Claire's Childcare - Hygge in the Early Years Accredited Setting

29/04/2026

We are out and about every single day.

Parks. Fields. Lakes. Woods. Long walks. Big skies. Fresh air.

It’s one of the things I value most about being a childminder. The children get real space to move, explore and experience the seasons properly.

But when your classroom doesn’t have four walls, safeguarding travels with you.

That’s why I’ve started using LittleLink ID

It means that wherever we are even if we’re a long way from home I have emergency contact information securely with me at all times. It’s simple, discreet and gives real peace of mind when we’re out on our daily adventures.

Most people see the photos of the places we go.

They don’t always see the planning and responsibility behind the scenes that makes those adventures possible.

This is one of the small things that helps keep children safe while still giving them the freedom to explore the world around them.

10/04/2026

Three years ago today I opened the cabin for the very first time.

It’s hard to believe how quickly that moment has become part of our everyday rhythm. This little space has seen first friendships, first steps, first words, muddy wellies, stories on the sofa, small world adventures and lots of quiet cosy moments in between.

A dedicated play space makes such a difference for young children. It gives them room to explore independently, build confidence, follow their ideas and feel safe in a space that is designed just for them. We use the cabin every day for play, stories, invitations to explore and calm time when little bodies need a pause.

This photo is actually from 2023 when the cabin first opened. It’s evolved a little since then. The sofa has gone and the cosy umbrella corner is more open now to give the children even more space to move and play.

I still love it just as much as the day it opened.

I currently have one early years space becoming available. If you’re looking for a calm, home-from-home environment with a dedicated play space for your little one, feel free to get in touch.

25/03/2026

A perfect windy morning for a walk forwards and backwards.

Walking backwards might look like a small thing.

For one- and two-year-olds, it’s actually big learning.

At this age children are still building their balance and confidence on their feet. Moving backwards helps strengthen their core muscles, improves coordination and teaches their bodies where they are in space without needing to look down.

It supports safer climbing.
Stronger walking.
Better body awareness.
And confidence to explore independently.

This is how learning looks for under-threes.

Not worksheets.
Not sitting still.
But moving, exploring and practising new skills in real environments.

These small everyday moments are part of why I love working with this age group so much.

I have a under-three space available from September in a calm home-from-home setting where children learn through movement, outdoor time and gentle routines that support their development in ways that really matter.

24/03/2026

On gloomy cloudy days I’m especially grateful for our snuggly nap spaces.

Everyone has their own little bed, their own blanket, and time to properly rest.

Good naps make such a difference. Children wake up settled, ready to play, explore and enjoy the afternoon instead of trying to push through tiredness.

Rest is a really important part of our day here. It’s not rushed, and it’s not optional if little bodies need it.

Spaces coming up soon for children under 3 if you’re looking for a calm, home-from-home setting with a gentle daily rhythm.

Feel free to message me if you’d like to find out more.

14/03/2026

One of the biggest responsibilities we carry as childminders is being the person who acts when something goes wrong.

These arrived this week and it’s always a reminder of just how important first aid training really is.
When parents leave their children with us they trust that we will know what to do in an emergency, whether that’s choking, an injury in the garden, or recognising the signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Alongside my paediatric first aid, I’ve also completed training in anaphylaxis awareness, learning how to identify the symptoms and safely use an auto-injector if a child experiences a severe allergic reaction.

It’s the kind of knowledge you hope you never have to use, but when you do, those few seconds of calm thinking and training can make all the difference.

A big thank you to Ruth Watson at Watson Training Services for delivering such clear and practical training as always.

Always learning. Always updating. Always keeping children safe.

14/01/2026

Reading is a HUGE part of my setting.
But sadly I know not everyone has the confidence to tell stories every day.

This year the Government has launched a new initiative to get more homes reading. The National Year of Reading will help you make stories part of everyday life in your setting. You’ll find simple ideas, playful activities and ready-to-use tools to help you spark children’s curiosity.

There are a wealth of resources for settings, families and schools
The link for more information is in the comments

13/01/2026

How often do you bake?

We are getting back onto our routine of Tasty Bake Tuesday.
This week its Bird Bread.
A simple and easy recipe, great for fine motor skills.

Have you ever made it?

03/01/2026

“I am 2.”

Two is big feelings. Big curiosity. A brain growing faster than words can keep up.

Those tears? Not bad behaviour. Not naughtiness.
Just a little person trying to make sense of a very big world.

At this age, children are learning:
✨ independence
✨ cause and effect
✨ how to express feelings without the language yet

It can look messy. It can sound loud. But it’s all part of healthy development.

In my setting, two-year-olds are given:
• time
• patience
• reassurance
• clear boundaries
• lots of language and comfort

Because being two isn’t easy.
And they’re not giving us a hard time they’re having a hard time. 💛

(And yes… they’re pretty amazing too.)

03/01/2026

02/12/2025

It's that time of year..
A great poster shared.

03/11/2025

Who LOVES sparklers? ✨
Me! I absolutely love them, and under the right conditions (and with plenty of supervision) they can be enjoyed safely with our little ones.
We all know the sparkle of Bonfire Night is magical , but tiny hands and sparklers aren’t always the best mix!

Here’s a simple tweak that makes it safer and still fun:
➡️ Use a carrot, parsnip, potato, or sweet potato as a chunky “sparkler handle.”
They’re sturdy, easy to grip (even with gloves on), and make a great safety barrier for little hands.
Then just enjoy watching the lights, colours, and sounds from a safe distance or make your own “sparklers” with ribbons, pipe cleaners, or sticks for an indoor version.
Because staying safe means staying calm and that’s a win for little nervous systems (and ours too!). 💛

25/10/2025

Here's to fighting the germs quickly, celebrating birthdays and relaxing with blankets, onesies and biscuits!