Why to get Toddlers Outdoors & Activity Ideas

Unleashing Your Toddler’s Adventurous Spirit

Do you sometimes wish your toddler had a “reset” button? Well, the great outdoors might just be that magical switch!

In this post, we delve into why getting toddlers outside is a game-changer for their development. From boosting creativity to improving motor skills, the benefits are as endless as a toddler’s energy.

But hey, we’re not leaving you hanging! We’ve got a treasure trove of outdoor activity ideas perfect for your little explorer. So, grab your sun hat and let’s unlock the wonders of outdoor fun for your tiny tot!

Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Toddlers

Spending time outdoors offers a plethora of benefits for toddlers, shaping their physical health, cognitive development, and emotional well-being in remarkable ways. Let’s dive into how outdoor activities can positively impact the little ones and why it’s crucial to encourage them to explore the great outdoors.

Physical Health

Outdoor play is a fantastic way for toddlers to enhance their physical well-being. When children engage in activities outside, they are actively developing their motor skills and coordination. For instance, climbing on a jungle gym helps improve balance and agility, while running around a local park boosts their overall physical fitness. By encouraging outdoor play, parents and caregivers are supporting the natural development of children’s physical abilities in a fun and engaging way.

Cognitive Development

Outdoor activities stimulate toddlers’ cognitive development by fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and sensory exploration. When kids play outside, they have the freedom to use their imagination and invent new games, which enhances their creativity. Moreover, outdoor environments provide endless opportunities for children to explore, experiment, and discover, leading to improved problem-solving abilities. The sensory experiences gained from playing outdoors, such as feeling different textures or hearing various sounds, contribute to the development of a child’s cognitive skills.

Emotional Well-being

Nature exposure plays a crucial role in nurturing toddlers’ emotional well-being.

Being outdoors reduces stress and anxiety levels in children, offering them a breath of fresh air and space to unwind.

The natural surroundings also have a positive impact on mood, with studies showing that time spent in nature can uplift spirits and enhance mental health. Additionally, outdoor play encourages social interaction and cooperation among toddlers, helping them build essential social skills like sharing, communication, and teamwork.

By incorporating outdoor activities into toddlers’ routines, parents can support their holistic development and well-being. From boosting physical health to fostering cognitive skills and nurturing emotional resilience, the benefits of outdoor play for young children are boundless. So, grab those wellies and sunhats, head outside, and watch as your little ones thrive in the great outdoors!

Ideas for Outdoor Activities with Toddlers

Engaging toddlers in outdoor activities is not only fun but also essential for their development. From nature scavenger hunts to sensory play, there are plenty of exciting ways to keep your little ones entertained while exploring the great outdoors.

Girl and Boy Sitting on Grass Field Surrounded by Trees

Nature Scavenger Hunt

Embark on a thrilling adventure with a nature scavenger hunt! Gather some curious items like smooth stones, colourful leaves, or pinecones for your toddlers to discover. You can create a checklist or provide picture cards to make the hunt even more exciting.

Sensory Play with Natural Materials

Little girl collect raw pasta with metal spoon in plastic container

Let your toddlers indulge in the wonders of sensory play using natural materials like sand, water, leaves, or pinecones. Encourage them to explore different textures, smells, and colours while fostering their creativity and sensory development. Making mud pies and dandelion soup are favourites here.

Water Play Activities

Who doesn’t love water play on a warm day? Whether it’s splashing in puddles, experimenting with water tables, or building DIY water walls, these activities are sure to bring endless joy and laughter to your little ones.

Outdoor Art and Craft Projects

Unleash your toddler’s artistic side with outdoor art and craft projects. From leaf rubbings to rock painting and nature collages, there are countless ways to incorporate nature’s beauty into creative masterpieces.

Gardening Adventures

Girl Sitting on Grass Smelling White Petaled Flower

Introduce your toddlers to the magical world of gardening by planting seeds, watering plants, and observing nature’s growth firsthand. Not only is it a fun and educational activity, but it also instils a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the environment.

Obstacle Courses and Relay Races

Get your toddlers moving and grooving with simple obstacle courses and relay races. Set up a mini obstacle course using everyday objects like cones, hoops, and tunnels to promote physical activity and friendly competition among the little ones. You could also add in a balance bike, these are another great way of enhancing a child’s development whilst offering loads of fun!

Free play

Never underestimate the power of free play, sometimes its a good idea to just let them get on with it and see what happens, unstructured outdoor play allows a child’s imagination to kick in youll be surprised at their own games they manage to create!

Safety Tips for Outdoor Play

As we delve into the exciting world of outdoor play for toddlers, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some essential tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for your little explorers.

Sun Protection and Hydration

When heading outdoors, remember to shield your toddler from the sun’s harmful rays.

-Dress them in lightweight, protective clothing and slather on some sunscreen with a high SPF.

-Hydration is key, so pack plenty of water to keep your little ones refreshed and energised during playtime.

-Vitamin D has lots of benefits, but we always bring our kiddy’s in between 11am and 1pm in the height of summer as too much time in the sun when its at its peak can be dangerous for young kids.

Weather wear

Getting outside when it’s sunny is great, BUT outdoor adventures can happen in all weather, its so important not to teach children to spend their lives waiting for a sunny day, dressed appropriately with hats, scarves, waterproof trousers, snow boots and wellies go out and feel the wind or jump in puddles!

Supervision and Boundaries

Close supervision is crucial when toddlers are engaging in outdoor activities. Keep a watchful eye on them and establish clear boundaries to ensure they stay safe. Create a designated play area free from potential hazards, allowing them to explore within a secure space.

