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Childminders are outstanding

By Gill Haynes, chief executive of the National Childminding Association Ofsted has published the first 1,200 daycare and childminding inspection reports, using its new inspection framework. Of the 16 providers judged outstanding, 14 were registered childminders, all bar one of them NCMA members. Of course quality is more than just a grading. The parents I have met say they chose childminding because their child has fun, feels nurtured in a home-like, caring environment, and often they are cared for with their siblings.

Of course quality is more than just a grading. The parents I have met say they chose childminding because their child has fun, feels nurtured in a home-like, caring environment, and often they are cared for with their siblings.

Independent research shows quality childcare is about favourable ratios, stability, responsive care-giving and training. Registered childminders and nannies care for smaller numbers of children at any one time than most centre-based settings, making them better placed to respond to a child's individual needs.

Most registered childminders build strong relationships with the parents.

New parents seek advice from their childminder on everything from baby's sleepless nights to working tax credit.

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