Carla's Childcare Service

19/08/2026

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside

13/08/2026

OPEN-ENDED TOYS..... WHAT ARE THEY?

An open-ended toy is one that can be used in multiple ways, without a fixed outcome or single correct result. There are no instructions that limit the play, no prescribed storyline and no final version that must be achieved. So instead of telling a child what to do, the toy invites them to decide.

Shelves are lined up with plastic that lights up, makes a sound and cost a fortune in batteries. But how about that cardboard box that was delivered, instead of dumping it at the local recycling centre, what if it becomes a car 🚗 a horse 🐴 or a house 🏠

A simple set of wooden blocks could become a tower, a car park, a zoo enclosure or a spaceship. The same magnetic tiles might form a castle one day and a marble run the next. The toy remains the same, but the play evolves according to the child’s imagination, stage of development and interests. It also doesn't need to cost a fortune.

13/08/2026

Crawling for the first time, it's all fun and games isn't it. You now have a mobile baby, its an exciting milestone, but now they are into everything, more interested in the pet toys than their own, sound familiar? But have you thought about their delicate skin constantly rubbing on the abrasive carpets causing your little one to get sore friction burns? In this heat your baby is probably in nothing more than a nappy, right?
There are things you can do to eleviate the rubbing.
1) Thin cotton trousers to protect legs
2) Barrier cream or zinc oxide for sore areas
3) Foam interconnecting mats in the babies play area

12/08/2026

This morning I took my NC on the miniature railway for the first time and safe to say it was a success 🙌 He loved it, not as much as he loves the swings but there was smiles and giggling as we spotted the animal statues and waved at people stood on the sidelines. A lovely morning finished off with a cranberry shake for me and milkshake for my own daughter

07/08/2026

Let me introduce myself properly for those who are following me but don't know me.
I am a 45 year old, married with 2 daughters, 1 dog and 2 cats. I have been in childcare since 2016, running my own childminding business until 2025.
Prior to that I ran another business called Hamiltons Holistics, providing holistic treatments in people's homes to bring harmony and balance to the mind, body & soul.
In 2024 I worked in a nursery working my way up to 3rd in charge and then acting deputy manager. I left in Dec 2025 and started my nanny work in March 2026 with some temping and emergency nanny cover jobs in-between.
I love what I do and feel very privileged to be on the journey with the family, watching and supporting the development of their precious bundle.
When I am not working I like spending time with my family and friends, cruising, going to festivals, listening to live music and putting my dancing shoes on. In colder months, you'll find me on the sofa with a cuppa a packet of biscuits and a good film. So that's me in a nutshell. Say 👋 if you want to 💛

07/08/2026

Remember every baby is different but whatever your routine is, be consistent to provide security and wellbeing.

05/08/2026

28/07/2026

🩸 Is Your Baby Eating Iron-Rich Foods? Pair Them with Vitamin C to Help the Body Absorb More Iron! 🍊

A simple food pairing can make a big difference. Combining iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables helps support healthy growth, brain development, and iron absorption.

28/07/2026

Today we visited a local working farm with plenty of animals to see from baby guinea pigs to llamas. A lovely morning out with my own daughter too.

27/07/2026

Wondered what high protein foods to give your baby if you don't want to provide meat. A balanced diet is essential for a babies development so also refer to professional guidelines but here is a quick reference