SCMA Annual Conference 2017: Childminding develops a child’s mind

One TV celebrity, the Minister for Childcare and Early Years, and one very special announcement are all set to ensure that the forthcoming Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) Annual Conference, developed purely for childminders, remains an unmissable event within the childcare sector.

The theme for 2017 is Childminding develops a child’s mind and final preparations are now well underway for this key event which promises to be packed full of innovative and inspiring ideas.

Commenting on the conference, Maggie Simpson, Chief Executive of SCMA said: “We have a really fabulous conference programme planned for delegates this year and I am thrilled to announce that Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and star of Channel 4’s hit series The Secret Life of 4, 5 and 6 Year Olds, will deliver the first presentation on the Use of Observation in Relation to Child Development. I’ve been fortunate to have sneak peek at the presentation and I know our delegates will enjoy it immensely.”

Following Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, delegates will be the first to hear an exciting announcement on a joint new venture between SCMA and SQA - the SCMA Complete Learning Pathway for Childminders.

“We have been working alongside SQA to develop the Complete Learning Pathway for Childminders that will enable all childminders to gain an SQA accredited work place award,” said Anne Condie, Head of Childminding Services at SCMA. “SQA has chosen the conference to present on this new development for childminders which I know will be welcomed within our sector.”

In the afternoon a full line up is planned which starts with Mark McDonald MSP, Minister for Childcare and Early Years delivering the Keynote Address, followed by Henry Mathias of the Care Inspectorate talking through what the new Health and Social Care Standards mean for our members and their work.

During the day a range of inspiring workshops will be delivered based around multisensory activities, with practical ideas on how to use materials and imaginations to keep their children engaged. In addition to exploring childminding issues from highly informed and respected perspectives, there will also be plenty of opportunities for delegates to network with professionals in a relaxed environment – perfect for allowing attendees to share ideas and make new connections. This year all the workshops will come with Certificates of Attendance and the conference itself will be Open Badged.

To find out more about the #scmaconf17 CLICK HERE.