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Childminders understand that the Progress Check at Age Two is a vital tool in helping children get the right support at the right time. As part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements, all early years settings, including childminders, must complete this essential check for every child between their second and third birthday—most often between 24 and 29 months.

This check isn’t just a tick-box exercise. It’s a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and really focus on a child’s developmental progress. But timing matters. If a child is new to your setting, shows emerging concerns, or has an identified special educational need or disability, it may be beneficial to delay the check slightly to gain a fuller picture of their development.

Working Together for the Best Outcomes

The Progress Check is designed to be collaborative. Sharing the report with parents gives them a chance to contribute their thoughts to the report, recognising that children may demonstrate different skills and behaviours at home than they do in their childminding setting. This enables a rounded view on the child’s needs and relevant next steps. The report should also be shared with the child’s health visitor as part of their Healthy Child Review, typically carried out around 2½ years old. This joined-up approach ensures that any concerns are addressed early, giving children the best possible start.

Making the Process Simple with Childminding UK Resources

There’s no set format for the Progress Check, but we’ve made it easy for you. As a Childminding UK member, you’ll find our tailored Progress Check form in the resources section of your member dashboard. Non-members can also access it in our shop.

Our form is designed to help you focus on the three prime areas of learning and development, making it simple to highlight a child’s strengths and identify any areas where extra support might help. It encourages meaningful conversations with parents, ensuring that next steps are clear—both for home and your setting.

Already Using Our Child Progress Report?

Good news! If you’re already using the Childminding UK Child Progress Report, you won’t need to start from scratch. It contains all the information required for the Progress Check at Age Two and can be submitted as it is and you can find it FREE in your member dashboard. If you’re not a member yet, it’s available as part of our Child Development Forms Pack. This pack is excellent value for money! It includes:

• The Progress Check at Age Two
• The Child Progress Report
• Child Observation and Evaluation Form
• Transition Document

Want access to more helpful tools and resources? Find out more about becoming a Childminding UK member