Hi,

My name is Angela Tomlinson, and I run Littleflyers before and after school care, as an Ofsted registered childminder and National Childminder Association member (NCMA), I have trained in ICP childcare, paediatric first aid for childcarers, food hygiene and have an NVQ level 3 children’s care, learning & development qualification.

At my last Ofsted inspection, in June 2009, I was graded as Outstanding, which means that every aspect of  care provision is of exceptional high quality.

As a mother of four children, including twins I know that you want the best for your child. You want your child to have fun in a stimulating environment while they develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. Most of all you want to know that your child is receiving the kind of quality care you would provide in a safe environment.

The adopted approach is to foster the skills necessary for your child to succeed at both school and life. Each day is structured with time to both learn and play. Your child will grow and discover at their own pace, with stimulating hands-on activities.

All childminders are different – we are the unknown! Childminding practices differ to such extremes – the substitute granny with no training, the “pocket money” minder working for a temporary solution while the children are small to the professional career childminder. We don’t fit into the same box, and we certainly don’t stay in one – we are all too busy providing a caring and loving environment for our children.

I am a professional childminder. I am recognised for the unique and flexible and caring environment that I offer to children in a family home. I am no substitute granny. I know that children learn best through their own interests. Most nurseries and reception teachers wish they could use the local area and follow the child’s interests as I do. They cater for a class of children, I cater for individuals. This is what parents want – someone who puts their child’s needs and interests first!

A professional childminder means caring for children over a number of years, building up relationships and helping children to reach their potential and beyond. I get involved with my local community and mix with other childminders. Because I know my children well I can observe children at play and enhance their learning.

A professional childminder does do more paperwork, but we should all have policies and information that we can share with parents – that way we can work together to provide the best for their children, and if something goes wrong we have clear guidelines to follow. It is impossible to discuss everything with a child’s parents before they start, but providing written policies gives parents a clear indication of how we provide the best possible care.

Copies of my Ofsted Registration and Public Liability insurance are available for inspection upon request.

Selection of care for your child is an important decision, hopefully, some of your queries may be addressed by the information contained in this web site; however, please feel free to contact me to discuss your individual needs in greater depth.

Regards