Four years ago, my then 8 month old son and I won the childminder lottery when we strolled into Joy's life and not a day has gone by when we don't feel so appreciative to have her! A year later, my other son joined her and they've been the happiest children in the world!

Joy is warm, welcoming, caring and is a master of her trade - she's raised 3 wonderful children of her own and treats every little one the same way she did hers, with open arms and massive heart. She doesn't just take care of children, she nurtures them, teaches them and understands them and it's amazing to watch them grow to be well-rounded and confident, ready to start school and move ahead.

Joy is definitely a firm believer of the great outdoors and learning through play. Not a day has gone by where my boys and the 2 little girls Joy looks after along with them, haven't been out in our beautiful surrounding parks for walks, picnics and play at some point during the day. She also takes them to the library, to play groups to mingle with other children, local day trips on the train (like Windsor to watch the changing of the guard and feed the ducks), animal farms, arts and crafts, and cooks and bakes with them at her house - there's never a dull moment, rest assured!

I can't begin to thank her enough for helping us raise our 2 boys over the last 4 years and can't imagine the void it will leave in my family's life when the boys start school in September. They will miss running into her house and I'm going to miss the chats at her door as well as seeing photos and hearing about the adventures they went on that day.

If you're looking for a carer, teacher and mother all combined into one, Joy is it. Our little family will miss her dearly and I can only say that if you get a chance to snatch Joy and send your child/children to her, you won't regret it for a moment!

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication