Kids-r-Us Childcare, Doncaster.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
What does it offer? Kids-r-Us Childcare is a home-based setting run by childminder Janice Jinks. Those in her care include three children with autism and one who has Asperger's syndrome. Jinks has been a foster carer for 23 years, and has looked after a lot of children with additional needs.
How has provision for children with additional needs developed locally? The National Childminding Association set up and approved a Children Come First network this month. This allows children's centres to contact the local network manager who will find a childminder best suited to a child with additional needs.
How does Kids-r-Us adjust to children with additional needs? A lot of children with severe autism learn better through sensory experiences. In her home, Jinks has installed a sensory room (with bubble tubes, soft play and UV lighting), a sensory garden and a hot tub. The main adjustment was making time for one-to-one care. Jinks has a co-minder and voluntary help for additional support. However, she will not take on a child if she thinks it will affect the provision for the other children.
How have resources been funded? A lot have been self-funded by Jinks, with a small grant from North Doncaster Development Trust.
