Arranging the first meeting needs thought, a suitable time during the day agreeable to both the parents and childminder, is important. This will give parents an insight into the environment that their child will be spending a lot of time in.

There will also be a lot of questions on both sides.

There will be anxiety and a range of emotions, but with our depth of experience we will try and allay all doubts and fears.
With mutual agreement this could lead to subsequent meetings, with a view to signing a contract and settling the child into our care.

Kay is a Children Come First network Childminder.

I am assessed every 12 weeks by the network coordinator to make sure that I am working to the standards of the National Childminding Association’s Quality Childminding Charter. This covers all aspects of childminding from keeping children safe to working with families.
The co-ordinator also helps with planning for further training whether at college or training just for the network.
Because I belong to a Children Come First Network you will know that someone who has demonstrated very high standards of care is
looking after your child.

http://www.ncmaccf.org.uk/Templates/Information.asp?NodeID=90190&i1PNID=89795

Policies Procedures and Guidelines

To safeguard and promote your Children’s Welfare we have some policies, procedures and guidelines in place.
Parents are given a portfolio on signing the contract which contains information relevant to our setting. Parents are asked to read the portfolio and ask any relevant questions to clarify any points of interest, we are more than happy to answer any questions that you may have then or in the future.
We also ask for any suggestions on improving our policies where appropriate.
To be able to safeguard the children, we need information from the parents we do this by asking the parent to fill in a questionnaire when a child first attends our setting. The information requested is about the child’s requirements such as dietary, allergies, major illnesses or health needs.
There are also some permission forms parents are requested to sign, which cover things like permission to take photographs and for outings to the library or shops.
We maintain our contact with parents not only by meeting them on arrival and departure but via email, messages on the notice board, letter, newsletter and phone.

Records to be kept

All records will be dealt with confidentially and in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage

Further information for parents and carers
 
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Preschooldevelopmentandlearning/NurseriesPlaygroupsReceptionClasses/DG_171007