Awareness of Surroundings

Encourage a sense of awareness in both parents and toddlers about the surroundings. Teach your little adventurers to respect nature and be mindful of potential risks like uneven terrain or small objects that could pose a danger. By fostering a respect for the environment, you’re not only keeping them safe but also instilling a love for the great outdoors.

When visiting new places, IE public parks, state parks your local playground always do a scan of the area first to ensure its safe, look out for things such as dog mess or broken glass.

Conclusion

In a world filled with screens and gadgets, getting toddlers outdoors is a breath of fresh air (literally!). The benefits are endless, from physical health to cognitive development, nature offers a wealth of opportunities for toddlers to explore, learn, and grow.

Anonymous man with baby on shoulders walking away

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Step outside and watch your little one’s eyes light up with excitement as they discover the wonders of the natural world. Whether it’s feeling the texture of grass under their tiny toes or spotting a colourful butterfly fluttering by, every moment outdoors is a new adventure waiting to unfold.

Nurture Creativity and Imagination

The outdoors is a playground for the imagination. Encourage your toddler to build sandcastles, play make-believe with sticks and stones, or create nature-inspired artwork using leaves and flowers. The possibilities are as endless as a meadow in spring.

Foster Physical and Mental Well-being

Running, jumping, climbing – outdoor play is a fun way for toddlers to stay active and develop their gross motor skills. The fresh air and natural light also do wonders for their mental well-being, helping them feel happier, more relaxed, and ready to take on the world.

Connect with Nature

By spending time outdoors, toddlers develop a deep appreciation for the world around them. From learning about different plants and animals to understanding the changing seasons, nature provides a hands-on classroom that fuels their curiosity and sense of wonder.

Endless Adventures Await

From picnics in the park to splashing in puddles after a rainy day, the great outdoors offers a treasure trove of experiences for toddlers to enjoy. So grab your wellies, pack a snack, and get ready for a world of fun and discovery right on your doorstep.

Let the Adventure Begin!

With so much to see, do, and explore outdoors, there’s no time to waste! So, lace up those shoes, put on a sunhat, and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your toddler in the wide and wonderful world outside. It’s time to make every day an outdoor adventure!

Parenting, Childminding

How to handle Temper Tantrums from your Toddler

Samantha keddy

Do you find yourself struggling to control your toddler’s temper tantrums?

Tantrums are a common occurrence in young children between the ages of 1 and 3.

They are a way for your child to express their frustration and communicate their needs. However, temper tantrums can be overwhelming for both the child and the parent.

Here I will provide you with effective strategies to help you control your toddler’s temper tantrums.

The first step in controlling a toddler’s temper tantrum is to understand why they are happening.

Tantrums can be triggered by hunger, fatigue, boredom, or frustration mainly.

By identifying the cause of the tantrum, you can take steps to prevent them from occurring in the future.

It is also important to recognise that tantrums are a normal part of your child’s development and not a reflection of your parenting skills.

Once you have identified the cause of the tantrum, you can take steps to address it. For example, if your child is hungry, offer them a healthy snack. If they are tired, put them down for a nap. If they are bored, engage them in an activity.

By addressing the root cause of the tantrum, you can prevent it from escalating.

Next, I will provide you with additional strategies to help you control your toddler’s temper tantrums.

Understanding Toddler Tantrums

As a parent, it can be frustrating and overwhelming when your toddler throws a temper tantrum. However, understanding the reasons behind these outbursts can help you manage them more effectively.

Common Triggers and Causes

Tantrums can be triggered by a variety of factors, including tiredness, hunger, and a need for attention. Toddlers may also become angry or frustrated when they are unable to communicate their needs effectively. Additionally, stress or feeling frustrated can contribute to emotional outbursts.

It’s important to note that tantrums are a normal part of child development and do not necessarily indicate a problem with your child’s behaviour. However, if tantrums are frequent or particularly severe, it may be worth seeking advice from a healthcare professional.

Developmental Aspects of Tantrums

Tantrums are a common occurrence in toddlers between the ages of 1 and 3. This is due, in part, to the fact that the frontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for impulse control and emotional regulation) is still developing during this time.

Toddlers may also engage in power struggles with their parents as they begin to assert their independence. This can lead to tantrums as they attempt to assert their will and control their environment.

By understanding the common triggers and developmental aspects of tantrums, you can better manage your toddler’s outbursts and help them develop healthy emotional regulation skills.

Preventing Tantrums

As a parent, you can prevent tantrums by establishing routines, promoting good behaviour and creating a supportive environment for your toddler. Here are some tips to help you prevent tantrums:

Establishing Routines

Toddlers thrive on routine, so one of the best things you can do is establish a regular schedule for meals, naps, playtime and bedtime. This will help your toddler feel more secure and in control, and reduce the likelihood of tantrums. Make sure to stick to the routine as much as possible, but also be flexible when necessary.

Promoting Good Behavior

Positive reinforcement is key to promoting good behaviour in toddlers. Praise your child when they exhibit positive behaviour, such as sharing or being kind to others. Use rewards, such as stickers or a favourite snack, to encourage positive behaviour. Set clear limits and consequences for negative behaviour, but also be consistent and fair in your discipline.

Creating a Supportive Environment

Create a supportive environment for your toddler by providing them with plenty of opportunities for play and exploration. Encourage your child to express themselves through art, music or play. Provide a calm and quiet space for your child to rest or have quiet time when needed. Make sure your child gets enough sleep, as tiredness can contribute to tantrums.

Following these tips should result in fewer tantrums from your toddler and create a positive and supportive environment for them to thrive in.

father reading bedtime story for his daughter while lying down on the bed

Responding to Tantrums

When your toddler throws a tantrum, it can be difficult to know how to respond. However, by staying calm and collected, providing safe and effective discipline, and offering comfort and reassurance, you can help your child learn to control their own emotions and behaviour.

