Family Daycare's Reviews

Childminder

5 stars 5 out of 5
24 ratings

Parent reviews

Below are the latest reviews for Family Daycare. Please note that reviews represent the subjective opinions of other Childcare.co.uk members and not of Childcare.co.uk. Parents must carry out their own checks and references on childcare providers to ensure that they are completely happy before enaging in the use of their services.

Our son has been with Samiya from 2021-2025 and we've been so happy with her and her team that I asked her to care for my daughter before she was even born!

Rewind to 2021, I had a specific type of setting in mind when searching for childcare for my son and I didn't believe anything like it existed. I was (happily) proven wrong when we found Samiya; From the first time we met her and saw her set up, I really felt our prayers had been answered!

Samiya and her team of assistants are such caring, loving and generous people; I feel like I've left my son with our own family members and can tell they really do look after him as though he is their own. He has always come home happy, clean and his tummy full. He loves it there and tells me he misses Samiya and her brilliant assistants whenever we are away for a period.

I've been continually impressed at how organised they are, evidenced by the many outings they do with the children; to the local parks and playgrounds, nature zones, libraries, playgroups and even trips into Central London to places like the Transport Museum and China Town. There's usually a themed week and activities surrounding that. Plenty of indoor play too including crafts and messy play. We're kept updated and love to receive photos of what he's been up to. I describe Samiya's setting as a "micro-nursery" to my colleagues and friends because of all the resources and activities Samiya has managed to build up in her home.

Samiya has always been flexible and understanding which I'm so grateful for as it's something I really needed with the job I do. She's patient and kind- qualities I very much value and can see that has rubbed off on my child. You always want your child to be in good company, and with Samiya and her crew you don't just get good, you get the best.

Thank you Samiya for being part of our village!

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Aisha Aisha on 06/01/2025

Samiya, her husband Sami and her whole team provide the most amazing setting for early years development. Their ship runs smoothly and the feel of the house is like a big family. My son was in her care from 1-5 and he loved it there. Samiya also provided before and after school care for my older daughter and was always so warm, loving and organised. My kids were never hungry after Samiya’s so I knew they had eaten well and all her staff are so kind and patient too. I would highly recommend this setting it’s a large childminder set up and they go out everyday too. Samiya celebrates each occasion in the calendar giving the kids a colourful and educational start to pre school life.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Lucy R Lucy R on 02/09/2024

Samiya and her team beautifully looked after our youngest for just over 2 years until he joined his older siblings at the school nursery. I cannot speak more highly of her and in my opinion she provides the best childcare setting in the local area having experience 1-2 local private nurseries in the area. I only wish I had known about her so my older two could have benefitted from her care. The highlights for us were how kind she was, how flexible she was, the fab trips near and far she took the children on, the varied activities she did with the children, how polite my child was due to her influence, the close/fun bonds between the children she looks after and how happy and content my child was in her care. I remember clearly one time when I was poorly and had 3 children in my care and how she offered to take all my children in on the spot so I could recover. She has also offered to help in other tight spots I have had with childcare and this is invaluable when you don't have family locally. Thank you Samiya and team. x

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Sian Sian on 09/02/2024

Our son and daughter were with Samiya and her team from a young age and they absolutely loved being looked after by them. From the moment we met her, Samiya put us at ease with her kind, trustworthy, professional manner.

The children were always happy and excited to be spending the day with them and loved seeing all their friends there. Samiya and her team provided a very caring, supportive and fun home-from-home environment in which our children thrived. Their communication has always been excellent, with both children and parents. The children experienced a wide variety of activities during the day including plenty of time outside, educational trips and the food they provide was always very healthy and varied.


If we didn’t move away, we would definitely be continuing with Samiya and I highly recommend her for anyone looking for top quality, reliable, caring childminding.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Babs Babs on 30/12/2023

The eagle-eyed amongst you notice that this is my second review for Samiya - she previously looked after my Son until he started school, and my younger daughter has also now just left in order to start school in September having been looked after by Samiya since the age of 11 months, 4 days/week.
Placing our children with Samiya (and her wonderful family & assistants) was quite simply one of the best decisions we have ever made as a family. My children both thrived during their time with her, and whilst they miss her setting immensely they have been well equipped with all the social skills, confidence and abilities they need to embrace starting school. In short I can't recommend her highly enough and she will always be considered family, thank you Samiya!!

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Alexa Alexa on 18/10/2023

I can’t recommend Samiya enough! My daughter has absolutely loved going to daycare and has been doing so since she was 8 months old. We are so incredibly sad to say goodbye (my daughter is now heading off to school) because Samiya and co really are a part of the family.

