QUALIFIED EARLY YEARS TEACHER, GRADED OUTSTANDING IN ALL AREAS!! I am an experienced childminder living in a large terraced family home in Leigham Court Drive, Leigh on Sea so approximately 12 minutes walk from Chalkwell Station. I am married to Kevin and we have two grown up children. I am a qualified teacher with 10 years infant teaching experience and also have been childminding for more than 13 years. I provide a home from home service as I believe that babies and young children are happiest when placed in a homely, loving and stimulating environment. I am a calm, patient, honest and caring person with a passion for working with babies and young children. It is my priority to keep the children I care for safe and happy and provide them with fun and exciting learning opportunities and plenty of cuddles when needed! Unlike most childminders, my service specialises in the care of babies and preschool aged children only. (Under 5's) I believe that by keeping my numbers low I can provide the best possible quality care and meet individual needs in a child led environment. We have plenty of space for children to play and have a large well resourced summerhouse in the garden which we use all year as a play area. I encourage children to learn through play and provide them with a range of resources to explore at their own pace. I give the children opportunities to become involved in creative activities including arts and crafts, construction and baking regularly. The children who come to my setting also enjoy taking part in singing and instrument playing through our fun music sessions when I play the piano to familiar songs and rhymes. We often visit local toddler groups, parks and libraries as well as the beach, Sea Life Centre and Hadleigh farm to broaden the children's experiences and give them opportunities to socialise with others. We visit a local care home regularly where the children interact with the residents and enjoy sharing stories and songs. I have an allotment nearby where the children are involved in growing their own fruit and vegetables which we the use for our meals. The food I provide is always healthy and nutritious with a range of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes. I share photographs of children during the day with individual parents and record milestones. I track development using the EYFS and share next steps with parents so we can work towards new goals for their child together. I welcome parents to come and discuss their child's progress at any time and aim to build a friendly and relaxed relationship in order to work in partnership. I have many positive references available, an OUTSTANDING inspection report and current policies for prospective parents to view. My Experience I have vast experience of working with children stretching over 30 years. I have taught at a local infant school for 10 years and have a B.Ed (Hons) degree in education. Through my teaching experience I have a clear understanding of how to equip children for school and can help children through school readiness activities. I also have over sixteen years experience as a childminder. I have had two wonderful children of my own and therefore have lots of experience through being a mum! My Qualifications I have a B.Ed(Hons) degree and hold certificates for first aid, food and hygiene, and child protection as well as many others.I am fully registered and insured. I accept government 2-4 year old childcare funding as well as workplace and government tax free payments. In my last inspection I was graded by Ofsted as Outstanding in all areas. Many positive references available on request!