Val has looked after our little boy since he was 9 months old, when I returned to work in March 2020. Unfortunately due to us relocating to another part of the country, we are now having to part ways, but I would highly recommend Val and her services to any other families looking for a childminder. She has a great approach with the kids - our son is always excited at drop off (no tears, ever!!) and is straight through the door with barely a second glance!! She is super caring but also firm, and has been incredible in managing everything from Covid (which happened 1 week into me returning to work!) to changes in routines, illnesses, etc.

Val uses the BabyDays app to record what happens through the day, so for peace of mind I know if he's eaten, napped, etc. She also regularly sends pictures and updates through the day which I love. Every day is different, and no matter the weather she always gets the kids out for walks and play. She has a great setting, both indoors (big play room, etc.) and outdoors - a big garden with slides, sand pit, water play, a mud garden, etc. As well as this, she has guinea pigs and a gorgeous little puppy that the children are obsessed with (and only introduced to as & when everyone is comfortable).

Val makes a huge effort for events and occasions, such as Christmas, Birthdays, Halloween, Mothers/Fathers Days, etc. and also makes occasional cards and gifts for extended family such as the grandparents, which always puts us in the good books!

She provides fresh, nutritious food every day, and bakes regularly with the kids. They have music and dance sessions which are adorable, as well as messy play, reading, and all the usual activities that you could think of. Through the first lockdown when Val was forced to close in line with Government guidelines, she sent an activity pack for us, including books, flash cards, sensory activities, colouring packs, etc. She has had to adapt massively this year, finding new activities to do due to parks/farms/zoos etc being shut, but she always seems to keep them busy and entertained no matter what!

This was our first occasion of using a childminder, and I was a little worried at first about whether our son would be happy, or clingy (especially after the early Covid shutdown when he was home with just us for a long period of time), but honestly it's been the best decision for him to ease him into a childcare setting gently, and given us the comfort and peace of mind knowing he is settled, happy and safe. Thank you Val, you've been absolutely wonderful and we will all miss you so much!