Care of disabled children
Childminders
and nannies are ideally placed to care for disabled children and
those with special educational needs (SEN) because of their
flexibility and home setting.
Childminders and nannies are a great choice for caring for
disabled children because:
- childminders care for small groups of children, so they are
able to offer individual care, taking into account the particular
requirements of a specific child, and work in close partnership
with parents
- childminding is flexible in the hours offered - up to two
thirds of NCMA members are willing to provide care during early
mornings (before 8am) and evenings (after 7pm)
- siblings can be cared for together
- childminders are often available close to the family’s
home
- a nanny can live in the family home
- parents can claim help with childcare costs via childcare
vouchers.
Many registered childminders have expertise in caring
for disabled children. According to NCMA's 2010
membership survey,
more than a third of members have undertaken specific training
into caring for disabled children and those with additional needs.
A solid understanding of children’s development and how to provide
for them enables childminders and nannies to include disabled
children in their setting.
Real life experiences
Denise Evans and Janet Pentony are childminders in Cardiff who
care for disabled children. Read about their experiences by
following the link on the right.
Specialist charities
Although Scope is known
primarily as a cerebral palsy charity it offers a wide range of
training and free download resources for parents and practitioners
on all disabilities and impairments. You can also access their web
tool, Celebrate every step. The tool enables parents and the team
around a child to track progress in young children with complex
support needs through play.
Related Links