Staying Calm and Collected

The first step in responding to a tantrum is to stay calm and collected yourself. This can be challenging, but it is important to avoid getting angry or frustrated, as this can escalate the situation. Take a couple of deep breaths, count to ten, and remind yourself that tantrums are a normal part of toddler development.

Safe and Effective Discipline

Discipline is an important part of responding to tantrums, but it is important to use safe and effective methods. Avoid physical punishment or shouting, as these can be dangerous and ineffective. Instead, ensure you maintain eye contact and try using time-outs or removing privileges as consequences for bad behaviour.

Comfort and Reassurance

Finally, it is important to provide comfort and reassurance to your toddler during and after a tantrum. It might be the last thing you want to do but its a good idea to offer a big hug and words of support, help your child understand their emotions and behaviour. Providing unconditional love will help them feel more secure and confident, and may reduce the frequency and intensity of future tantrums.

By responding to tantrums with calm, safe, and supportive methods, you can help your toddler learn to control their emotions and behaviour, and build a strong and positive relationship with them in the long run.

Special Considerations

Dealing with Public Tantrums

Dealing with a toddler’s temper tantrum in a public place can be a challenging and embarrassing experience for parents. It is important to remember that tantrums are a normal part of a child’s development and it is not a reflection of your parenting skills. Here are some tips to help you deal with public tantrums the best way:

Stay calm and composed: It is important to stay calm and composed during a tantrum. Take a deep breath and try to remain patient. Remember that your child is not trying to embarrass you intentionally.
Distract your child: Try to distract your child with something that can capture their attention. You can try to offer a toy, a book or a snack to divert their attention from the situation.
Leave the situation: If the tantrum is getting out of control, it may be best to remove your child from the situation. You can take them to a quiet area or to the car until they calm down.

When to Seek Professional Help

Temper tantrums are a normal part of a child’s development, but if they become frequent and intense, it may be a sign of an underlying problem. Here are some signs that you may need to seek professional help:

Your child’s tantrums are becoming more frequent and intense.
Your child is hurting themselves or others during a tantrum.
Your child’s tantrums are lasting longer than 15 minutes.
Your child’s tantrums are affecting their daily life, such as their sleep or eating habits.

If you are concerned about your child’s tantrums, you can talk to your doctor, health visitor, GP, or a paediatrician. They can help you identify any underlying issues such as anxiety or stress and provide you with appropriate support and guidance.

Fostering Independence and Emotional Skills

As a parent, it is important to foster your toddler’s independence and emotional skills. By doing so, you can help them develop self-regulation and better cope with strong emotions, reducing the likelihood of temper tantrums. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Encouraging Self-Regulation

Encouraging your toddler to develop a sense of control can help them regulate their emotions and reduce the likelihood of a temper tantrum. One way to do this is by giving them choices. For example, you could ask them if they would like to wear the red shirt or the blue shirt, or if they would like to play with blocks or dolls. This gives them a sense of control and helps them feel more independent.

Another way to encourage self-regulation is by giving your toddler space. When they are feeling overwhelmed or upset, it can be helpful to give them some time alone to calm down. This can help them learn to regulate their emotions and reduce the likelihood of a temper tantrum next time a similar situation occurs.

Developing Language and Expression

Language skills are an important part of emotional development. By helping your toddler develop their language skills, you can help them better express their emotions and reduce the likelihood of a temper tantrum. One way to do this is by encouraging your toddler to use words to express their emotions. For example, you could ask them how they are feeling or what is bothering them.

It is also important to validate your toddler’s emotions. When they are upset, it can be tempting to dismiss their feelings or tell them to stop crying. However, this can make them feel like their emotions are not important. Instead, try to acknowledge their feelings and let them know that you understand why they are upset.

Help them identify and label their feelings, using emotion based activities could like this one Childrens emotions Playdough Cards activity game

photo of a man raising baby under blue sky

Good Luck

Frequently Asked Questions

What strategies can effectively manage a two-year-old’s severe tantrums?

There are several strategies that can be effective in managing severe tantrums in two-year-old’s. One approach is to remain calm and patient while acknowledging your child’s feelings. You can also try distraction techniques or redirecting your child’s attention to another activity. Consistency in discipline and setting clear boundaries can also be helpful.

When should one become concerned about the frequency and intensity of a toddler’s tantrums?

If your toddler’s tantrums are frequent, intense, and interfere with their daily functioning or social interactions, it may be a cause for concern. It is important to consult with your child’s healthcare provider if you have any concerns about their behaviour.

What are the recommended approaches for handling tantrums in 18-month-old toddlers?

For 18-month-old toddlers, distraction techniques and redirection can be effective in managing tantrums. It is also important to establish a consistent routine and to be patient and calm when dealing with tantrums.

What techniques are advised for managing a three-year-old’s extreme temper outbursts?

For three-year-old’s, it is important to acknowledge their feelings and provide them with a safe space to express their emotions. Setting clear boundaries and consistent discipline can also be effective in managing extreme temper outbursts. Positive reinforcement and praise for good behaviour can also be helpful.

How can parents address their toddler’s aggressive behaviour, such as hitting, during a tantrum?

It is important to remain calm and firm when addressing aggressive behaviour during a tantrum. It may be helpful to remove your child from the situation and provide them with a safe space to calm down. Consistent discipline and setting clear boundaries can also be effective in addressing aggressive behaviour.

At what developmental stage do children typically outgrow the tendency to have temper tantrums?

Children typically outgrow the tendency to have temper tantrums by the age of four. Older children should have far fewer toddler temper tantrums, especially if you’ve followed the advise above and have identified tantrum triggers, helped your child learn to communicate and express themselves and discussed your child’s emotions with them so that they know how to deal with those big feelings.

Parenting, Activities, Childminding

Quick & Simple Playdough Recipe

Samantha keddy

After lots of googling and trying different methods, this is my favourite recipe for playdough, Its so simple that you can involve the children in the making of it as well as letting them go crazy creating when its made!

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup salt
2 tablespoons cream of tartar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1.5 cups boiling water
Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and cream of tartar together.
Add the vegetable oil to the dry mixture and stir well.
If you want colored playdough, add a few drops of food coloring to the boiling water. You can use different colors for different batches.
Gradually pour the boiling water into the bowl, stirring continuously. Be cautious as the mixture will be hot.
Mix everything together until a dough forms. Once it becomes difficult to stir with a spoon, knead the dough with your hands.
If the dough is too sticky, add more flour in small amounts until it reaches a smooth and pliable consistency.
Allow the playdough to cool completely before playing with it.

Variations:

Scented Playdough: Add a few drops of essential oils or extracts like lavender, peppermint, or lemon to the dough while mixing. This will give your playdough a delightful scent.
Glitter Playdough: Mix in glitter or glitter glue to make sparkly playdough. This can add a touch of magic and excitement to your creations.
Textured Playdough: Incorporate various textures into your playdough by adding items like sand, rice, or small pasta shapes. This will create a unique sensory experience.
Natural Playdough: Use natural food coloring or natural ingredients such as beetroot juice, turmeric, or cocoa powder to color your playdough. It’s a great way to explore different hues while avoiding artificial colors.
Edible Playdough: Make playdough that is safe to eat by using edible ingredients like peanut butter, honey, powdered sugar, and dry milk. This version is perfect for young children who may be tempted to taste it.

Remember to store your playdough in an airtight container or plastic bag when not in use to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. Enjoy your playdough creations!

Childminding, Parenting

The best home treatment for head lice (nits) 2024

Samantha keddy

As a parent or childcare provider your bound to come across these little guys at least once in your life!! There is nothing to be ashamed of, they exist and are very common among children 3-11 years, it’s just part of life, now if you’re on this page I’m guessing you’re not really interested in the anatomy of a louse, nor its life cycle, and that the reality is you just want me to get the the point and advise you of the best way to be rid? So over the years I have tried lots of both over the counter treatments and home remedies, but I’m just going to jump in and tell you the 2 methods I would recommend.

Over the counter treatments

I’ve tried many over the counter treatments and I can’t begin to remember all the names, but I do remember that this is my favourite………………Reasons why include:

It kills the eggs as well as the lice
It works in as little as 15 minutes
It doesn’t smell
It doesn’t require endless combing through
It washes out easily
And most importantly, it works!!!

https://keddykiddycare.com/headlicetreatment

Home Remedy

If you’r not a big fan of chemicals and costly treatments then, wet combing also works. The best way of doing this is using your favourite conditioner and totally covering the hair, then section off the hair and use a special nit comb like the one below to go through the hair a bit at a time, the conditioner allows the eggs to easily slide down the hair and the special design of the comb ensures that nothing is left behind.

There is obviously a cost involved in buying a comb like this but unlike the treatments once you have the comb you can use it again and again. There are also cheaper versions available but I own the original Nitty Gritty comb and wouldn’t want to recommend something I haven’t actually tried.

https://keddykiddycare.com/NittyGritty

Don’t Forget

Whichever method you choose also wash the person’s pillowcase and soak their hairbrush in hot water for at least 10 minutes. Live lice can only survive away from the scalp for around 24 hours so please don’t over complicate it but the hairbrush and pillowcases are a must (and if the person in question happens to be hat wearer then pop the hat in a hot wash too).

Its also a good idea to notify people that have been in contact too, it may seem a little embarrassing but the last thing you want is for someone else to have them and end up passing them back to you or your family.

Prevention is better than the cure

I know this whole article may seem backwards, leaving this till last instead of the starting here, but I’ve been there, found a crawler and needed answers, then preventing into the future comes later! If your lucky enough to be reading this before finding an investation then I’m sorry for making you wait to get to the bit you need!!

To try and prevent your child bringing nits home in the first place start by trying to ensure that hair is always tied up for school, nursery or their childcare setting. This doesn’t have to be boring, play around with different styles, plaits, twists, buns, piggy tails etc, there’s lots of tutorials on youtube you could attempt.

Try to teach your child to avoid sharing items such as hats, bobbles, hairbands and earmuffs.

Headlice also don’t like the smell of teatree, so a simple way to repell them is to add 3-5 drops of teatree essential oil to your child’s shampoo when washing their hair.

Personally I really liked Voscene products, past tense as my daughters are now teens so we don’t use it anymore, but this one is the kind liked, you can use it daily as a de-tangler whilst the smell repels lice without being too prominent that friends notice a funny aroma!

https://keddykiddycare.com/headlicerepellent

Good luck

Finally, try not to worry, I have found myself obsessed, in tears and totally overwhelmed in the past but the methods above work. You will get rid and it will be over soon!

Childminding

Childcare Paperwork

Samantha keddy

Paperwork is one of a childminders biggest worries, which is why i have taken the time to collaborate my most useful items and turn them into an organiser that anyone can use.

This organiser is an instant PDF, meaning that you can print as many of any of the sheets you want, whenever you want forever!!

Daily planner sheets

These sheets are dateless so they can be used whenever, they include a space to record your register, your expenses that day, your planned activities and food and your to do list. There is also room to include your fridge and freezer temperatures and record that your daily checks have been completed.

Annual Paperwork Planner

This is what i use so that things are spread out over the year and i don’t have a mad rush attempting to make sure everything is up-to date and correct in January (like i did in the past). I have included a sample to show how i tend to do it, just little things like updating my menus each September as that’s when we normally have a few new starters who’s tastes or diets may differ from previous children.

I also have to complete termly staff supervisions as i work with assistants so these may not apply to you, but that’s the beauty of this planner, you only need to print the pages that you want. If something doesn’t appeal or apply to you then don’t use it!

Annual Topic Planner

This again may not be to everyone’s liking, as we don’t have to follow topics at all, and trust me alot of our days we don’t even mention a topic, but i do like to have one floating in the background. It is important to introduce new learning into a child’s life and a topic is a fun way to do this. We spend most days following a child’s interests and planning activities from there, but there are times that you find yourself stuck and having a topic gives you some activity ideas to fall back on. I’ve included a sample sheet with some of my favourite topics to give you some inspiration. I will be adding new topic packs to my etsy store throughout the year so please check in there every now and again too

Setting dates sheet

As simple as it sounds, its very handy to have your important dates wrote down.

Enquiries/waiting list

This is something i didn’t bother with for quite sometime, i’d then have a space become available and would have scroll through my texts, messenger, whatsapp and childcare.co.uk messages to find who had been enquiring before i could get back in touch with them. So i created this sheet so all the details are together and its much easier to keep on track of who i have been speaking with.

Funding details

Ensuring that parents have validated their 30 hour funding codes is important so that you don’t have any issues when claiming the funding. So i find keeping all the information you need to run an eligibility check or process your claim in one place together very helpful.

Resource wish list

Again simple but effective, they’ll be many times that a child will develop a new interest and you’ll think of a resource that will support them well, use this log to make note of it until you can make the purchase. Plus the many times you will see other childminders set ups on faceboook and fancy the toys/equipment they have, if you don’t jot it down you soon forget. Training is another place where you get resource inspiration so remember to use this log after training too.

Training record

Its handy for yourself to keep a record of your essential training so you always know when to renew it, First aid is every 3 years but safegaurding can vary depending on your local authority. You can also log any additional training you do hear so that its easy to referre to when OFSTED visit and you want to tell them what you’ve done since your last inspection.

Visitor log

Like it says, a log for your visitors.

Fire drill/evacuation log

A log for your fire drills and evacuations, remember to carry these out on different days of the week to ensure that everyone is taking part.

Monthly Expense sheets

12 of these to track every expense. These include the allowable percentages you can deduct for your household bills. Remember, any transaction over £10 in one day you need to keep your receipt for.

Yearly Expense sheet

Move your monthly totals to this annual log so hat you can calculate your expenses for the year.

Income/payment log

Keep a log of all your income by tracking what invoices are due and when they are paid.

Tax calculation sheet

A simple sheet to get your tax figures ready. Income, wear and tear and expenses.

Emergency contacts sheet

Print as many of these as you need depending on the amount of children in your care. I have a copy in a first aid kit in my car and another copy in another first aid kit i carry out and about with us.

Topic plan

Now this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and it definitely isn’t needed, i just included one as i sometimes like a bit of planning making sure i’m covering all areas

Weekly plan

This isn’t something i would fill out every week, most of our weeks have a loose routine that’s similar week in week out. But i find a planner like this particularly useful when the school holidays are approaching and our routine is going to be different, i can write who is booked in and plan around that. Please feel free to use it however you desire though.

buy now

Parenting, Childminding

Preschool Printables

Samantha keddy

Impact-Site-Verification: 0b7bc05a-0040-42f2-8265-2890ac139bf5

I’m going to keep this short and sweet but I just wanted to write this post introducing our new Etsy store!

https://keddykiddycare.etsy.com

Here we are building a collection of printable’s including colouring pages, worksheets and activities aimed at children aged 2-8 years. These are the kind of resources I have used myself as a childminder over the years or things I wish I could have found so have developed myself.

It’s important to always be introducing new learning into a child’s life, so with that in mind we are building packs around different topics to help expand different areas of children’s learning. (IE animals, weather, buildings, transport etc).

If you are a childcare provider I hope you’ll find these packs particularly useful in your setting, many of the items have been designed to be laminated and used again and again, so a fantastic investment for a setting.
With that being said our prices are so cheap that even as a parent using them as a onetime purchase for your child they are more than affordable.

Aswell as our topic packs we cover the basics of numbers, letters, shapes and colours please take a look around our store.

There will be new items added to the store each week so add us to your favourites and watch us grow.

If there is something in particular you are looking for please drop us a comment, we would love to try and help.

Thank you xx

Childminding

Childminding and your own children

Samantha keddy

A lot of new childminders or those in the pre reg state want to know how childminding may affect their own children, so here I’m going to hand the keyboard over to my 11 year old daughter, having a childminder as a mum is all she remembers since I begun when she was just 2 years old, everything you read from here on are all her own thoughts and words, hope you enjoy xx

Hi, I’m Caitlyn

I’m 11 years old and I have just left primary school, I’m about to start secondary school. Ever since I can remember my house has always been full of children but I don’t mind as I have made lots of friends that way that I still keep in touch with to this day.

Joining In:

During the holidays, I love to join in with the activities that my mum and dad put on for the other children. One of my favourite activities to do is Slime making.

I enjoy doing painting which sometimes turns into a competition. I have once painted a unicorn which is now on display on our craft room wall.

When we do baking its always very fun because sometimes I get to help out and be in charge and we also make lots and lots of different foods that sometimes fail but always taste really yummy!!

We often run weekly talent shows on the Fridays of each holiday week. All children that want to participate showcase their favourite talents, this can be singing, dancing, telling jokes, magic and even ventriloquist acts! All participants receive a prize at the end. I love to join in and think of something different to do each time.

Mum has to ensure that the children get plenty of outdoor play. So sometimes we run races and get to have a fun time running around outside. We have done obstical courses, water fights, silly races, egg and spoon races, treasure hunts and lots of other fun games.

