When I had to return to work after having my second little boy, we decided not to use the local nursery and to instead try a childminder.

I cannot stress enough how nice it is for my son to have this experience, and for it to be with Marie (and Stuart). The difference between a nursery setting and Marie's couldn't be greater; the children all go outside for little 'field trips' everyday, come rain or shine. Marie send plenty of pictures and videos daily, which I always look forward to seeing (far more photos than we ever saw of his brother in a nursery setting).

We are so happy with Marie's childminding that we are now sending our precious little girl to her when she's nine months old in September.

If you're looking for a no nonsense, common sense, happy, loving, home from home style setting then you should definitely get on Marie's waiting list! Every child that attends her setting is always so polite and well behaved, she looks after them but is also bringing them up to start their lives as well brought up members of our community.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication