Hello!

I have my first Ofsted inspection next week. I know when it is because I only have one child one day a week. I mainly have children before school and after school and sort of 'fell in to' having a child during the day - but I do love having her! Because of the infrequency of her visits (its also not every week) it does make it very difficult to plan for her, and she also goes to a pre-school 5 mornings a week, so her mum doesn't expect anything from me other than actual childminding, but I know Ofsted will expect more from me. Anyway I am really nervous and feeling very sick every time I think about it.

What type of things to they look for and ask you? I just want to be as prepared as possible. Also do you have to have some ethnic toys? I just have generic toys, dolls, happy land, cars etc - nothing specific.

Many thanks in advance
Sarah

Must be difficult for them to grade when CMs have few children. Good luck, and am sure it will go well !! There are threads on here regarding inspections which should help:)

The best thing you can do is relax and try to be yourself. Show the inspector how well you know the child by talking about ther and what she does etc and put out an activity that you know she likes. Show how the child has made progress with you and what you are doing to help her reach the next steps etc. Use the lits on here to check you all the paperwork you need and have it ready for the inspector. You will be fine. The fact you have come on here and asked shows you want to do the best you can. Good luck.

Thank you Jillplum and Chriss - I'll try and relax!

I say to people if you come out of your inspection still able to childmind then it was successful :D

It will all go OK I am sure, make sure you have details from her preschool planning, and try to link something in from this. It might only be a photocopied sheet - this wont matter, all will help.