My name is Collette Hatton. I am 38 years old and have been an Ofsted Registered Childminder since March 2014.
I live with my husband Gary and our daughter Poppy Joan (3). I also have 2 dogs, Lola is a chocolate Labrador and Skye is a black/white Staffy. I have lived in Woodbridge since 2006. I love where I live and feel lucky to be able to bring up my own child in such a lovely area. Poppy is in my full time care at home. I have a beautiful large garden with numerous play equipment to allow children space to run around and equipment to offer physical challenges. I have a large paddock and stables, which are rented out to 3 beautiful horses. I also have an enclosed chicken coop, which will soon have chickens in. These animals are great learning tools to allow children to learn about different animals.
As a busy mother, I am well aware of the demands and responsibilities involved in caring for children. I have no doubt that the experiences that I have had already with bringing up my own child help me in my role as a Childminder. I understand how challenging it can be to care for children with varying abilities, needs and interests.
As part of my pre-registration training, I successfully completed the CACHE Level 3 “Understand how to set up a home based childcare service”. The course covered a wide range of subjects including child protection, health and safety, child development and behaviour management. During the course of this year I have obtained my Paediatric First Aid Certificate for babies and young children. I also make full use of the training workshops provided by the Early Years Team and by the local college as they become available covering a variety of areas from child development and special needs to play experiences and nutrition and hygiene. I believe it is vitally important to continue to further my training and refresh my skills in order for me to provide a good quality childcare service.
In addition to the above I believe that the following experience & skills will also assist me in providing a successful Childminding service:
I have the experience of being a mother to a very happy and well- balanced daughter.
I have a very creative background. I will utilise my artistic talents and ideas when doing art and craftwork with children.
I am a fit and active individual with plenty of energy to provide children with a stimulating environment with a wide variety of fun and educational activities.
I regularly attend playgroups where I have the opportunity to speak with other Childminders and listen to their experiences and advice.