My daughter has truly thrived with Samiya, she is very happy, and has developed into a confident little girl ready for the challenges of school – all thanks to Samiya and co. The support from Samiya and co was simply the best and I concur with what all the other reviewers have posted. I really could be here for a long time writing this review, so, the short version: the best decision I ever made was sending my daughter here. I knew from the very first visit that this was the right fit for us.

Thank you again, Samiya!! You all will be truly missed.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for DuPreez DuPreez on 15/09/2022

My son was looked after by Samiya and her staff since he was about 10 months old till four and a half. Words are not enough to describe how grateful I am to Samiya and her wonderful family.

My son was always taken care of like one of “their own” always well taken care of always had fun!! From trips to the local library to museum trips. I never had a doubt that my son was in good hands. Even when I was hit with ill health they were absolutely amazing to me and my family going beyond and above for us. I will be eternally grateful to Samiya and the whole team for their exceptional work, love and support. My son had a wonderful experience and upbringing with Samiya which is now also being reflected in his reception year. He’s even got awarded star of the week and I’m sure Samiya has a big part in this with her amazing teaching abilities!

So if your looking for a loving, fun, safe and educational place for your little one look no further. This is the best place, if I had to do it again I wouldn’t think twice!!

We miss you terribly but your never too far from our minds!

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Denisema Denisema on 02/10/2021

Samiya and her wonderful assistants have cared for my Son from the age of 11 months until 4yrs, and she continues to care for my daughter who is now 2.
I can not recommend her highly enough. She provides an incredibly warm, loving, engaging, creative and fun environment and both of my children have absolutely thrived there. Since day 1 they have both run through her door in the morning and not looked back, and it has brought great peace of mind to know that they are so happy and well cared for. She is particularly passionate about reading and story-telling, and the kids love to come home and re-enact the daily 'carpet time' - songs, stories and all!
Pre-Covid there were regular visits to the library, the Horniman museum and Children's centres to name but a few. Since lockdown has lifted they again go regularly to local playgrounds, and in addition they have a fantastic garden space. Samiya has also been as flexible as possible with my shift work, which has made life so much easier.
Overall, parenting has felt like an amazingly collaborative experience with Samiya. She is a part of the family, my kids love her & her assistants, and I would not be without her!

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Alexa Alexa on 12/09/2021

Our daughter has been with Samiya since June 2019, looking after her 4 days a week. It is with great sadness, due to moving out of London that we are having to end our time with her.

We have been extremely happy with the level of care that she has received, and the incredible progress she has made. Each day is filled with a wide variety of activities and no two days are ever the same. When we pick her up she is happy and excited to tell us about her day.

Before the pandemic there were trips to local parks, libraries, children centres and museums all of which were of huge benefit to the children. Despite these trips not being able to currently happen Samiya and her team have done an excellent job of making each day still feel interesting and exciting and the development we have seen in Everly over the past year has been incredible. Samiya creates such a nurturing learning environment for the children in her care Everly has made some really special friendships.

Samiya’s home is welcoming, warm, positive, friendly and it really does feel like she has become an extended member of our family. I would absolutely recommend Samiya as an utterly wonderful child minder, I really don’t know what we are going to do without her!

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Linseya Linseya on 16/02/2021

Samiya is the best childminder you could wish for. She is very caring, approachable and accommodating. She provides stimulating and fun learning environment for kids to learn, play and explore. Our son absolutely loved spacious playrooms ( not 1 , but 2 !) and a large garden with lots of fun toys to play with. He also enjoyed his trips to the local library, rhyme time, local parks, Sammy sounds phonic sessions and many many more :). Every child has a food diary with the details of delicious home made meals and a learning journey with lots of observations and photos, monitoring their progress and achievements. Every family has their own separate Whatsapp group for photos and communication. Dominic was very happy at Samiya's house and we knew that he is in good hands . We couldn't wish for better start for him. Thank you for all you have have done for our little family. We couldn't be more grateful x

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Aga Aga on 02/06/2020

My daughter had been with Samiya for 3 and half years, and she has learned so much, Samiya and her team are wonderful and so caring, it felt like leaving her at home rather than a nursery.
I am very happy with Samiya and would recommend her anytime.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Naina Naina on 09/09/2019

Samiya has been an amazing childminder to our son, Daniel. She helped him settle far quicker than expected when he was 12 months old and he has been really happy there. I knew as soon as I went in that he would be well cared for and have a lovely time every day, so much so he often doesn't want to leave!

Samiya keeps me up to date through the day and the photos show what a good time he is having. They do lots of activities and go on outings to the park, library, soft play etc. Daniel has developed a great deal since being there and loves being around the other children. He is eating and sleeping much better since starting.

