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Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

Not happy after settling in day

9 replies

TerrysNo2 · 30/08/2013 16:49

Just picked DS and DD up from a settling in day at the new childminders, DS told me that they watched 3 films (they were there for 4.5 hours)

The CM said that they also play games when the TVs on Hmm

I feel really unhappy about this, she also doesn't seem to ever take them out, based on what she said.

AIBU to want to change??Sad

OP posts:
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insancerre · 30/08/2013 16:51

yanbu
that sounds like a really bad childminder
maybe look around for another one?

Wallison · 30/08/2013 16:53

Childminders all do things differently and I don't think there's a 'right' or 'wrong' outside of neglect etc, but if what she does with them doesn't chime with what you'd like them to be doing then you're not being unreasonable at all to look for someone who will give them an environment that you feel they'd be happier in. Might be an idea to ask about what they'll be doing before you sign a contract though! Didn't you discuss things like outings and telly before now? Never mind, it's done now. I'd look around for someone else and give notice when you find them.

insancerre · 30/08/2013 17:02

the right or wrong would be in the EYFS, which she has to follow
www.foundationyears.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/EYFS-Statutory-Framework-2012.pdf
there is lots of advice on activities in the development matters guidance - can't seem to find any mention of hours of watching tv

Wallison · 30/08/2013 17:08

Not all childminders pay heed to the EYFS even though they're supposed to - and I can think of a couple of good ones round here who don't. I think the most important thing is that it's a good 'fit' for the child and what the parent knows will help the child's development in the best way.

I personally wouldn't be happy with that amount of telly-watching, so in your shoes I'd be looking to change, OP.

insancerre · 30/08/2013 17:14

well if they don't follow the EYFS then they shouldn't be doing childminding then- it comes with the role
I see nothing wrong with some tv- after all, a cm is supposed to be a homely setting, but 3 films on a settling in visit is worrying
I would have thought that she would be trying to impress and show how good she is

Thurlow · 30/08/2013 17:14

I'd definitely be discussing it. To give the CM the benefit of the doubt, she might have thought it was nicer for the kids to stay in the house and get to know the house on their first day there, rather than be in-out-in-out as they can be once the normal routine starts. If it's that than fine, but if the telly will be on all the time, I'd change.

CreatureRetorts · 30/08/2013 21:18

Blimey there's no way I'd use that CM. do you have other options?

TerrysNo2 · 30/08/2013 22:31

Thanks for your responses.

Unfortunately we don't have any other options at the moment but we are meeting with another childminder tomorrow. I am gutted as she is really nice and is a 2 minute walk away but it just doesn't feel right Sad

OP posts:
happydazed · 31/08/2013 00:28

Have you spoken to her and asked what they normally do, a settling in day may well not be the same as a normal day in that the main focus is in keeping the new child happy and getting them used to you. I very rarely have the tv on normally but i might do more if it helped a new child to settle.

I wouldn't be happy with not going out.

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