Natasha Smokcum

I have been delivering childcare for 8 years and love my job. I have worked as a nanny and childminder and have also run forest school early years sessions. The early years are such an important time for children to begin their lifelong journey and love of learning. I believe that every child deserves the best start in life and hope to provide childcare that supports them in fulfilling their potential.

I work from my home near Chorlton Park where I live with a friend, her daughter and my two sons age 9 and 5. We have a garden and make good use of our close proximity to Chorlton Water Park. I have been learning to play the piano for over a year and incorporate music into our daily singing. I also enjoy yoga and storytelling and try to blend the two for a movement based adventure.

I aim to offer a warm, caring and safe environment from which children can explore and learn through play. I like to keep a rhythm to the day so the children learn what to expect, I find this can really help young children and those who struggle with transitions. I have a number of resources which are available to the children at all times and we spend a lot of time out doors at various parks and woodlands. I love the sense of freedom children gain from being outdoors and the way it seems to spark their creative and critical thinking. We visit local groups, the library, museums and soft play centres enabling the children to socialise with other groups of children and explore other spaces.

I work closely with parents and by sharing information believe I can support your child in the best way, enabling me to help them in feeling settled, safe and happy.

I receive ongoing training and am currently completing the Forest School leader level 3 training. I have received training in Child Protection, Child Development, the EYFS, Oral health, Speech Therapy and Paediatric First Aid. I also have a degree in Crimonolgy and Social Policy.

I provide food to the children and offer healthy meals and snacks, the majority of which are organic. I also encourage the children to help with the preparation of food.

I view the early years as such a magical time, when children can develop so quickly. It has been such a pleasure for me to be a part of the beginning of a number of children’s journeys, where the foundations are laid for their future abilities and talents to flourish.

Please feel free to ask me any questions, as many as you want. I understand how hard it can be in choosing the childcare that is just right for your child and your family.