Sometimes we go out places for example we have been to: Parks, Play areas, feeding the ducks, soft plays and Rotherham by the sea.

Teaching

I sometimes help my parents by teaching the children different things. Like for example I have often read books to the children and they have read to me.

I also enjoy doing the singing sessions by myself, singing nursery rhymes with the children.

I have run games outside like tig, crocodile swamp and sometimes I have even created my own games that younger children and older children enjoy to play.

Helping out:

On Thursdays in the holidays My mum and dad take the children to a playgroup and when we’re there I play with some of the little children and let them invent games that I will join in with. I also supervise children going in and out of the toilet and help my mum dish out the children’s breakfasts and clear away their pots afterwards.

I also enjoy helping out at home at lunch times by dishing out meals and feeding the babies. I also dish out the children’s desserts.

Sometimes in the mornings when the children are only just arriving, I ask them what they would like for their meals that day and note it down ready for my mum and dad.

Conclusion

My house is always busy and noisy but I wouldn’t want it any other way, I love knowing my mum and dad are always at home when I need them, through primary school they were always able to take me and pick me up and attend my shows and assemblies and most of the time we have lots of fun!

How will becoming a childminder affect my own children?

Parenting, Childminding

Healthy meals and portion advice for children

Samantha keddy

As a childcare provider you don’t have to provide meals, you can ask parents to send packed lunches. Personally I like to know I’m giving the children a nice healthy hot meal at lunchtime.

As a parent many of us struggle to know if we are feeding our children the right things, so here are some of my favourites.

Healthy meals need variety

As adults we are often told we need to cut this and that out of our diet to remain at a healthy weight and wonder if the same applies to our children, I would advise not (I would advise not for adults too, but we’ll not get into that). It’s also important to introduce children to a wide variety of foods and when doing so remember that it can take between 8-15 attempts of new foods before a child will know for sure if they like it or not.

A balanced diet should consist of food from all 5 food groups;

bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods,
fruit and vegetables,
milk, cheese and yogurt,
meat, fish, eggs, nuts and pulses
foods high in fat and sugar.

Meal Routine

A good mealtime routine for children is very helpful in building healthy eating habits. Children’s appetites will vary from day to day depending on their activity levels and things such as growth spurts but sticking to a regular meal routine offering the right amount of foods will help ensure your child isn’t going to go hungry. A good example of a meal routine that works well for us is:

Breakfast
Healthy Snack
Lunch
Snack
Evening meal
Small supper

Portion Sizes

Healthy portion sizes are very important, too often younger children are served far too much and then made to feel bad when they can’t clear their plate, I highly recommend serving smaller potions on smaller plates and offering plenty of praise to a child that eats it all then you can always offer more if needed. Ikea sell some really good child-sized plates. Below I have included a small range of meal potions but obviously can’t list everything, it’s a good idea to remember when serving your child’s food that they only have small tummies, it is true that their stomach is only about the size of their clenched fist so a child’s portion is probably smaller than you’d have imagined.

Food group 1, bread, rice, pasta etc should be offered with each meal and can also be used for snack times. But remember your portion sizes, a child under four years only needs half – one slice of bread, 1-3 bread sticks, 2-5 tablespoons of rice, 2-5 tablespoons of pasta or 3-6 tablespoons of cereal.

Food group 2, fruit and vegetables, offer a variety of fruits, at least one with each meal, preferably two. Also use as a snack. Again the serving size of these are probably smaller than your expecting, a child under four may only need a quarter of an apple or banana but as these foods are highly nutritious you can feel free to let the children eat higher quantities if they want to. If you happen to have a fussy eater that isn’t overly keen on fruit then try fruit juice instead,

Food group 3, milk, cheese and yogurt. These foods should be offered around 3 times a day, these foods can reduce appetite for iron-containing foods from other food groups so don’t want to be eaten in excess. Typical portions of these would be; 1 cup of milk (100-120ml, 3-4oz) this should be in a cup, bottles are only for children under 1 year. 1 cheese triangle, string or Babybel is a full portion for a child under four, and 1 small yogurt is enough.

Food group 4, meat, fish, eggs, nuts and pulses. These should be served twice a day for a young child that includes the meat and fish but 3 times a day if the child is a vegetarian. Typical portions for a child under four would be; a quarter – one small beef burger, 2-4 small nuggets, 1/4 -1 medium sausage. 1/4-1 small fish. 1/4-1 full egg. 1-2 tablespoons of nuts. 2-4 tablespoons of baked beans, 2-4 tablespoons of tofu.

Food group 5, foods high in fat. These foods should only be offered once a day, they offer enjoyment but are low in nutrition and if high in sugar can cause tooth decay. So only small amounts are recommended; half – one chocolate coated biscuit, 2-4 tablespoons of cake, 6-8 chocolate buttons, 1 small cup of popcorn are all sufficient for a child under four.

Quick guide

Use this free printable as a quick guide to serving the right amount of food at home.

As far as drinks are concerned we are recommended to only offer water and milk. Soft drinks are not recommended for early years children.

Our Favourite meals

Chicken nuggets, air fried chips with peas
Tomato pasta with fresh tomatoes’
Rice and meatballs, with a side of carrot and cucumber sticks
Lasagne with garlic bread and sweetcorn
Beef and vegetable stew with dumplings
Fish, new potatoes and mushy peas
Chicken pasta with mushrooms
Beans, sausages and hash browns
Chicken and vegetable soup with Yorkshire puddings
Spaghetti bolognese
Fish pie with cooked carrots

Our Favourite snacks

Individual fruit
Chopped mixed fruit (please, please, please slice grapes)
Toast with a variety of toppings
Malt loaf
Carrot and cucumber sticks
Cheese and crackers
Celery with peanut butter
Raisins
Ice pops
Bread sticks and hummus
Nuts
Strawberries and ice cream
Popcorn
Yogurts (although we often use these as desert)

Food Allergies in Children

Defining Food Allergies

Food allergies are a common problem among children. This is a condition where the immune system reacts to certain proteins found in food as if they are harmful. The body produces antibodies to fight off the proteins, which results in an allergic reaction. Food allergies can be mild or severe, and in some cases, life-threatening.

