A list of all the essential and useful documents that childminders must be aware of in one handy place. The documents that you MUST use have a yellow button.
If you bookmark this page then you’ll be able to find it next time you need it.
Last Updated 25/02/2022 (Edited the layout to make it more user friendly and added additional documents or websites mentioned in the EYFS, as well as useful Covid related documents.)
Essential Early Years Documents
Statutory Framework For The Early Years Foundation Stage
This is the document all childminders in England MUST follow
Ofsted Parent’s Poster
You must display this poster where parents can see it. It contains information about how they can contact Ofsted.
Essential Inspection Related Documents
Early Years Inspection Handbook
This handbook describes the main activities that inspectors undertake when they carry out inspections of early years providers in England. The handbook also sets out the judgements that inspectors will make and on which they will report. It is very useful to read if you are due an inspection.
Inspecting Safeguarding in the Early Years, Education and Skills Settings
Guidance for Ofsted inspectors to use when inspecting safeguarding under the education inspection framework. Useful to read if you have an inspection due.
Essential Safeguarding Documents
Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
You MUST have regard for this document.
What to do if you are worried that a child is being abused
You may also find this document useful if you are worried about a child.
The Prevent duty: Protecting children from radicalisation
You MUST have regard for this document.
Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations
Guidance to help those who work in early years settings consider their practice and to take steps to safeguard both children and adults online.
Useful Assessment/ Child Development Documents
Development Matters – Published by the Department of Education
You can use this document to help you assess children’s progress. However, it is not compulsory.
Birth to 5 Matters
Non-statutory guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage developed by the Early Years Coalition.
Progress Check at Age 2 – Non Statutory Guidance
Useful Health and Safety Documents
Safer Food Better Business for Childminders
Food safety management pack for registered childminders or child-carers on domestic premises who usually provide meals and drinks for the children in their care.
Health Protection in Schools and other Childcare Facilities
A practical guide for staff on managing cases of infectious diseases in schools and other childcare settings.
Physical Activity Guidelines from the Chief Medical Office
As mentioned in the EYFS
Useful Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Documents
SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years
Useful Financial and Tax Documents
HMRC list of allowable expenses for childminders
Essential information about which expenses you can legally deduct.