She is incredibly flexible and has given us extra childcare when we've needed extra help , making life so much easier for us. I'm really sad that we're moving away and won't be able to carry on with Samiya.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for CHloeLH CHloeLH on 15/11/2018

I spent months looking for the right childcare. I needed long hours, some flexibility and had almost given up on finding somewhere I felt comfortable with leaving our son. Then a neighbour recommended Samiya. I knew from the minute I stepped into her house that she would provide a loving, nurturing and stimulating environment.

It's been the perfect place for our son, who has been there from about 10 months to 3 1/3. He moves onto nursery this week, but his little sister will start when I go back to work.

Little Man has thrived, learned great sharing and social skills, and Samiya has been very supportive towards myself and my husband, offering advice when asked, and helping us work out parenting. I've also been impressed by the range of activities she takes the children to, from ChinaTown for Chinese NY to urban farms, museums and playgroups.

I would recommend anyone to send their child to her.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 01/01/2018

My son AJ was 16 months when he started spending his Fridays with Samiya. He settled in straight away as Samiya made her home a wonderful place to stay for all of her kids. I love that AJ has his own book which details his meals and what he's done through the day. I also got pictures sent to my phone showing how happy he was playing with the abundance of toys all over Samiya's house and whilst in play groups.
It is easy to see that Samiya treats all her kids as her own. AJ loved going to Samiya's and was always eager to see her. He learned a lot of things in the 18 months he's spent with her and her team. He was looked after very well, given nutritious food and taken to a lot of places such as play groups, parks and libraries.

I would not hesitate to recommend Samiya to any parent. She is amazing! She is always loving and caring towards her kids, treating them as their own.

I guarantee that you will not find a better carer for your child! I knew we wanted her to look after AJ within minutes of meeting her, seeing how she interacted with AJ and what she's done to make her home a happy and comfortable place for the kids.

I am deeply saddened that AJ cannot spend more time with Samiya due to us moving further away, I would've been happy for him to carry on seeing her until he's too old to be looked after.

I wish Samiya, her family and her team all the best. They've been a great blessing to us and hope that other families can also experience the joy they've brought to me and my son.

  • 5 stars Overall
  • 5 stars Setting
  • 5 stars Cleanliness
  • 5 stars Food
  • 5 stars Communication

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 07/07/2016

Samiya has lovingly cared for our son since he was aged 10 months to 3 years old. Samiya is affectionate, full of energy and is attentive to each child's needs. She has taught our son many life skills: language, numeracy and social skills like playing well, manners and good behaviour and eating a variety of healthy foods that even our fussy eater enjoys!

Her house and garden are perfect for children. They also regularly go on fun, stimulating outings. Our son has made great friends and all the children are sweet and well mannered. Samiya's family are helpful and kind, especially her husband Sami who transported our son to and from home. And the children all adore Samiya's wonderfully caring assistant Nina.

Putting our son in Samiya's capable hands was the best decision we've made. From first meeting Samiya we knew we could trust her with his care and safety. On that first day she talked to us from the floor where she was showing toys to our little boy and making him feel at home. We wish our baby daughter could benefit from the same happy experience our son has had but sadly we are leaving London. We highly recommend Samiya and her "team".

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 13/11/2015

Our 21 month old son has been with Samiya since he was 12 months old. We couldn't be happier with the care he receives. Together with Nina, Samiya provides a thoughtful, fun, interactive and loving daytime home for Elias and his friends. I am astounded at the amount of activities they get through in a day; our son is stimulated and has learned many new skills under their care. We couldn't recommend Samiya more highly.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 15/06/2015

We searched high and low to find the perfect childminder for our little sunshine. From the moment we met Samiya we knew it's a perfect match.
Since starting at JellyBabies at 6mths our son has continued to develop rapidly with Samiyas creative & interactive daily programming.
When he comes home he is always cheerful and tired after a fulfilling day with Samiya, Nina and the entire family.
He smiles whenever he sees Sami's van arrive for his pick up and bubbles a lot when Sami delivers him home.
Unfortunately we are moving abroad, otherwise we wouldn't let go of Samiya, Sami & Nina.
We will be very lucky if we can find another childcare service as great and personal as this one.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 24/09/2014

My daughter first started going to Samiya's when she was 9 months and after a carefully planned settle-in programme she quickly became one of the family.
Samiya's warm, motherly personality ensures that my daughter is comfortable and happy during the days and she always comes home cheerful. The loving family atmosphere at Samiya's has helped tremendously in her development and she's blossomed into a creative, outgoing toddler who absolutely adores her days spent at Samiya's.
Samiya never fails to put a smile on my face, as well, with daily feedback and updates on the little ones activities.
With help from her assistant, Nina, and the rest of the family, the atmosphere is the perfect 'home away from home'. Sami's pick-up and drop-off service has been incredibly convenient as well, especially during busy periods.
With a genuine adoration for children, Samiya has put the same love and care that she has taken into raising her own beautiful family, into helping me raise mine. Unfortunately we have relocated so my daughter is unable to continue going to Samiya. We will miss you and your family very much Samiya.
Thank you for doing such a great job.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Vivia Vivia on 24/03/2014