Common Allergens

The most common food allergens in children are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. These allergens can be found in many foods, so it’s important to read the food label carefully. Some children may also have allergies to other foods or ingredients.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe and may include hives, itching, swelling, vomiting, diarrhoea, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, a child may experience anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction.

If you suspect your child has a food allergy, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor may perform a skin prick test or blood test to determine if your child has an allergy. In some cases, an oral food challenge may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

Conclusion

I hope you’ve gained something by reading this, if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask me, i’d also love to hear about any of your favourite family meals

Thanks for reading,

Samantha x

Childminding

Recommended Childminding Resources

Samantha keddy

One of the first things pre registered childminders ask is what things they will need, there is no quick answer to this as there are many things you may find useful over the years, so here we will go through some of the childminding resources I have and would recommend;

Safety equipment

The only thing OFSTED advised me personally that I needed to have was a safety blanket, and this has to be attached to your wall in your kitchen, so this would definitely be a priority.

OFSTED also expect all childminders to have a fully equipped first aid kit.

Plug safety caps are no longer recommended there is new evidence that these can be more dangerous than an open socket, so don’t waste your time with these.

I use baby gates, I don’t have doors downstairs and use gates instead to keep the children out of the kitchen and my dogs where I want them, you don’t have to use baby gates this is definitely personal choice, though I would recommend door stoppers for your doors if you have them to prevent trapped fingers.

If children will be spending any time in your kitchen then you should invest in some cupboard catches, you can pick these up on amazon fairly cheap and they are easy to fit, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Travel equipment

If you don’t drive, please don’t worry, I know plenty of childminders that get on great without driving, but I do drive so here I’m going to cover some of the stuff I have for travel.

Car seats, buy these as and when you need them but you will more than likely end up needing a variety, hand held ones for younger babies, fixed rear facing ones and high back booster seats, the regulations on car seats has changed many times over the years so make sure you stay upto date with current requirements using the government website https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules, it’s also useful to weigh and measure the children often to ensure they’re still in the correct seats.

Pushchairs, I have 2 singles, a double, and a triple, again this is a very personal choice, I experimented and found I preferred a tandem double to a side by side. But then my triple is side by side and is a breeze to push………this is a baby jogger which I highly recommend! You also want to make sure you have rain covers and cosy toes for any pram you chose as you’ll be out and about in all weather.

Again you’ll want a first aid kit, these can be mini travel ones, I have one in my car and another under my pushchair.

Mealtime/drink equipment

Water bottles, children need to have access to drinking water at all times, so I find that sports cap type water bottles are the best for a busy environment………this way you don’t have to worry about cups being knocked over, you can ask parents to send these but I prefer everyone to have the same so no-one gets upset and you don’t risk parents sending juice.

I use one of these label makers to personalise our water bottles, you can use different colours and add little images along with the child’s name to make it easy for them to spot which is theirs, I also use it to make matching stickers for the children’s coat pegs and draws too.

You can get yours here https://keddykiddycare.com/labelmaker

Plastic cups, although you may have bottles children need to learn how to drink from a proper cup so we use plastic cups at meals and snack times.

Plates, knifes, forks, spoons etc. What I do, but you’ll find your own way is colour co-ordinate everything so each child has an apron, bought in bulk from amazon – https://keddykiddycare.com/kiddyaprons , plastic plate and cutlery (IKEA) in their colour, I find this helps them feel part of our home, and it’s very useful to me when dishing up meals.

Booster chairs/high chairs. I’m not a massive fan of highchairs but it’s useful to have one especially if you end up with a under one year old. Once they hit one I like them to join in at the table, so I’ve always been a fan of booster chairs for the table, they are easy to fit into your home without taking over and they add hight and security where needed. You can find the ones i like here https://keddykiddycare.com/boosterhighchair

Toys

I’ll try not to go on forever here as obviously there’s sooooooo many to choose from, I’ll start with my most recommended and work my way down, well I like them all but tried to rank them a little,

Books,

Fancy dress,

Play kitchen with foods, pots and pans,

Construction area,

Building blocks,

Small world play (peppa pigs, weebles, little people, barbies, dinosaurs, etc)

Ride ons,

Climbing equipment (inc swings and slide if possible)

Sand and water play,

Craft equipment (paints, pens, pencils, chalk,gliiter, glue, etc)

Puzzles,

Educational supplies (alphabet cards, number games, dominos etc)

Dolls and prams,

Transport play,

Hamma beads,

Loom bands,

Cuddlies and puppets,

Lego,

Tabet’s,

Camera’s,

Car tyres and wooden planks,

Musical instruments,

Magnifying glasses,

Play dough (including: cutters, knifes and rollers etc)

Other

Random items you may also need would be a printer, many parents need letters printing for proof of payment, I also print termly reports, and children like to have colouring pages printed off regularly, i use a HP Envy which has an instant ink option so you never run out of ink, this has been a game changer for me! Take a look here https://keddykiddycare.com/printer

Smartphone/camera……..I’m mainly internet based so these are a priority

Travel cots and baby monitor if you don’t have space available for children to sleep in sight

Outdoor clothing for children, I provide wellies and coats (normally gifted from local parents) and have a collection of waterproof trousers……..these are all for if the garden is muddy. children still attend in their own coats and shoes!

