Erin looked after my son Rory (aged 1-2), firstly part-time and then full time from May 2013 – January 2014. She also picked up my older son Henry (aged 4-5) from school and looked after him every afternoon/evening from September 2013 – December 2013. I found the quality of care to be outstanding. Erin always had the best interests of my sons at heart. She worked hard to ensure that a variety of activities were delivered, and planned many trips out which Rory really enjoyed. She also took him to toddler groups and planned a variety of craft and garden activities which enabled his speech and social development.
Erin’s communication was of a very high quality. She provided regular, daily, detailed feedback on the daily activities that Rory participated in, as well as information on his eating and toilet habits. Erin also texted me regularly during the day when there were any issues, or simply to let me know how Rory was getting on.
Both boys loved Erin’s after school activities, such as arts and crafts, dancing and playing with a variety of different toys. They also enjoyed spending time with Erin’s pets and talked constantly about Lola and Grayson!
Erin fed Rory all three meals and also gave Henry dinner. I was always impressed with the variety of food which both boys really enjoyed. Erin was also extremely flexible when Rory had some specific dietary requirements and I always felt secure that they were being fed nutritious meals at appropriate times (unlikely some of the nurseries I investigated). In addition I was impressed with Erin’s efforts to provide them with diverse mealtime experiences with her introducing foods from around the world. (After consultation with me about what they would and would not eat.)
Overall both boys were extremely fond of Erin. If we had not moved we would certainly have continued using her to care for both boys for as long as they needed care. They certainly miss her and talk about her often. The final sign of her genuine care of them was when she helped us to find another childminder in Maidenhead through her own contacts.