My name is Jen, and I was born in South Africa. I was an enthusiastic gymnast in my teens, and at 19, i left
South Africa to be a camp councillor in the states. I specialized in gymnastics at the camp. This was my first
experience leading activities for children and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. In 1999, I
moved to the UK. I began to work with underprivileged children known to Social Services. Working with
Children in Need was tough and heartbreaking, but I gained a lot from it. I learned to be more compassionate,
understanding, and patient. I also gained a greater appreciation for the power of education and the importance of
giving children a safe and healthy environment.
I became a childminder at the birth of my daughter in 2009. Childminding ignited my passion for the early
years. While being a childminder, I completed my Level 3 Childcare Qualification, and I am currently
completing an NPQEYL Leadership in the Early Years Course. I also gained a Yoga for Children Teacher
Qualification.
Before the pandemic, I spent a year in Italy, working in bilingual schools, teaching Primary School English, and
English focused curricular subjects. I was able to bring my skills from the UK to Italy, playing a lead role in
structuring an English-based curriculum and infusing the knowledge i have gained from the Early Years
Foundation stage, as well as TEFL to support the children to learn English phonics. Italy is the home of the
Maria Montessori Method and the ReggioEmilia Approach- two approaches that really resonate with me. I
incorporated elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia into my childminding curriculum. These elements
included allowing for more open-ended exploration, providing opportunities for critical thinking and problemsolving, and encouraging children to develop their own autonomy and independence.
Your Name: Jenny Pickston
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Similarly, Bryony Ducketts Yogabeez Training was inspirational in teaching children to be balanced through
movement and imagination. In addition, it taught them to be compassionate and kind to those around them.
In 2019, I returned to the UK and reopened my childminding business. The pandemic disrupted all our lives and
I was so grateful to be in a position to maintain a semi-normal environment for the children who could attend. I
was able to provide a safe, familiar, and secure space for the children, where they could play and interact with
others. I was also able to provide them with activities that were tailored to their individual needs and interests,
which gave them a sense of stability during the uncertain times.
My daughter is now 14, and the children I care for are like our family. I love seeing the uniqueness that each
child brings to the group. I also love seeing them become happy and confident members of Hanwell's wonderful
community.

Welcome to my childminding setting, where building relationships, jumping in puddles, dancing and being silly
are our top priority. I understand the importance of creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe,
loved, and supported. A warm, welcoming and inclusive atmosphere is essential for their overall well-being and
development.
As a childminder, I am privileged to have the opportunity to care for young children and their school-going
siblings in the same setting. I recognise the value of fostering a strong bond between siblings. By caring for both
young children and their school-going siblings in the same setting, we provide a unique opportunity for them to
spend quality time together. We encourage shared activities and playtime, allowing them to grow and learn from
one another.
I work closely with parents to maintain a sense of routine and structure, ensuring your child's daily routine is
followed, including mealtimes, nap times, and any specific requirements or preferences. I believe that
consistency and predictability are key in creating a sense of security for young children.
I offer a range of outings to enhance children's learning experiences. These activities may include trips to local
parks, nature walks, zoos, museums and playgroups. We are blessed with an amazing nature reserve with a
variety of birds, wild horses, squirrels and rabbits. I also have an adorable dog, who the children love to take
with us on walks.
We celebrate various cultural events and festivals to promote diversity and cultural awareness and individual
growth.
In addition to my child care experience, I am also a qualified yoga teacher and strive to create a sense of balance
and energy with the children. The children love to participate in bite sized children yoga sessions.
Ultimately, my aim is to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere that truly feels like a home away from
home for your children. Through our dedicated care, engaging activities, and commitment to building strong
relationships, we strive to create a nurturing environment where every child feels loved, supported, and valued.
We are honoured to be a part of their journey and look forward to welcoming your family into ours.