Wet wipes, changing mat, nappy sacks,

Spare everything…………….pants, trousers, tights, skirts, dresses, tops, sun hats, sun cream, gloves, woolly hats, scarves

Patience

and finally lots and lots of wine!!!!! For after working hours obviously.

Finally

Remember to keep receipts for EVERYTHING you purchase over £10, they can all be put through your accounts as expenses to reduce your tax bill.

I hope I’ve covered everything but I’m sure there will be something I have forgotten so please comment below if there is anything you would like to add or ask

Samantha x

Childminding

A little about childminding

Samantha keddy

So, here I’m hoping to give you an insight into my life as a UK childminder, so anyone considering a career in home based childcare please read on and I really hope you find this useful.

Be a full time mum and your own boss

My main reason to become a childminder was to enable me to stay with my own children, whilst earning money, so if you are a mum (or dad) desperately looking for a way to earn money whilst being around for your children then this might be the perfect job for you………… It also helps to quite like children!

I take my own children to and from school each day,

I manage to make most school assemblies and shows,

I never work a late night or a weekend,

My children have never been short of someone to play with,

I have freedom to spend the days as I choose (within reason, I can’t exactly have a glass of wine with lunch!)

Childminding ratios…… Who am I allowed to care for?

Once your fully registered there are 2 OFSTED registers: the Early Years Register and the Childcare Register as long as you join both of these you can provide care for;

A total of six children under 8 years,

Of which only three children under 5 years,

Only one of which can be under 1 years.

You can also provide care for children over 8 years old providing it doesn’t affect the care you are giving the younger children, your insurance will determine the maximum amount you can have and for a single childminder it’s normally around 12.

Childminding fees

Your fees need to be in line with others in your area, so do your research, don’t undercut people but don’t price yourself out of the market, parents will choose you as their provider when they like what they see, there’s more important aspects than just your price.

I found that just taking on one child full time provided me with the same income as my part-time call centre job, the child I had was the same age as my eldest daughter and they got on great, we had so much fun visiting parks, farms and much more just me, my 2 daughters and this one additional child.

If you were to fill all of your spaces, for example 3 children full time, and 3 older children before and after school each day you’d easily be making a decent income, where I am based here in Yorkshire that would equate to £750 a week (costs in 2022), but like I mentioned before fees vary a lot over the country and I’m led to believe here in Yorkshire is one of the lowest rates there are.

A typical day in the life of a childminder

I chose my working hours to be 7am – 6pm but this is your choice I know lots of childminders that don’t start till gone 8am, and some that close at 5pm, there’s even a few that just offer similar to school hours 9-3.

So I’m always up around an hour before, enjoy a coffee in peace, write out my register for the day, have a quick tidy round and gather my thoughts for the day ahead.

I wake my children around 6.45 so they’re dressed and downstairs for 7am

Children start arriving from 7am and I serve breakfast until 7.30.

Then they relax with TV in the living room or toys in the playroom

At 8 we get ready for school and set off on our school run at 8.15

I get home around 9am, I’m a big believer in freeplay and outdoor play so we tend to head out to the garden till 11, fruit is available when the children are hungry, we have

Water play,

Sand,

Playdough,

Musical instruments,

Books,

A climbing frame, with swings, slide, trapeze bar & ladder,

Mud kitchen,

Ride ons,

Trampoline,

Tyres and planks

Constuction area,

Chalk board and chalk,

Barbie house and toys

All available in the garden, the playroom is still open with too many toys to list, plus we have a craft room where we do painting, drawing, puzzles and games etc.

I normally manage a coffee in this time………. We watch the children playing, extending their play and supporting their language but without interfering.

At 11am I bring the children indoors, we have a tidy, I check nappies and change them if needed then I read a story before lunch, the benefit of working alongside my hubby is that he now makes lunch, but as a sole childminder I never found it a problem.

After Lunch everyone tries the toilet then we sing songs before I open the garden back up around 1pm.

Younger children tend to nap at this time.

The children then go back to their own play, using their imaginations and learning the whole time, we are always aware of our children’s capabilities and provide opportunities for them to progress further continuously.

A few of our under 5 year children leave around 3pm

We set off to school just before 3pm and walk there and back, I tend to work to my maximum numbers so normally collect around 6 children including a couple of over 8s.

When we get home they have some snack around 4.15pm then play till home time, the latest children leave at 6pm but we’re normally fairly quite by 5pm.

During the day we keep a register as children come and go, we record daily info for parents ie sleep, nappy changes, bottles etc. We observe and note any new learning or developments we see from the children. We take photos to share with parents. We keep the children safe and offer plenty of opportunities for learning following the same framework as nurseries.

This is an average day, we also enjoy going to our local playgroup every Thursday, we visit parks, farms, soft play, we walk our puppy, we go to feed the ducks, we even nip to tesco sometimes!

How to become a childminder in the UK…….

If you think this maybe the career for you, the first thing to do is get in touch with you local authority and they will support you through the registration process, which goes like this:

Complete an introduction course (around 20hrs)
Complete a 2-day paediatric first aid certificate
Be Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked.
Have a health check completed by your doctor.
Have appropriate insurance cover, including Public Liability Insurance.
Apply to OFSTED who will come out and do a pre reg check, like an interview for you and a safety check of your home.
Ensure you are in the eyfs and compulsory childcare registers.

There’s lots of information out there on the legal requirements etc but what I wanted to do today was share a more personal insight as I can’t see much of that around (I guess most childminders are just too busy!) I hope you’ve found it useful and feel free to leave any questions and comments and I will get back to you.

There’s lots more I want to talk about….. How I track learning and development, advertising, communicating with parents, OFSTED and inspections, required paperwork and probably much more please let me know anything you’d like to know more on,

Samantha x