Childminder assistant

Overview

Saff’s Childminding is a warm, safe and nurturing home-based childcare setting where children can learn, play and grow in a welcoming family environment. We provide caring, personalised childcare that supports each child’s individual needs, interests and development.

Our setting offers a balance of structured activities and free play, with opportunities for creative play, reading, outdoor exploration and age-appropriate learning. We aim to create a positive environment where children feel happy, secure, valued and encouraged to become confident and independent.

At Saff’s Childminding, we believe that children learn best through play, exploration and positive relationships, while working closely with parents and carers to ensure continuity of care and the best possible experience for every child.

Duties

Childcare & Daily Care

* Providing a safe, warm and nurturing environment for children.

• * Supervising children at all times and ensuring their safety.
• * Supporting children with their individual care needs.
• * Preparing and providing healthy meals and snacks where applicable.
• * Supporting children with toileting, handwashing and personal hygiene.
• * Supporting sleep and rest routines.
• * Helping children develop independence and confidence.
• * Supporting positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing.
• * Building positive and respectful relationships with children.
• * Communicating regularly with parents/carers about their child’s day.
• Planning & Learning
• * Planning age-appropriate activities based on children’s interests and developmental needs.
• * Providing a balance of indoor and outdoor activities.
• * Planning creative, sensory, physical, literacy and numeracy activities.
• * Supporting learning through play and everyday experiences.
• * Observing children and identifying their interests, strengths and areas for development.
• * Recording observations and using them to inform future planning.
• * Reviewing activities and adapting them where necessary.
• * Creating individual learning opportunities for each child.
• Display Boards & Learning Environment
• * Creating and maintaining display boards.
• * Displaying children’s artwork, photographs and achievements.
• * Creating themed displays linked to current learning and interests.
• * Updating displays regularly so they remain relevant and engaging.
• * Creating an inviting and stimulating learning environment.
• * Making sure resources and activities are accessible to children.
• * Rotating toys, books and resources to maintain children’s interest.
• Records & Administration
• * Maintaining children’s registration and attendance records.
• * Keeping required childminding documentation up to date.
• * Recording accidents, incidents and medication where applicable.
• * Maintaining children’s learning and development records.
• * Keeping emergency contact information up to date.
• * Maintaining consent forms and relevant permissions.
• * Completing daily/weekly planning and reflective records.
• * Keeping policies and procedures reviewed and updated.
• Health, Safety & Safeguarding
• * Carrying out regular safety checks of the home and outdoor areas.
• * Maintaining appropriate safeguarding procedures.
• * Following infection-control and hygiene procedures.
• * Checking toys and equipment regularly for safety.
• * Maintaining appropriate first-aid arrangements.
• * Completing risk assessments where required.
• * Ensuring children are collected only by authorised adults.
• * Following fire safety and emergency procedures.
• Professional Responsibilities
• * Maintaining confidentiality and protecting children’s personal information.
• * Developing positive relationships with parents and carers.
• * Keeping up to date with relevant childcare guidance and requirements.
• * Completing relevant training and professional development.
• * Reflecting on the quality of care and making improvements where necessary.
• * Maintaining a welcoming, professional and child-centred setting.
• Weekly Setting Tasks
• A simple weekly checklist could include:
• ☐ Plan activities for the week
• ☐ Update learning/display boards
• ☐ Prepare resources and activities
• ☐ Complete children’s observations
• ☐ Review children’s interests and progress
• ☐ Rotate toys/books/resources
• ☐ Check indoor and outdoor safety
• ☐ Clean and sanitise toys/equipment
• ☐ Review attendance …