Carmen became our childminder in January 2023, when we had just moved to the neighborhood. In unfamiliar circumstances she helped us feel comfortable and settled. Our eldest was in nursery, which ended at 3pm and so needed to be picked up and our youngest was 10 months old and needed full time care.

Far from being just an after school childminder, Carmen became that full time care - and she was certainly the right choice. She forged an incredibly strong bond with the young one, helping teach him early years skills like walking, good sleeping patterns, eating solid food, and how to play properly with his bigger brother, and other kids of different ages who would be in her house after school. Likewise, our eldest was always happy to be at her house, eating, playing and learning with his brother.

As our needs have evolved she has been understanding and flexible, and has always been there for us. Our young one now attends one day a week, but still thinks of it as the highlight of his week. And when we need help over half term holidays or in emergencies, she often steps up to host the boys, giving them care, play and learning exercises to entertain them and keep their minds ticking over.

In many ways she has become an extension of our family. As a total professional, we can recommend her in the highest possible terms, without hesitation.

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• Communication