Nursery World Awards 2024 – Childminding Business of the Year

At Shelford Childcare, children are encouraged to become explorers and gain a sense of wonder through the provision of activities and resources that build on their interests and allow them to use their imaginations. Through this they become hands-on learners and develop a sense of belonging and togetherness with their peers.

The small childminding business brings a ‘family’ feel to the care provided and the ability to give important on-to-one attention, while also giving the children the experience of being in a group with a mixed age of children.

‘In the moment planning’ is used because it allows them to relate directly to what children are doing and are interested in at that time – introducing new language, concepts and ideas, asking open questions and checking their understanding through conversations and when they invite staff into their play. The small setting enables children to be regarded as individuals with their own learning styles, personalities and uniqueness, and a focus is given to getting to know their families so their holistic needs can be met. Parents share calendars of events and celebrations that their family participates in to provide relevant ideas for activities and to increase staff and children’s knowledge.