Free Resources

The Complete 2026 Childminder Policy & Procedure Hub

Free, EYFS 2026 compliant procedure templates updated for the latest statutory requirements. Download instantly.

Written byDaniel Broadhurst (Founder)|Published: 22 June 2026|
Ofsted Aligned
Audited against EYFS Sept 2025 (July 2026)

Expert Guidance for 2026 Compliance

While childminders registered solely on the Early Years Register are not strictly required to have written policies, you must be able to clearly explain your procedures to Ofsted and ensure any assistants follow them to the letter.

💡 The "No-Written-Policy" Flex:

Our templates don't just give you a document; they give you the perfect script to confidently articulate your expert knowledge during the 2026 Ofsted Planning Call and inspection.

⚠️ Critical 2026 Regulatory Updates

The Ofsted Report Card

Single headline grades are gone. Your setting will now receive a nuanced evaluation across areas like Inclusion and Leadership. Our templates are mapped to these specific 'Report Card' domains, focusing on the Graduated Approach (Assess, Plan, Do, Review) for children with SEND.

30-Minute Planning Call

A new mandatory video call replaces the traditional start of the visit. You must be ready to discuss your setting's context and Inclusion strategy, including how you use targeted funding like EYPP to reduce barriers to learning.

Funding Transparency & Alternative Arrangements

While you can charge for consumables (meals, trips, nappies), you must not charge a top-up fee for the free entitlement. Critically, if a parent chooses not to pay for these extras, you must agree to an alternative arrangement (e.g., allowing them to bring their own meals) to ensure they still have access to their free childcare.

The Statutory Core Procedures

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Inclusion & SEND Procedure

2026 standalone focus area: Graduated Approach (Assess, Plan, Do, Review), reasonable adjustments, and supporting socioeconomically disadvantaged children.

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Safeguarding & Child Protection Procedure

EYFS 2026 compliant procedure including explicit device and camera policies, digital body maps, and DSL internet safety training mandates.

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Complaints Procedure & Whistleblowing

Comprehensive complaints handling with clear escalation protocols and new 2026 whistleblowing protections for assistants.

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Emergency Evacuation & Safety

Fire safety, assembly points, and safer recruitment check protocols ensuring all adults on site are verified.

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Missing & Uncollected Child Procedure

Step-by-step response protocol, including specific notification triggers for local children's social care.

Daily Operational Templates

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Monthly Invoice Template

Professional Word-compatible template for private hours, consumables, and Tax-Free Childcare references.

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The Daily Diary (A5)

Simple communication sheet for Under 5s, covering naps, meals, and EYFS developmental moments.

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Accident & Incident Record

Mandatory compliance record with integrated body maps and parent signature tracking.

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Health & Medication Procedure

Parental consent protocols, allergy management, and safe storage requirements for all health needs.

EYFS "All About Me" Template

Starting point assessment tool to capture routines, likes, and developmental baselines for new children.

Beyond the Paperwork

A professional childminder doesn't just "have" a policy; they live their procedures. Use these templates to build a culture of safety and excellence in your setting.

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Safeguarding First

Align with KCSIE 2025 and your local LSP procedures.

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Parental Partnership

Clear procedures build trust and transparency from day one.

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Always Current

Updated quarterly to reflect the latest DfE and Ofsted guidance.

License: Free for registered childminders for use in their own settings. Redistribution or resale is prohibited.

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