My two sons, now 2 and 3 1/2 years old, have been in Michelle’s care since she started her childminding business 18 months ago. My husband and I have nothing but the highest praise for her and the care she has provided for our sons over this time.

When I was returning to work I had an open mind as to whether I would have the boys in nursery or with a childminder, so I viewed and met with a few of each to help me make a decision. Everyone says that once you find the right place for your child/children, you just know. I wholeheartedly agree with this, because as soon as we arrived at Michelle’s lovely home and she greeted us at the door, I just knew this was the right setting for them. The first impression I had has stayed with me throughout the time the boys have been in Michelle’s care.

Both boys have thrived with Michelle. She encourages them in every aspect, whilst respecting and being mindful of their individual personalities. She is warm and consistent in her approach and she plans such a variety of activities and outings for the children, keeping them busy and encouraging their imaginations. In Michelle’s home they’ve done lots of baking, painting, play dough, tuff tray activities, water play, reading, music/dance/singing, gymnastics and enjoyed the high quality and variety of toys she has available. She takes them on fabulous outings including woodland walks, toddler groups, the zoo, museums and many more. Meals and snacks that has provided have been healthy with a good variety of foods.

She has shown great flexibility in terms of adjusting to a few changes in our attendance patterns. Michelle also agreed to pick my older son up from nursery on the days he is with her, which I greatly appreciate as it has given him the opportunity to attend a lovely school nursery, which he wouldn’t have had with me at work. I can see how much work Michelle has put in to him, in terms of encouraging and extending the beginning of his understanding of numbers, letters and sounds.

Michelle’s home is spotlessly clean and has a very warm atmosphere, as well as being light and bright with very good outdoor space that the boys enjoy using.

Michelle’s daughter is a really lovely and caring little girl, and it has been heartwarming seeing the relationship the boys have developed with both her and Michelle.

I can’t speak more highly of Michelle - she is super professional, always pleasant to deal with and a very likeable person all round. Thank you Michelle for the wonderful care you have given our precious boys, it means the world to us both.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication