Thinking About Childcare and Early Education Leaflet

What financial help is available What childcare providers offer What to look for in a chilcare provider

The different types of childcare

Making Surrey a better place

www.surreycc.gov.uk

Thinking about childcare and early education

The Early Years Foundation Stage 04

Childcare for children with a special educational need or disability (SEND) 06

Free Early Education for Two year olds (FEET) 08

Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds 10

Paying for childcare 12

SNAPSHOT Childcare on non-domestic premises 14

A parents view day nursery 16

SNAPSHOT Home-based childcare 18

A parents view childminder 20

SNAPSHOT Out of school childcare 22

A parents view holiday playscheme 24

Interviewing and visiting a childcare provider 26

Quality assured childcare 28

Childcare checklist for non-domestic childcare 29

Childminder checklist 30

Childcare with your family 31

Early learning with your child 32

Sure Start Childrens Centres in Surrey 34

Other resources from Surrey Family Information Service 34

Contents Page

Were a free and impartial information service for families with children aged 0 to 19 (up to 25 for young people with a disability or special educational need).

Search for childcare in your area using our childcare finder www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarefinder

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t 0300 200 1004 w www.surreycc.gov.uk/fise [email protected]

Whether youre returning to work, extending your working hours or you just want to prepare your child for school, there are a number of childcare options to meet your needs. Finding, choosing and paying for childcare can be both challenging and confusing, so weve created this booklet to make the process as easy for you as possible.

It contains information and advice to help you make the choices that are best for you and your child. The booklet also includes links to where you can find more information about the subjects covered as well as contact details for other services and organisations.

Welcome to Thinking about childcare and early education

The Early Years Foundation Stage

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is a document for early years childcare providers to help them support childrens learning and development from birth to five years old. It sets out what all Ofsted registered early years childcare providers must do.

The EYFS promotes teaching and learning to make sure that all children have the skills to get them ready to progress through school and future life.

At this stage children learn best through practical activities and play. This will continue through the reception year at school. The EYFS is broken down in to three prime areas and four specific areas.

Three prime areas: Personal,socialandemotional

development Communicationandlanguage Physicaldevelopment.

Four specific areas: Readingandwriting Maths Understandingtheworld Expressiveartsanddesign.

When your child starts with an early years childcare provider they will be given a key person who will make sure that their learning and care is tailored to meet their individual needs.

Thekeypersonwilllook,listenandnotehow your child plays and build on this by planning a challenging environment to support your childs development. You can share what you see your child doing at home with their key person and they can give you ideas on what you can do at home with your child.

Progress checksYour child will have their first progress check when theyre two years old after which your childcare provider should give you a short written statement that tells you how your child is getting on.

If your child goes to more than one childcare provider the check should be done by the one where your child has spent the most time.

ChildrencontinuetofollowtheEYFSinreception year at school. Different schools will have different ways of assessing your childs progress. Some may keep a learning journey detailing what your child has been doing and what they have achieved,othersmightwriteareportatthe end of each term or year.

Go to www.foundationyears.org.uk to find out more about the Early Years Foundation Stage and the progress checks.

English as an additional languageIts really important that your childcare provider helps your child develop and learn English. If English isnt your childs firstlanguage,theymustgivethemtheopportunity to use their home language when they play and learn.

Your childcare provider should also help you understand the best way to help your childs language development at home.

Childcareprovidersaretheretohelpyour child learn and develop as well as look after them. Speak to your childcare provider if youre worried about any aspect of their progress or the time they spend there.

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Childcare for children with a special educational need or disability (SEND)

In 2014 new legislation will change the way families with a child with SEND are supported. Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/sendchanges to learn more about the changes.

Childcare providers cannot discriminate against a child who has a special educational need or disability and must do their best to meet the needs of all children in their care. If your child has a disability or a special educationalneed,childcareprovidersmust make reasonable adjustments to make sure that theyre not being treated less favourably. That could mean installing a ramp to help your child move aroundeasilyiftheyuseawheelchair,ormaybe training their staff so that they can use special equipment needed for yourchild,suchasahoistorlift.

Some childcare providers will have a special educational needs coordinator (SENCO)intheirteam.YoullbeabletotalktotheSENCOaboutwhatyourchildneeds and any concerns you may have.

Ifyourchildneedsspecialistfacilities,stafforextraassistancesothatthey cangotothatprovider,thenthechildcare provider can apply to Surrey EarlyYearsandChildcareServicetogetextrafunding.

Whenyourevisitingachildcareprovider,youllprobablyhaveyourownquestions,but you might find our suggestions below a helpful starting point:

Whatqualificationsandtrainingdothestaff have and will these be suitable for my childs needs?

Ifmychildneedsextrahelporsupport,would the staff be able to help and if so can you or a health professional show them what they need to do?

Isthebuildingeasytogetin,outandmove around in for my child? Will it need any changes to make it easier for them?

Whatequipmentwillbeessentialin order for my child to go to the provider?

Areyourstaffhappytobeshownhowto give my child medicine? Do you have suitable insurance?

Ifmychildhastherapyormedicalappointmentsthattheymustgoto,willyoubeabletotakethem,iftheappointments are when my child is with you?

Helping you with childcare costsIf you receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA)foryourchildyoucanalsousethe care element to help pay for your childcarecosts,whichcanbebetween21.55 and 81.30 per week depending on the rate you are entitled to.

Go to www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children to find out more about DLA.

There are other ways in which you can get help with your childcare costs. We have included these in this booklet. See Free EarlyEducationforTwoyearolds(FEET)(page8),FreeEarlyEducationfor3and4yearolds(page10),childcarevouchers(page12),WorkingTaxCredits(page13).

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Free Early Education for Two year olds (FEET)Free Early Education for Two year olds (FEET) is a government scheme that funds children who meet the criteria to get 15 hours of free childcare per week.

How do I know if my child is eligible?Details about eligibility and the application process are available on our website www.surreycc.gov.uk/feet or you can call us on 0300 200 1004. If your child does not meet the criteria they may still be eligible for funding if a professional involved with your family thinks they have a significant need.

Where can I get the free hours?Any childcare provider registered on the Surrey directory of early years providers can offer the free hours including:academieschildminderswithanOfstedinspection

of outstanding or gooddaynurseriesindependentschoolsmaintainednurseryschoolsandclassesplaygroupspre-schools.

When will my child get their funding?You can apply for FEET in the term before yourchildbecomestwo,buttheywontreceive the free hours until the term after their second birthday. Youll then be able to get the funding until the term after yourchildsthirdbirthday,whentheyllbeeligible for Free Early Education for 3 and 4yearolds(seepage10).

Can I claim FEET at more than one childcare provider?Yes,youcanchoosetotakeupthefreehours with more than one childcare provider if you prefer.

If you choose to take up the full offer of free hours with one childcare provider andtakeupextrahourswithanotherchildcareprovider,youwillbechargedforalltheseextrahours.

When can my child use the free hours?Childcareproviderscanchoosethe timeswhentheyofferthefreehours,sotalk to them first to make sure that the time you use is free.

However you wont be able to have:morethan10hoursinoneday lessthan2.5hoursinoneday anytimebefore7amorafter7pm.

Do I need to pay anything towards this free place?No,yourchildcareprovidershouldntcharge you for any of this time as it is an offer of a free place rather than a subsidy towards your fees. However they can settheirownratesforanyextratimeor services that you take and should let you know in advance what you will be expectedtopay.

How do I find a childcare provider offering FEET?

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarefinder, call 0300 200 1004 or email [email protected] for detailsofOfstedregisteredchildcareproviders who offer FEET in your local area.

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Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year oldsEvery three and four year old child in England can get 15 hours of free early education a week for up to 38 weeks a year. This provides children with an opportunity to learn and develop in a safe environment outside of the home as well as help them prepare for school.

Where can I get the free hours?Any childcare provider registered on the Surrey directory of early years providers can offer the free hours including: academies childminderswithanOfstedinspection

of outstanding or good daynurseries independentschools maintainednurseryschoolsandclasses playgroups pre-schools.

When will my child be eligible for Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds?Childrenwillbeabletogetfreeearlyeducation from the term after their third birthday. They will continue to get the free hours until they either start in a reception class at a local authority school or the term after their fifth birthday (statutoryschoolage).

How do I claim Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds?ChildcareprovidersregisteredontheSurrey directory of early years providers will claim on your behalf.

Can I claim Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds at more than one childcare provider?Yes,youcanchoosetotakeupthefreehours with more than one childcare provider if you prefer.

If you choose to take up the full offer of free hours with one childcare provider and take up more hours with another childcareprovider,youwillbechargedforalltheseextrahours.

When can my child use the free hours?Childcareproviderscanchoosethe times when they offer the free hours so talk to them first to make sure that the time you use is free. However you wont be able to have: morethan10hoursinoneday lessthan2.5hoursinoneday anytimebefore7amorafter7pm.

Do I need to pay anything towards this free place?No,yourchildcareprovidershouldntcharge you for any of this time as it is an offer of a free place rather than a subsidy towards your fees. However they can settheirownratesforanyextratimeor services that you take and should let you know in advance what you will be expectedtopay.

How do I find a childcare provider offering Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds?

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarefinder,call0300 200 1004 or email [email protected] for detailsofOfstedregisteredchildcarerswho offer Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds in your local area.

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Paying for childcareChildcare voucher schemesSome employers choose to be part of a childcare voucher scheme to help employees with childcare costs. These schemes save you money as you wont havetopaytaxornationalinsurancecontributions on some of your salary. Government schemes such as this are often called salary sacrifice.

You can only use the vouchers to pay for Ofstedregisteredchildcareincludingchildminders,daynurseries,pre-schools,breakfastclubs,afterschoolclubs,outof school activity clubs and holiday playschemes. You will need to check with them that they are happy to accept childcare vouchers and if the voucher doesnt cover the full cost of the childcare agreehowyouwillpaytheextracost.

The value of childcare vouchers will depend on your tax rate:

basic rate tax payers -55perweekor243 per month

higher rate tax payers -28perweekor124 per month (55 per week or 243 per month if you joined a scheme on or before5April2011)

additional rate tax payers-25perweek or 110 per month (55 per week or 243 per month if you joined a schemeonorbefore5April2011).

Receivingchildcarevouchersfromyouremployer can affect your entitlement to WorkingTaxCredit.

Go to www.hmrc.gov.uk and search for the better off calculator to find out whether youd be better off receiving the vouchers or claiming for help with childcarecoststhroughtaxcredits.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarevouchers to see if youre eligible.

Claiming childcare vouchers during maternity leaveYou can join a voucher scheme anytime whilst on maternity leave and save the vouchers towards future childcare costs. You do not have to wait until you return to work. If you receive childcare vouchers asasalarysacrifice,youremployercannotdeduct the amount of the vouchers from yourStatutoryMaternityPay(SMP)theymustpaySMPinfullfor39weeks.

Ifyouareentitledtoextra(contractual)maternitypay,youremployercancontinue to apply the agreed salary sacrificeduringmaternityleave-check your contract or salary sacrifice agreement. Even if you dont have any salarytosacrifice,youremployershouldstill continue to give you childcare vouchers.Ifthisisthecase,youremployer is responsible for the cost of the vouchers.

Go to www.familyandchildcaretrust.org/help-with-childcare-costs-during-maternity-leave to find out more about childcare costs during maternity leave.

Childcare element of Working Tax CreditThis is aimed at helping working parents cover childcare costs. Working parents can claim up to 70% of their childcare costs,uptoamaximumof122.50(70%of175)perweekforonechildand210(70%of300)fortwoormorechildren.Any costs that you pay above these amounts are not used in the calculation.

The childcare must be registered with Ofstedandcanincludechildminders,daynurseries,pre-schools,breakfastclubs,afterschoolclubs,outofschoolactivityclubs and holiday playschemes.

If you are receiving childcare vouchers from your employer it can affect your entitlementtotaxcredits.Byreducingyour salary you may be entitled to a higherelementoftheWorkingTaxCreditbut this could reduce your entitlement to the childcare element of the credit.

Go to www.hmrc.gov.uk and search for the better off calculator to see if youd be better off receiving the vouchers or claiming for help with childcare costs throughtaxcredits.

How can I claim Working Tax Credits?AlthoughtheHMRCadministertaxcredits,theyarenottaxallowancesandyou have to claim them.

Go to www.gov.uk/tax-credits-calculator and find out if you are eligible by using theonlinetaxcreditcalculator.

Ifyouarealreadyclaimingtaxcreditsandyourcircumstanceschange,makesureyoutellHMRCasitcouldaffecttheamountoftaxcredityoureceive.

Go to www.hmrc.gov.uk/taxcredits orcalltheHMRCTaxCreditHelplineon 0345 300 3900 for more information abouttaxcredits.

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Are they registered by Ofsted? Yes the certificate will be on display and you will be able tofindthemontheOfstedwebsite.

Yes the certificate will be on display and you will be abletofindthemontheOfstedwebsite.

Yes,throughtheschool.

Can they offer Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds, or Free Early Education for Two year olds (FEET)?

IftheyareregisteredwithSurreyCountyCouncilontheDirectoryofProviders,theycanprovideFreeEarlyEducation for 3 and 4 year olds. If they meet the Surrey CountyCounciltermsandconditionstheycanprovideFreeEarlyEducationforTwoyearolds(FEET).

IftheyareregisteredwithSurreyCountyCouncilontheDirectoryofProviders,theycanprovideFreeEarlyEducation for 3 and 4 year olds. If they meet the Surrey CountyCouncilTermsandConditionstheycanprovideFreeEarlyEducationforTwoyearolds(FEET).

They can provide Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds and some provide Free Early Education for Two year olds(FEET).

Will they have an enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check?

Yes,allstaffshouldhaveanenhancedDBScheck. Yes,allstaffshouldhaveanenhancedDBScheck. Yes,allstaffshouldhaveanenhancedDBScheck.

Do they have training?

Yes,allsupervisorsandmanagersmustholdfullrelevantlevel 3 qualifications and half of all the other staff must hold a minimum of a level 2 qualification. Someone within the setting must attend a child protection training course and take lead responsibility for safeguarding children. At least one person must have a current paediatric first aid certificate and all staff involved in preparing and handling food must receive training in food hygiene.

Yes,allsupervisorsandmanagersmustholdfullrelevant level 3 qualifications and half of all the other staff must hold a minimum of a level 2 qualification. Someone within the setting must attend a child protection training course and take lead responsibility for safeguarding children. At least one person must have a current paediatric first aid certificate and all staff involved in preparing and handling food must receive training in food hygiene.

Yes,aqualifiedteacherandalevel3qualifiedmemberof staff for a 26 place maintained nursery. Someone within the setting must attend a child protection training course. At least one person must have a current paediatric first aid certificate and all staff involved in preparing and handling food must receive training in food hygiene.

Where is the childcare?

InanOfstedregisteredbuilding.Thepremisesandequipment must meet the needs of the children. There mustbeaccesstoanoutdoorplayarea,orifthatisnotpossible,outdooractivitiesshouldbeplannedandtakendaily.

InanOfstedregisteredbuilding.Avarietyofvenuesranging from a community building to one that is purposebuilt,normallywithaccesstoanoutsidearea.

Normally within school grounds.

Who runs them?Varies from large chains to family run or day care in childrens centres.

Pre-schoolsvaryfrombeingrunbyacommitteetoaprivate business.

Dependsontheschoolssetup,normallytheschoolisunder the contract of the local authority.

How old are the children they look after? 0 5 year olds. Normally2-5yearolds. Normally3and4yearolds,somehave2yearolds.

What is the average fee?

Feescanbechargedatadaily,sessionalandsometimeshourlyrate.Costsperdaycanbeintheregionof40-70.Fees are set by the individual nursery.

Feescanbechargedasaschoolday,sessionalandsometimeshourlyrate.Costsformorningorafternoonsessionscanbeintheregionof8-16.Feesaresetbytheindividualpre-school/playgroup.

Generallythereisnofeefor3and4yearolds,buttheymaychargeforextendedservicessuchasafterschooland breakfast clubs.

Can I use the childcare element of Working Tax Credits to pay them?

Yes,aslongastheyareregisteredwithOfsted. Yes,aslongastheyareregisteredwithOfsted. Yes,aslongastheyareregisteredwithOfsted.

Can I use childcare vouchers?Yes,aslongastheyareregisteredwithOfstedand willingto,orareregisteredwiththecompanythatissuethe vouchers.

Yes,aslongastheyareregisteredwithOfstedandwillingto,orareregisteredwiththecompanythatissue the vouchers.

Yes,aslongastheyareregisteredwithOfstedandwillingto,orareregisteredwiththecompanythatissuethe vouchers.

When are they open?Itvaries,dependingonregistration.Couldbe8am6pm,check with the individual nursery.

Varies,dependingonregistration.Couldbe 8.45am3.30pm,somerunmorningsorafternoons.

Checkwiththeindividualmaintainednursery.

What is the ratio of staff to children?Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarechoices for up-to-datefiguresontheratioofstafftochildrenandforinformation on the qualifications staff must have.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarechoices for up-to-datefiguresontheratioofstafftochildrenandfor information on the qualifications staff must have.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarechoices for up-to-datefiguresontheratioofstafftochildrenandforinformation on the qualifications staff must have.

What questions should I be asking and where can I find more information?

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/choosingchildcare for more informationortakealookatthechildcaretear-outchecklist on page 29.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/choosingchildcare for more information or take a look at the childcare tear-outchecklistonpage29.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/choosingchildcare for more informationortakealookatthechildcaretear-outchecklist on page 29.

Maintained nurseryPre-school/playgroup Day nurseryQuestions

Childcare on non-domestic premises

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Parents view nursery

Sarah, William and JacobSarah is mum to William aged seven and Jacob aged four. She talks about her choice of childcare for her sons.

When William was 18 months old I decided to send him to nursery. Id just set up my own business and discovered I was pregnant with Jacob, so it was all happening. I knew I wanted somewhere with a community feel, where William would feel secure and happy and where they would prepare him for the transition into school.

The first time I came across the nursery was when Id been to a music group in thevillagehallnextdoor,andIdecidedto pop in and chat to the manager. She arranged for me to come back and take a look round during a morning session. At the session she was able to show me how the morning was structured and what facilities they had. She showed me photos of what the children had been doing and I could see that the children were happy and the environment was really good. The fact that the nursery is set in the country so the children can go on little walks nearby,isanaddedbonus.

Id already seen a couple of nurseries thatwereclosetowherewelived,butfelt that the local community nursery had everything I was looking for. It was in a purpose built building with great facilities. The garden had a vegetable patch,climbingframes,outdoortoysandeven chickens!

I put Williams name down and he started intheOctober.AtfirstIstayedwithhim,sohecouldsettlein,butbythethirdsession it was clear he was happy and so I was sure it was the right time to let himstayonhisown.Besides,Iwasalwaysconfidentthatiftherewasaproblem,thestaff would let me know. Sometimes if I wasworriedhewasalittleupset,Iwouldwaitinthecarparkforafewminutes,until I was sure he had settled.

When William first started at the community nursery he only went on a ThursdayandFriday,butafterawhileweincreasedthistoincludeaWednesday,withhim staying for the lunch sessions too.

William eventually left and went on to school and when it came time for me todecideonchildcareforJacob,Ididnthesitate in choosing the community nursery again.

Jacob is really happy here, he loves it. I think the learning, creativity and care he gets provides him with everything he needs at a pre-school age. Jacob goes along four times a week and has settled well. He really enjoys it and has made lots of friends there.

We never miss out on what hes been up to and get a regular newsletter from the nursery,whichtellsuswhatthechildrenhave been doing. Were also encouraged togetinvolved,forinstanceoneweekthethememightbefood,soinsteadofbringing in separate snacks well be asked to bring in fruit so that the children can make smoothies and fruit kebabs.

Theydidagreatactivitylastterm,Creativeshootswherethechildrenwerefree to use their imagination when faced withahallfullofcardboardboxes.Jacobcame up with the idea of making a rocket andahorseoutofsomeboxes.

Jacob has a dedicated member of staff,calledakeyworkerwhoIcanspeak to at the end of the session if I want. The nursery has also given me a communication book which I use to write about any current interests he has or anything special that he has done at home. This book makes it easier for the nursery staff to communicate with the childrenwhenitcomestotheirpersonal,social,emotional,orspeechandlanguagedevelopment and as Jacob has some speech problems due to his hearing this can be invaluable.

This community nursery is really welcoming with a friendly atmosphere. The staff clearly care and theres thoughtfulness of how things are set up. Jacob gets close attention and support and hes really grown in confidence since he started there.

Photo:BecciKenning~ArtinTransit16 17

Snapshot home-based childcareAu pairNanniesChildminder

Are they registered by Ofsted?

Yes,iftheylookafteroneormorechildrentowhomthey are not related on domestic premises for reward formorethantwohoursaday,thentheymustregisterwithOfsted.

Not all nannies are registered. To be a registered nanny they will need to apply to be on the voluntary part of theOfstedChildcareRegister.

No.

Can they offer Free Early Education for 3 and 4 year olds, or Free Early Education for Two year olds (FEET)?

You may be able to claim your free early education for 3 and4yearoldsthroughOfstedregisteredchildminders.Youll need to speak to the childminder in the first instance to see if they meet the requirements and are happy to claim the funding on your behalf. Depending on your family circumstances you may also be eligible toclaimFreeEarlyEducationforTwoyearolds(FEET)throughOfstedregisteredchildmindersaswell.

No. No.

Will they have an enhanced DisclosureBarring Service (DBS) check?

Yes,allregisteredchildmindersneedanenhancedDBScheck.Alladultsaged16yearsandover,livingintheirhousewillalsoneedanenhancedDBScheckandthey must have public liability insurance.

AnannyagencywillusuallydoanenhancedDBScheckforanunregisterednanny.OfstedwilldoanenhancedDBScheckiftheyareonthevoluntarypartofthechildcare register.

Maybe,butitsuptotheparenttoaskwhethertheiraupairhasanenhancedDBScheck.Aupairsare usually from overseas so they will need to be checked in their own country too.


Yes,allregisteredchildmindersneedtocompleteacertifiedChildmindingIntroductoryProgramme.Theyalso need paediatric first aid training.

Registerednanniesmusthavesuccessfullycompleteda qualification at a minimum of level 2 in an area of workrelevanttochildcare,ortraininginthecoreskillsas set out in the document common core of skills and knowledgeforthechildrensworkforce,apaediatricfirst aid certificate and public liability insurance. Unregisterednanniesmayhavebasictrainingbuttheyarent required to have public liability insurance.

Notnecessarily,aupairsarenotusuallytrainedtowork with children.

Where is the childcare?In the childminders home. Inthechildsfamilyhome.Theycanlive-inorcometo

your home on a daily basis.An au pair is entitled to free board and lodging at your home.

Who are they employed by?Selfemployed,theydecideontheirworkinghours,some work with registered assistants or other registered childminders in one premises.

Parentornannyagency. The parent.

How old are the children they look after?

Anyage.Theycanlookafteruptosixchildren under the age of eight. Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarechoices to get the most up-to-dateinformationaboutchildratios.

Anyage.Aregisterednannycancareforamaximumnumberofchildrenwhichtheirinsuranceallows,inmostcasesthismustnotbeformorethansixchildrenaged0-17years.

Any age. An au pairs duties include childcare and light housework. Au pairs are not trained childcarers and must not have sole charge of children under the age of two for long periods.

What is the average fee?4.50 per hour. 250-400perweek.Youwillberesponsiblefor

payingtheirtaxandNationalInsurance.Anaupairnormallygetsapprox70-85perweek.


Yes,butthechildmindermustberegisteredwithOfsted. OnlyifyouemployanannywhoisregisteredonthevoluntarypartoftheOfstedChildcareRegister.

No.

Can I use childcare vouchers?Yes,butthechildmindermustberegisteredwithOfsted. Onlyifyouemployanannywhoisregisteredonthe

voluntarypartoftheOfstedChildcareRegister.No.

What hours do they work?Theyofferfullandpart-timehours,beforeandafterschoolcareandschoolholidaycover.Mostareflexible,theymayalsoworkevenings,weekendsorovernight.

Youneedtoagreethisbetweenyou.Mostnanniesareflexibletoyourneeds,theycanfitaroundunusualworking hours.

25 30 hours per week. These hours can be spread over five days with two days off per week.


Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/choosingchildcare and see thechildmindertear-outchecklistonpage30.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/choosingchildcare for more informationaboutnannies.Remembertoalwaysasktoseeproofofidentity,references,afullemploymenthistory,qualificationsandtheirenhancedDBScheck.

Go to www.bapaa.org.uk for more information about au pairs.

Questions

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Parents view home-based childcare

Vicky and Oliver Vicky talks to us about the childcare she chose for her son Oliver.

I returned to work when Oliver was seven months old. After looking around at different types of childcare, I decided to use a childminder. Because Oliver was so young I only wanted one person to have sole care for him while I was working. It was important that he would be taken out and about and be in a home environment with just a few other children.

IvisitedLisa,achildmindernearmyworkplace,withmylistofquestionsandthingsthatwereimportanttoOliverandme. I immediately felt comfortable in her home. She showed me around and I met the other children that she looked after and Lisas school aged daughter. Herhousewascleanandtidy,averycalmenvironment,theotherchildrenseemedfriendlyandIthoughtOliverwouldfitinreally well.

We sat down together to work out a contract. Lisa asked to be paid an hourly rate and she was happy to be paid with childcare vouchers. She asked me to supplyOliversweaningfood,milk,nappiesandwipes.WhenOliverwasoldenoughtoeatthemealssheprepared,Iwouldpayherabitextratocoverhisfood.

Lisa takes about four weeks holiday a year,andIdontpayherthen.WhenImon holiday I pay half her hourly rate. Lisa gives me plenty of notice of her holiday dates so I can arrange to take mine at the sametime,whichsavesmemoney.

IdontpayLisawhenshesoffsick,whichhardlyeverhappens.ButifOliveristooillto go to her then I pay her for those days.

IdropOliveroffat8am.Sometimes,ifheshadalie-in(luckyhim!)hellhavehisbreakfastthere.Oliversdaystartswiththeschoolrun,thenontohisregularmorning activities. They may go to toddlergroup,softplay,thelibraryorthepark.Onspecialoccasionstheyllvisittheseaside or a farm.

Then its back home to sit around the tableforahotlunch.Afterlunch,theyounger children sleep while the older children play games or get creative. They collect Lisas daughter from school then returnhomeforsomequietactivities,storytimeortowatchabitofTV.Olivereats tea before I collect him.

At the end of each day Lisa lets me know how Oliver has been, how hes eaten and what hes done. She keeps a detailed record of Olivers day in his daily diary.

Oliverisnowthreeyearsold.Henowgoesto playgroup and Lisa collects him and brings him home for his lunch. His day is exactlyasitwouldbeifhewereathomeand he and Lisa have a very special bond.

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Snapshot out of school childcare

Holiday playschemesAfter school clubsBreakfast clubs

Are they registered by Ofsted? There are different types of registration dependant on age range and type of club.There are different types of registration dependant on age range and type of club.

There are different types of registration dependant on age range and type of club.

Will they have an enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check?

Yes,allstaffmusthaveanenhancedDBScheck. Yes,allstaffmusthaveanenhancedDBScheck. Yes,allstaffmusthaveanenhancedDBScheck.


Yes,staffshouldattendongoingtraining.Staffshouldholdcertificatesinfirstaid,foodhygieneandsafeguarding/childprotection.Amanagershouldholdaminimum of a level 3 in a relevant qualification and 50% of the rest of the staff should hold a minimum of a level 2inarelevantqualification.PleasenotethatqualificationrequirementswillvaryforthoseontheVoluntaryOfstedChildcareRegister.Iftheyareonthevoluntarypart,thenthe requirement is one person with a minimum of level 2 in a relevant area of work or one person with training in the common core of skills and knowledge.

Yes,staffshouldattendongoingtraining.Staffshouldholdcertificatesinfirstaid,foodhygieneandsafeguarding/childprotection.Amanagershouldholdaminimumofalevel3inarelevantqualification,and50% of the rest of the staff should hold a minimum ofalevel2inarelevantqualification.Pleasenotethatqualification requirements will vary for those on the VoluntaryOfstedChildcareRegister.Iftheyareonthevoluntarypart,thentherequirementisonepersonwitha minimum of level 2 in a relevant area of work or one person with training in the common core of skills and knowledge.

Yes,staffshouldattendongoingtraining.Staffshouldholdcertificatesinfirstaid,foodhygieneandsafeguarding/childprotection.Amanagershouldholdaminimumofalevel3inarelevantqualification,and50% of the rest of the staff should hold a minimum ofalevel2inarelevantqualification.Pleasenotethatqualification requirements will vary for those on the VoluntaryOfstedChildcareRegister.Iftheyareonthevoluntarypart,thentherequirementisonepersonwith a minimum of level 2 in a relevant area of work or one person with training in the common core of skills and knowledge.

Where is the childcare? Normally on school sites but it may be in a nearby hall. Canbeinanytypeofvenueincludingaschoolhall,classroom,localchurchhall,scouthutorleisurecentre.Canbeinanytypeofvenueincludingaschoolhall,classroom,localchurchhall,scouthutorleisurecentre.

Who runs them?Itdependsonhowtheyaresetup,couldbeemployeddirectlybytheschool,aprivatecompanyoravoluntaryorganisation.

Itdependsonhowtheyaresetup,couldbeemployeddirectlybytheschool,aprivatecompanyora voluntary organisation.

It depends on how they are set up. It could be employeddirectlybytheschool,aprivatecompanyora voluntary organisation.

How old are the children they look after?Itdependsontheirregistration.Mostwilltakechildren from the age of 4 to 12 years but this can bedifferent for each club.

Itdependsontheirregistration.Mostwilltakechildren from the age of 4 to 12 years but this isdifferent for each club.

Itdependsontheirregistration.Mostwilltakechildren from the age of 4 to 12 years but this isdifferent for each club.

What is the average fee?

Anythingfrom2.50-5dependingonthelengthoftheclub and food offered.

Anythingfrom8-15dependingonthelengthofthe club and food offered. Some settings offer concessions for siblings.

Dependingonthetimesofthescheme,feescouldbefrom7.50-20perday/100-150foraweek.A few councils offer subsidised places and some schemes offer concessions.


Yes,aslongastheclubisregisteredwithOfsted. Yes,aslongastheclubisregisteredwithOfsted. Yes,aslongastheclubisregisteredwithOfsted.

Can I use childcare vouchers?

Yes,youcanusechildcarevouchersiftheclubisregisteredwithOfstedorisdirectlymanagedbyaschool and willing to register or are registered with the company that issue the vouchers.



When are they open?

Itvaries,somestartat7.30am,othersat7.45amor later. They finish when school starts. If thetimesdontmeetyourneeds,itisworthtalkingto the manager.

Itvaries.Usuallyfromtheendoftheschooldaybutfinishtimesvary,around5.30pmto6pm.Clubsmaypickupfromclubsattheschool,ormayhaveanagreementwith whoever runs that club to walk the children over to the after school club. If the times dont meet your needs,itisworthtalkingtothemanager.

It varies. Some start at 8am others at 10am.They may run until 4pm or 6pm. Different schemes offer different sessions. If the times dont meet your needs,itisworthtalkingtothemanager.

What is the ratio of staff to children?

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarechoicesforup-to-datefiguresontheratioofstafftochildrenandforinformation on the qualifications staff must have.




Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/choosingchildcare for more information.



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Questions

Parents view out of school care

Sarah, Louis and OscarSarah, mum of Louis aged 10 and Oscar aged 12, tells us about her choice of holiday childcare.

I work three days a week and need childcare for my two boys throughout the school holidays. They have always wanted to go to holiday playschemes together but they have very different interests and theres their age difference. Lots of schemes have a particular theme such as sport or drama but I needed to find a scheme that would offer a range of activities to suit them both.

The children have a big part to play in choosing their scheme.

Ive tried lots of different playschemes since the children were at school. Some they really enjoyed and others they werent too interested in going back to. Sometimes one child would enjoy the club but the other one wouldnt. Ive never been able to look around a playscheme before booking the kids in because theyre only open during the school holidays. Ive learnt what my children will enjoy from experienceandsoIknowwhatquestionsto ask when I ring round. The children have a big part to play in choosing their playscheme. They dont hold back in telling me what they think!

Ive always looked for a playscheme that isreasonably priced and that gives an early booking discount. I use childcare vouchers to pay for my childcare and Ill be able to use them until the children are 15 years old. This means I save up to 30% on the cost.

For the past few years Ive been using a clubinWeybridge,neartomyhomeandon my way to work. The club is open from 8.30am until 6pm and takes children aged 4 to14years.Itsnottooexpensiveandthechildren are given plenty to do throughout the day. Sometimes theyre taken ontripsout(whichcostsextra)likebowlingorhorse riding.

There are large indoor and outdoor play areas and they can choose to take part in activitieslikecooking,junkmodellingororganised sports or they play with their friends. The holiday playschemes offer a variety of care for children of all ages and interests,theschemeIusesuitsbothLouisandOscardowntotheground.

Over the years theyve made lots of new friends and they really look forward to seeing them again.

Its not the sort of club where there is a timetable of activities running throughout the day, but they really enjoy it all the same and come home happy and exhausted.

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Interviewing and visiting a childcare providerChildcare providers should be very happy for you to visit them, take a look around and answer any questions you may have, before you make a decision on who should care for your child.

Having a list of questions with you can be helpful so that you dont forget to ask them everything you need to know. Doing this also gives you the chance to look through the answers when youre at home and compare childcare providers.

Weveincludedtwotear-outchecklistsinthisbooklet(seepages29and30)that you can use as a guide when you are visiting and interviewing childcare providers,althoughyoumaywellhavequestions of your own too.

Childcare contractsOnce you have chosen your childcare provider, they should ask you to sign a contract or agreement before your child starts with them. Signed childcare contracts and agreements are legally binding. They are a safeguard for you and the childcarer and it is very important that everyone clearly understands what is being agreed.

A contract will normally include: theretainerfeeordeposittosecure

your childs place theamountyoupayandwhatitcovers

(forexamplenappies,food,daysout) thehours/daysyourchildwillattend anypersonaladditionssuchaslimiting

yourchildsTVwatching(forexamplenoteveryday)

paymentfortimeoffduringholidays,statutory public holidays and holiday notice periods

whatyoupayifyourchildorthecareris sick

noticeofterminationofthecontractand notice payment

datewhenthefullcontractstarts.

Oncethedetailsofthecontracthavebeen understood and agreed by everyone involved,itshouldthenbesignedanddated by the childcare provider and you. Rememberyoushouldbothkeepacopy.

If you have any concerns about signing your contract you can contact the CitizensAdviceBureau.SurreyFamilyInformation Service can provide some generaladvice,butcannotadviseon legal matters.

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Childcare checklist for non-domestic childcare

Use this tear-out checklist when you visit a pre-school or nursery. If youre visiting more than one, we suggest that you stick to the same questions so you can compare their answers.

Quality assured childcareLeaving your child with somebody else might feel like a big step. Every parent wants to be sure that their child is in safe hands and is well cared for. All registered childcare for children under eight years (where sessions are at least two hours long) is checked by Ofsted to make sure it meets certain standards. But for added peace of mind you could choose a childcare provider that has had a series of further checks known as a quality assurance scheme.

Whats a quality assurance scheme?Quality assurance schemes are programmes that help childcare providers to raise standards in day care and education beyond the minimum requirementssetbyOfsted.Childcareproviders who work towards a quality assurance scheme: collectevidenceandassessthemselves getmentoringsupportfromsomeone

outside of their setting areassessedandvalidatedexternally.

What schemes are there?There are several quality assurance schemes that childcare providers can choosefrom,includingtheSurreyCountyCouncilEarlyYearsQualityImprovementAward(SurreyQIA),launchedin2007.

Other schemes include:

E-QualitycountsNationalDayNurseries Association www.ndna.org.uk

AimingforqualityPre-schoollearningalliance www.pre-school.org.uk

Aiminghigh4Childrenwww.4children.org.uk

How will I know if a childcare provider is quality assured?Onceachildcareproviderhasbeenquality assured they will be given a certificate and will be able to use a logo or accreditation endorsement on their publicity materials and website.

All childminders who are members of the SurreyCountyCouncilQualityAssuredChildmindingNetworkarerecognisedin developing areas of their service. This means they are visited and assessed regularlybythehome-basedchildcareadvisors from Surrey Early Years and ChildcareServiceandtakepartintheSurreyCountyCouncilEarlyYearsQualityImprovementAward(SurreyQIA).

First impressions count Did you get a warm welcome when you arrived? Do the children there seem to be happy and content? Are the staff happy to show you around? Is there plenty of space outside for the children to play? Do the staff interact with your child? Canyoumeetotherstaffmembers?

Vacancies and costs Arethereanyvacancies-ifthereisawaitinglist,howlongisit? Doyouhavetopayadeposit?Ifso,whatsitfor?Canyouclaimitback? Howmuchdotheychargeperhour/day?Doyouhavetopayforholidays,meals,nappies,otheractivities? Canyouusetheofferof15hoursoffreeearlyeducationfor2,3and4yearolds?If you want additional hours how much extrawillitcost? Do they take childcare vouchers (if you canreceivethesefromyouremployer)? Dotheyofferasettlinginperiod,toseehowyourchildgetson?Ifso,howlongisit?

Staffing and premises Whats the ratio of staff to children? How many children do they care for? Dotheyhaveakey(named)personsystem? Whats the staff turnover like? Howwellqualifiedandexperiencedarethe staff?

ArealltheDisclosureBarringServicechecks(DBS)uptodate? Canyouseeacopyoftheregistrationcertificates and inspection reports?

Activities and support What daily routines do they have and how can they build your childs routines and needs into their day?

Where can your child have a sleep or rest? What happens if your child is unhappy? How would they be looked after?

Whatstheirpolicyondiscipline,howdothey manage childrens behaviour?

How will they cater for your childs dietary needs? What systems do they have in place if a child has a severe food allergy?

How will your childs cultural background be reflected and respected? Are there staff from different backgrounds? Do they have books and activities that reflectallcultures?Whataboutfood/music/religiousfestivals?

Will there be opportunities for you to get involved?

How will they tell you about your childs progress? Will they give your child a record book or learning journey?

Cantheytellyouabouthowtheyplanactivities to meet individual childrens interests and developmental needs?

Emergencies What happens if your child is unwell when they are there?

What happens if you are late picking your child up at the end of the day?

How will they get hold of you in an emergency?

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Childminder checklist

You can use this tear-out checklist when you visit a childminder. If youre visiting more than one, we suggest that you stick to the same questions so you can compare their answers.

Childcare with your familyMany parents use family members, particularly grandparents, for all or part of their childcare. Sometimes this is because parents want their child to be cared for by someone they know, but often its because of the cost of formal childcare.

Aswithformalchildcare,talkingabouthours,food,equipmentandholidaysatthe beginning can help avoid problems and family tensions at a later date. This is when a family childcare agreement can be useful. It can help the parent and grandparent work together and provides some consistency for the child.

The Grandparents Association Grandparents-association.org.uk have worked with grandparents to produce a family childcare checklist that you can download from their website and use as the base to your agreement.

This includes things such as: wherethechildcarewilltakeplace(yourhomeorthegrandparentshome)

agreeingonthenumberofhourstheywillbeexpectedtocareforyourchild

whattodoaboutholidays,bothforyouand the person caring for your child

howmuchyoullbepaying whatsortofequipmentyouwillbeexpectedtoprovide,suchascarseats,and stair gates

howtheyshoulddisciplineyourchild whatwouldyoulikeincludedinyour

childs routine and play safetyinthehome.

The checklist is just a place for you to start and you may want to add to this list. Butitsimportantthatbothyouandthefamily member caring for your child are clear and happy about what each others responsibilities are.

About the childminder How do they interact with the children? Whattrainingandexperiencedotheyhave? Dotheyhaveexperienceofcaringforchildren with a special educational need or disability? Canyouhavethephonenumbersofotherparents for references? Why do they like their job? How long do they intend to do it?

How old are their own children and the other children that they look after? (childminderscanlookaftersixchildrenundereightyearsold,butnomorethanthreeunderfive,includingtheirown).

Do they have back up arrangements with another childminder to cover them if they are ill or need to take leave?

Dothey,theirassistantandfamilyhaveDisclosureBarringService(DBS)?

Registration and paperwork CanyouseetheirOfstedregistrationcertificate? What records do they keep and how do they record accidents?

Canyouseeacurrentpublicliabilityinsurance certificate?

Do they work to a quality assurance scheme (seepage28)?

Do they work with an assistant?

Money Howmucharethefees,whatdotheyinclude and when and how should you pay? Doyouhavetopayforsettlingintime,when your child can get to know them beforehe/shestarts? Do you have to pay a deposit or retainer fee to secure the place?

Whatchargesaremadeforbankholidays,holidays and sickness?

Whowillneedtosupplynappies,babyfoodand milk?

Do they claim Free Early Education for Two yearolds(FEET)andFreeEarlyEducationfor 3 and 4 year olds?

Do they take childcare vouchers?

Caring for your child Do children take part in daily indoor and outdoor activities?

Do they go to local childminding groups? If they will be using a car do they have childminding insurance in place?

Do they have car seats suitable for your childs height and weight?

Do the children they are looking after seem to be happy and engaged in play?

Will your child be offered varied and nutritiousfood?Cantheyprovidespecialdiets?

How do they discipline the children? How do they help the children when they are toilet training?

What will your child need to bring every day?

Do they undertake risk assessments on their premises and on outings?

What would a typical day involve and how do the other childrens routines fit in with your childs?

