As an Ofsted registered Childminder, I am aware that some children may have special needs and to be proactive in ensuring that appropriate action is taken when a child is identified as having special needs or starts in my care. I must promote the welfare and development of the child in partnership with parents and other relevant agencies.

I aim to follow the requirements of EYFS (2014) and the Childcare Register (2012) and provide an inclusive environment for ALL children and their families. I am also requite to comply with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and the SEND Code of Practice 2014

I will do this by:

Regularly talking to parents/carers about the individual needs of each child

Talking to children about their likes/dislikes and interests

Encouraging parents to tell me about family culture/religion/beliefs

Providing a wide range of resources and activities which reflect the diversity of our local area and further afield

Supporting each child through sensitive observation, regular assessment and individually planned activities to achieve their full potential

Providing individual support depending on child’s needs

Using the 2 year progress check to highlight any areas of concern

Focusing on the positive things that each child can do

Challenging any forms of prejudice

Providing resources which challenge stereotypical ideas

Sharing information with parents/carers about children’s learning and development- and providing ideas for home learning-as required by EYFS 2014

Seeking permission to ask for support from outside agencies where appropriate

Attending appropriate training to ensure I have skills and knowledge that needed to support children and their families

Encourage children to respect each other as individuals

I welcome your feedback on my service at any time and I am happy to discuss my policies verbally, or provide them in a different format if needed

If I believe a child needs additional support, I will speak to parents and ask their permission to approach agencies which will support their child. I will follow the graduate approach set out in the Department for Education SEND Code of Practice to ensure every child receives the best possible care, learning and development

www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-25

A SEND guide for parents and carers is available from

www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-guide-for-parents-and-carers

I have therefore put the following procedures in place:

If I think a child in my care has a special need I will:

• Keep observational notes

• Share these with the child’s parents

• Discuss what support is available

• Keep all matters confidential

If I am caring for a child with special needs I will include them by:

• Valuing and acknowledging children’s individuality and help them to feel good about themselves

• Seek information from parents about the child’s routines, likes and dislikes

• Adapting activities to enable children with special needs to take part

• Arrange access to specialist equipment if needed

• Consider any risk factors

• Encourage children’s confidence and independence

I will work in partnership with parents and discuss:

• Agencies that are also involved in the child’s support and care

• Equipment that the child may need

• Advice or support that will help me to provide the best care possible for their child

I will consider how I can ensure the privacy of a child with special needs whilst continuing to supervise other children in my care.