When my daughter turned one I needed to find a childminder to look after her just one day a week. Samiya was the only childminder I contacted who recognised that sometimes parents have childcare needs that do not fit in with the norm of two-five days. Her flexibility was much appreciated. Similarly, when my daughter proved a challenge to 'settle in', Samiya was both patient and unfazed which in turn made me a bit calmer about the whole process of leaving her. And as it turns out, Samiya was absolutely right to be confident that my daughter would settle in just fine given a bit of time - it only took a few weeks before she wasn't even turning back to say goodbye to my partner in the mornings.

Samiya creates a fun learning environment, full of noise, chatter and stimulation and as such my daughter is excited to return to see her every week. In addition Samiya appears to be terribly perceptive when it comes to each child's separate needs and quirks and doesn't treat the children she looks after as an homogenous mass.

Nina, Samiya's assistant, is an added bonus - she has a lovely gentle way with children and my daughter adores her too. We spend much of the week talking about Samiya and Nina with my daughter counting down the days until her next visit!

I can't recommend them both highly enough.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 16/07/2013

I first met samiya a year ago when i needed chilminding for my 11 months old little Lola.
Samiya loves children and it shows! Nothing is too much trouble from taking them to the farm, the library, museums etc... Lola loved going and was staying 4 days a week. In one year my little girl has learnt a lot thanks to samyia's teaching skills but she has aldo received a lot of love and made great little friends ... Even better, she found a second family.
We are both French and lola only gets to here French at home she now speaks a lot of English and has even taught some French to Samyia! She has become a very clever little girl.
Thank you very much also to Nina who helps samyia , your are fantastic too!
Thank you Samyia for taking care of my baby so well!
We are only leaving her because we are going back to france and i hope i can find someone as good as Samiya back in France too.
I am going to miss her!

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 29/04/2013

I first came across Samiya when my mother met her at a playgroup and was really impressed with how she interacted with the children. After that I started sending my youngest son (who was 10 months old at the time) for 4 days a week until he was able to start nursery at a year old. Samiya has been an excellent childminder, even from the beginning she was very conscious of ensuring that she got things right, and tried to ensure that settling in went as smoothly as possible. She is very loving and caring with the children and I feel they get the benefit of more one to one attention they would potentially in a nursery. I like the fact that they go on daily outings as well and she tries to keep it as varied as possible. We even ended up postponing his nursery placement as we were so happy with the care that she was providing. I would highly recommend Samiya to anyone who is looking for reliable and caring childcare.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 15/08/2012

It's never easy leaving your child, however with Samiya I have had total peace of mind and the joy of picking up a happy child at the end of a long working day. Samiya gives Zayna exactly what she needs - a loving, caring and stimulating environment in which she has thrived. As a Primary School teacher myself I have noted that of all my children Zayna's speech has developed at a faster rate and her use of vocabulary is of a very high calibre. She is able to communicate her feelings and thoughts effectively and has learnt certain etiquettes and behaviours that are a reflection of someone who has instilled clear boundaries. Zayna enjoys her daily outings immensely and I am pleased to say that she has an adventurous palette as she is exposed to all types of healthy yet nutritious meals and snacks. The decision to leave my child with Samiya has been the best choice and I would highly recommend her to anyone.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 08/06/2012

Our son started attending Samiya when he was 16 months. Prior to this he attended a day nursery for two months and was very unhappy there. I could see the difference with Samiya right away as she gave him the settling in on his terms. She knew exactly what he needed and within one week he was comfortable and happy there. Now he is 26 months and I can see a huge development in terms of his speech and his social skills. Samiya is fantastic, loving and caring with the children and always there for this extra cuddle. She is great with managing the children's behaviour setting clear boundaries and sticking to a routine. She gives professional childcare with this extra touch of warmth and homely feel. I can highly recommend her.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 08/06/2012

Samiya is sn excellent childminder. I use her services for 2 x 2 hr slots a week to go to the gym. My son was born in august 2011. She is brilliant. Not only she is loving, warm with such a lovely bubbly personality but she also takes time to stimulate Edward and is extremely observant of his development. She also looks after toddlers and is an expert in every age. Nothing is too much trouble for her and I would recommend her to anyone for short term cover or care whilst you return to work.

  • 5 stars Overall

by Avatar for Parent Parent on 11/01/2012

You must be a registered parent and logged in to leave a review.

If you don't have an account then Register for free now.