Helen

About Me

Hi my name is Helen, I am a registered childminder working from my home in Pontardawe. I live with my partner Andrew and our 4 children. (one 12 year boy and 3 older daughters in college/work) who have all grown up with me working as a childminder. I am NNEB qualified with over 25 years experience in both nannying and childminding and have been working as a childminder since 2000. I choose to work from home to offer good quality affordable childcare for working families and fulfill my role as a parent. I offer full and part time care for children between 0 and twelve years old.. I live in a semi detached house with a closed in back garden. I have significant outdoor space in which children of all ages can explore, play and role play. The space includes a large patio area with water table, bikes and a slide unit for younger children to play with and a closed back garden with swings,slides, football goals, sandpit, outdoor toys &sports equipment and a two level playhouse kitted out for outdoor role play.
My registration allows me to care for 6 children under 12 years at any one time. I can mind up to 3 children under 5(preschool) of which no more than 2 can be under 18 months.
I am a member of PACEY and hold my public liability insurance through them. My insurance covers me for a total of 12 children of which no more than 6 can be under the age of 12 as set out in my registration. Both my pacey membership and my insurance are renewed annually.
I am regularly inspected and assessed by CIW. I hold current certificates in Food Hygiene, First Aid, Risk Assessment, Child Protection. Myself, my partner and all daughters are all DBS checked at enhanced level. I offer a clean, safe, fun and friendly environment to children whose parents need to work or have other necessary commitments. I strive to maintain a stimulating diverse environment and experience for all children in my care and promote inclusion of all irrespective of gender, ability, culture or beliefs. Above all I aim to ensure that all children have fun when they come to me, and always leave with a smile and want to come back. I provide home cooked meals and healthy snacks which are all included in my fees. If any parents wish to supply their own then I am happy to accommodate this.
I live within walking distance to two schools. At present I currently pick up from the local welsh medium school. Also within walking distance are 2 playgrounds, Pontardawe swimming pool, library and a few baby and toddler groups which I am more than happy to attend if parents wish their child to have a wider interaction with more children of a similar age.
Before your child/children starts coming to me, you will be provided with a full copy of my policies to take home, read and keep. This gives you the chance to fully understand all aspects of the service I provide before you commit to and sign any contract. I feel it is very important to work in close partnership with the parents to ensure that I provide the best care possible for every child I mind and that I try to incorporate any and all individual needs. All children and parents are welcome into my home and i will try my best to make sure new people feel comfortable before they start with me. First I would invite the parents and child to meet me and my family and have a look around so you can see what environment your child will be in. I will then discuss with you and your child what their likes, dislikes, and routines so i can try and keep it as normal for them as possible, whether they have a favorite toy to help them settle in easier. It is very important to me that all parties feel relaxed and happy in my home and we can build a good relationship and trust in each other.