent understanding of the six areas of learning and how to use the EYFS Practice Guidance to support children's development. One childminder notes, 'I assess each new child carefully and talk with their parents and other childcarer so that I know what they can achieve. By talking, listening and playing with the children I am able to learn about their individual interests and learning styles'.
- Continuous improvement
Outstanding childminders attend regular training to gain qualifications, maximise resources and services provided by local networks, use the Ofsted SEF and obtain the views of parents. All of these contribute to ongoing improvements.