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News

Childminding Network Event at Upton Country Park

The Borough of Poole’s Childminding Network got active at a Play Day held at Upton Country Park. The theme of the day was ‘shape’ which was celebrated through words, stories, songs and activities.  Network Childminders and their minded children came along armed with picnics and enjoyed the sunshine and fun activities. Everyone had a wonderful time playing with beanbags, parachutes, tunnels and hoops and heard all about body percussion techniques which enable children to discriminate and identify sound from Caroline Davies, Foundation Stage Advisory Teacher.

Celia Manville, Borough of Poole Network Co-ordinator who organised the event with fellow Network Co-ordinator Sadie Kerslake-Smith, said: “We had an excellent turn out, the children enjoyed playing with the outdoor equipment in the spacious grounds of Upton Country Park and the day gave Network Childminders an opportunity to exchange ideas and experience new activities.”

Councillor Tony Woodcock, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Learning, said: “The appeal to parents of using a Network Childminder for their childcare needs includes high standards of care, varied and stimulating learning opportunities, nursery education in a home based environment with high adult to child ratios and access to group activities and events like these.”

There are currently over 180 registered childminders in Poole, and of these, nearly 50  are now members of the Borough of Poole’s ‘Children Come First’ network cluster and have achieved Quality Assured Status. To become members childminders are assessed and regularly monitored, usually every 8 - 10 weeks, by a Borough of Poole Network Co-ordinator.  The networks give childminders support and training, a monthly toy library and play session and frequent children’s events and activities.

The Play Day at Upton Country Park was one many events organised by the Borough of Poole’s Early Years Team as part of National Sure Start Month. Sure Start is the Government’s unit which brings together early education, childcare and family support.

If you are interested in becoming a Network Childminder please call Celia Manville or Sadie Kerslake-Smith Tel: 01202 261900

If you are a parent or carer interested in choosing a Network Childminder for your child’s care and early education needs please contact the Borough of Poole’s Children’s Information Service for an up to date list. Tel: 01202 261999.

Emma Holland, Early Years Marketing Offi8cer, Pupil and Parent Support, Borough of Poole. Tel No: 01202 261925