Amanda Calloway

Meet Amanda, a childminder in North Wales who has thoughtfully developed her practice around child-led learning and natural play. Through careful reflection and ongoing professional development, she has adapted her home into a considered learning environment where children can explore freely through open-ended play.

Amanda has implemented several innovative practices by:

• creating an environment filled with natural, sustainable, and recycled resources
• adopting a 'planning in the moment' approach that capitalises on teachable moments
• maintaining small cohorts to ensure deep engagement with each child
• using loose parts both indoors and outdoors for creative exploration
• reducing traditional toys in favour of open-ended materials
• building robust community networks to source sustainable resources
• incorporating dynamic risk assessments for different age groups

The setting operates with a child-led approach, where children have autonomy over their play and learning. Resources are carefully selected to promote problem-solving, creativity, and sustained engagement, with many items sourced through community donations and sustainable means.

• enhanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• increased concentration and engagement in play
• improved confidence in self-directed learning
• deeper understanding of cause and effect through experimentation
• progressive development from experimental to purposeful play

"Changing the way in which I work has not only been of benefit to the children but also myself and my own family. The calm and neutral environment which is our family home is conducive to a happy nurturing place where children can learn through play."