Lynne – childminder
Tell us a bit about your background
What did you do before you joined the early years sector?
I worked in the travel industry in leisure and business travel, and the motor industry.
Tell us how you entered the sector. Was there a specific entry route you took?
I completed my local authority’s introduction to childminding course when my daughter was 4 months old. I then set up my childminding business and have been working in early years education for the last 12 years.
What qualifications did you have before becoming a childminder?
I held a level 3 qualification in travel and tourism when I first registered as a childminder. I have since completed a foundation degree in early years. I’m also working on a level 2 in understanding neuroscience and self-regulation in the early years. I’m starting my BA this year.
What inspired you to join the early education sector?
I wanted to give children positive, local experiences like I was lucky enough to have had growing up with my family.
A day in the life
No two days are the same!
Children arrive from 7:30am for breakfast and I settle them in, ensuring all the school children have everything they need for their day.
After school drop-off, we head to the library, a park, a drop-in childminder group or the local wooded area to explore, talk and play.
I try to include craft or messy activities in our week. This is all dependent on each child’s interests and abilities. Some days we cover lots of areas of learning and some days we play and laugh, building relationships and skills.
I set up various activities such as sand writing, crafting or tea parties with the dolls and teddies, and a real china tea set. I am not overly concerned about a finished product. It’s the experience that matters most for the children.
We also fit in activities that include movement, such as den building and balancing. We recently hung a clear shower curtain over the washing line and painted it, using lots of arm movements to support their fine motor skills.
What do you enjoy about your job?
The morning welcome, smiles, and cuddles! Watching them develop their confidence and independence over time.
The difference and impact you can make is so rewarding.
Can you share any highlights with us?
Being awarded ‘Outstanding’ twice by Ofsted and completing my degree. Also, the incredible people in the early years sector that I have met along the way. There are so many passionate early years educators who care about the importance of early years and the role we play in supporting children and families.
Do you feel supported in your role?
My local authority is very supportive. They send out a weekly newsletter that focuses on supporting childminders. Also, in my area, the childminders have strong working relationships with each other. We help each other out and have formed supportive friendships. There’s also a local Facebook page where we can share ideas, worries and ask for advice from peers.
Career tips
What advice would you have for anyone wanting to work in childcare?
See yourself as a professional, work hard, build and value relationships. Do as much training and continued professional development (CPD) as is possible to support your practice.
What is one thing you would like people to know about early years work?
The difference and impact you can make is so rewarding and there are lots of career opportunities, so go for it! Be part of the difference we are making in early years.
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