Hi there

This is my first post. I was a reg cm 7-8yrs ago then went into employment. Now starting process again. Seems to have changed some what! I know the answer to this is probably obvious but I can't remember everything about my first time round.

I am looking to mind older children 3yrs+. As it's still early days I haven't got any safety equipment yet. As I will be seeking only older children to start with do I need to 'cater' for younger ones for ofsted? I don't want to buy things that I may not need, like stair gates which I wouldn't use for that age anyway. In other words does my house NEED to be baby proof even though I'm not looking for that age? Obviously if I did end up minding younger I would certainly get those things.

Thanks!!

amo

You just need to risk assess it.

For example, We dont have locks on the draws and cupboards in the kitchen but have done a risk assessment stating children will not be allowed in the kitchen unsupervised (door closed) and they will be taught not to open the draws/cupboards from a very young age and Ofsted were happy.

ofsted are happy as long as you say that if you got a baby you would buy any equipment required. As the other poster said show you have risk assessed and they are fine with that.

I have small children under 3.

I dont have a stair gate or a fire guard.

I risk assessed these and thought the stair gate to be too dangerous for everyone else and I cant even turn the fire on, so a child wouldnt be able too!

As others have said, as long as you risk assess it, its completely fine.

Good luck, Rachel x

I also look after children under 3 and I haven't had a fireguard for years - as long as you show you recognise the risk and say what steps you've taken to deal with it then you should be OK

Miffy xx