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Welcome to Samantha Stead

ABOUT ME

My name is Samantha Stead and I have been a childminder since August 2001. I am a member of ‘The Childminding Network’ that means I am a ‘Quality Assured Childminder’.

As well as the Network I belong to :

‘The National Childminding Association’
‘Heworth Childminding Group’
‘Hempland Early Years Shared Foundation’

MY FAMILY

My husband is called Jason, he works for commercial services, and we have 2 children, Ryan and Shannon who both attend Hempland School.

Also in our home we have a variety of pets, which most children find both fascinating and amusing!!

BACKGROUND

Before becoming a childminder I had quite a lot of involvement with Stockton Lane Playgroup, this led to my decision to take care of children. Both Ryan and Shannon attended the playgroup and I volunteered as chairperson. I kept this role on for 2 years.

QUALIFICATIONS

I feel one of the best qualifications I have is that of being a parent myself. There’s nothing quite like hands on experience. I hold a current paediatric first aid certificate and have completed the ‘Introduction Into Childminding Practice’ Course. At present I am doing the ‘Developing Childminding Course’ and am working towards a level three childcare qualification. I also have met the criteria to become a quality assured network childminder and as a result of this will soon be getting accredited.

WHAT I OFFER

My home is a very welcoming place I like both parents and children to feel relaxed and comfortable. I feel this is fundamental to my setting as it sets the basis for a successful partnership. I offer a wide range of activities both in and out doors, which will allow children to have hands on experience. All children’s needs are taken into account. All areas of learning are worked through but in a play based setting so the children do not realise they are learning anything because they are hopefully having too much fun!!

I essentially like to make the children feel they are in a second home as this is both reassuring for them and the parent/carer.