Chrissie

About Me

Hello, my name is Chrissie, and I am an experienced, Ofsted-registered childminder based in Highams Park. I am very proud to have achieved Outstanding in all areas at two consecutive Ofsted inspections, in September 2015 and September 2022.

I absolutely love working with children and take great pride in providing a warm, nurturing and stimulating home-from-home environment where children feel happy, secure and confident to explore, play and learn.

During my most recent inspection, Ofsted highlighted:

"Children's well-being and emotional health is of the highest importance. The childminder is extremely loving and frequently boosts children's confidence as they play. Her highly attentive and nurturing manner supports children to behave in an extremely positive way. Very young children show excellent levels of engagement and enjoyment."

Learning Through Play, Music and Creativity:
I firmly believe that children learn best through play, exploration and meaningful everyday experiences. My approach to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is centred around making learning enjoyable, engaging and appropriate to each child's interests and stage of development.

Music is a big part of life in my setting! We love singing, dancing, nursery rhymes, action songs and exploring different sounds and rhythms. I also play the guitar, which adds another lovely dimension to our musical experiences. Music helps children develop language, listening skills, coordination, confidence and the freedom to express themselves.

Arts and crafts are equally important. We enjoy painting, drawing, collage, playdough, sensory activities and making all sorts of wonderful creations. I encourage children to use their imaginations, experiment with different materials and take pride in what they create, rather than focusing on the finished result.

Alongside our creative activities, children enjoy storytelling, imaginative play, construction, outdoor exploration and opportunities to develop early literacy and mathematical skills naturally through play.

Life in My Setting:
My home offers a welcoming, family-oriented environment with a secure garden and plenty of opportunities for indoor and outdoor learning.

We regularly enjoy outings to local parks, libraries and playgroups, as well as playdates with other childminding settings. These experiences help children build friendships, develop social skills and become confident exploring the world around them.

I place great importance on children's emotional well-being, independence and developing positive relationships. Through warm, consistent care and everyday experiences, I encourage children to make choices, help one another, develop practical skills and become happy, curious and confident learners.

I also prepare fresh, nutritious meals and snacks, making mealtimes relaxed, sociable and enjoyable.

Above all, I want children to feel that my setting is their home away from home, where they are loved, encouraged and supported to grow and thrive.

If you would like to know more about my childcare setting, please feel free to get in touch. I would be delighted to hear from you.