Will they agree to a trial run (say a couple of mornings)toseehowyourchildgetson?

The home Cantheyshowyouaroundtheirhomeandgarden and tell you about hygiene and safety?

How often do their family and friends visit? What is their pet policy around children? Does the childminder or another family member smoke?

Ask to see where your child will sleep if theyre tired and make sure its quiet!

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Early learning with your childResearch shows that what your child experiences in the first few years of their life has a direct effect on the development of their brain and lays the foundation for future learning as they grow up.

Whilst the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) helps childcare providers support learning and development in children, you are the most important person in your childs life so its important that you support their progress too.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/earlylearning to see some of the resources weve put together to help parents and carers with their childs learning and development

Communication and languageIn the first five years of your childs life they will learn more about speaking and words than at any other time. They need good speaking and listening skills so that they can learn.

Aswithotherskills,childrenwilldeveloplanguageatdifferentrates.Childrenunderstandfarmorethantheycansay,but if youre worried about your childs speech and language talk to your health visitor,orgotowww.talkingpoint.org.ukto find out more about how language develops.

Its important that your child hears languagespokencorrectly,sospeaktothem in the language that you feel most comfortable with. Its the quality of your conversationswiththemthatsimportant,it doesnt matter which language you use.

Learning to readIts never too early to encourage a love of reading in children. Even before they begin to read themselves it can help to lookatbookstogether,talkingaboutthe pictures and whats going on in the story.InSurrey,somelocallibrariesholdregular story and rhymetime sessions that can provide a really fun and enjoyable introduction to books and libraries for young children and are also a great way to help your childs language development.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/directory to find your nearest library.

You can also visit your local Sure Start childrens centre to access a wide range of books and at ages three to four children receivetheirnextBookstartpacktofollowon from the one they got as a baby.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/bookstart formoreinformationonBookstart.

Personal, social and emotional developmentYourchildspersonal,socialandemotionaldevelopment in the first five years of their life is as important as developing physical and communication skills. If a child feels good about themself and othersfrombirth,theyllfinditeasiertogetonwith,respectandrelatetoothersand learn how to manage their feelings as they grow up.

Toddler groups and toy libraries are a great place for this kind of development as they provide an opportunity for both children and parents to socialise and meet new friends. For a small charge many offer fun play sessions and activities where children can interact together.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/directory to find details of toddler groups and toy libraries in your area.

Physical developmentIts important that children are physically active every day as its essential for healthy growth and development.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/directory to find details about local parks and playgrounds or activities near you.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childrenscentres for more information on your local centre.

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The booklet has been divided into the following sections: Findingaschool-howtofindand

apply for a school Whenyourchildhasaschoolplace-

ideas and suggestions to help you and your child be ready for their first day

Lifeatschool-whatyourchildsdaywillbe like at school and what they will learn.

Thinking about school also has links to help you find out more about the subjects itcovers,aswellascontactdetailsforother services and organisations that can provide more information and advice.

If youre the parent or carer of a child whogoestonursery,pre-schooloraplaygroup,youllgetacopyofThinkingaboutschoolwiththeBookstartTreasurepacks during the summer term. If your child doesnt go to an early years childcare provider,youcanpickupacopyatyourlocal library or find it online at www.surreycc.gov.uk/fispublications

Parents Pages 0-5 magazineParentsPagesisourtermlymagazineforparents,grandparentsandcarersofchildren aged 0 to 5 years old.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/parentspages to view it online or pick up your copy at your local library

Parents Pages 5 to 19 online magazineIf youre the parent of older children aged 5to19youcansubscribetotheParentsPages5to19onlinemagazine.Wellemailit to you termly and its packed full of useful news and articles.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/parentspages5to19 and subscribe

Sure Start Childrens Centres in SurreyChildrens centres offer support and services to families from pregnancy right through until they start school. They offer services for everyone, but especially for families at times when life is a bit of a struggle.

There are 58 childrens centres across the county and two specially designed mobile childrens centres. Each childrens centre will provide services that meet the needs oftheircommunities,sosomechildrenscentres may offer slightly different services,thesemayinclude:playandlearnsessionswhereyou

and your child get to have fun together and make new friends whilst your child learns

familysupportwhichincludes parenting courses

helpstayinghealthy,includingadviceonbreastfeeding,nutritionandhealthylifestyles during pregnancy and beyond

childcareandearlyeducationatthechildrenscentre,orsignpostingtootherlocalchildcareproviders,includinginformationonlocalhome-based childcare

informationandadvicesessionsfromSurrey Family Information Services outreach team

adviceandtipsonhowtoimproveyourownskillsorhowtofindwork,includinglinkstoJobCentrePlus

FreeEarlyEducationforTwoyearolds(FEET).

Manyoftheservicesatthechildrenscentresarefree,butyoumayneedtopayforsome,suchaschildcare.

Go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childrenscentres for more information about your local childrens centre and dont forget to fill in the online new parent registration form so your local childrens centre can get in touch and tell you about their service.

Other resources from Surrey Family Information ServiceThinking about schoolNomatterhowyoungyourchildis,itsnever too early to think about what will happen when they go to school. Weve produced this booklet to answer your questions,explaintheapplicationprocessand provide information and tips on how you can help your child to prepare for schoolandwhattoexpectwhenthey get there.

No longer top dog

Five to ThriveRESPOND-CUDDLE-RELAX -PLAY-TALK - five activities that help brain development

Early Years Foundation Stage

The Local Offer Explained A parents viewWhat is it and why do you need to know about it? Special educational needs and disabilities information all in one placeOf her local Sure Start Childrens Centre

Preparing your dog for your new arrival

AUTUMN 2014 Free

Making Surrey a better pla

ce

www.surreycc.gov.uk

Up to 25 for young peop

le

with special educational

needs and disabilities

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Email [email protected] Tel 0300 200 1004 Web www.surreycc.gov.uk/fis

This booklet was accurate when it was updated in May 2014.

Making Surrey a better place

www.surreycc.gov.uk

Thinking About Childcare and Early Education Leaflet

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Transcript of Thinking About Childcare and Early Education Leaflet