Our son, Jamie (4 yrs old) has been part of the Little Owls Group since October 2015. Over the last four years, Jamie has been cared for by Nat and Amanda for up to four days per week.

Jamie has experienced so much by being part of the group. Nat and Amanda have striven to provide countless opportunities for growth and development through Jamie’s early years. The activities and trips are always tailored to meet the children’s needs and development objectives whatever their age. For example, the first topic Jamie took part in, as a baby was ‘Autumn’. I remember him exploring leaves in a bottle, whilst the older children played and explored with their hands. Just a simple thing, but a well thought out, safe way of including a baby and allowing him the opportunity to start exploring sounds and objects.

Just some of the outings that Jamie has taken part in are:

• Forest School at Milton Country Park
• Weekly play at Home Meadow (Old people’s home)
• Guided Bus trip around Cambridge
• Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
• Anglesey Abbey
• Punting in Cambridge
• Wimpole Farm
• Little Bunnies toddler group

Jamie’s social skills have developed wonderfully as he has been given the opportunities, through Little Owls, to mix with children of his own age and adults in various settings. Some people might be worried that their children wouldn’t be as well prepared for Primary School, when placed in a childminder’s setting for the duration of their early years. This was never a concern for us – we always felt that Nat and Amanda struck the perfect balance of having a small, personal setting but providing excellent activities and outings, through outstanding planning and preparation. This is definitely something that sets Nat and Amanda apart from other childminders, in our opinion.

Jamie has always been excited to tell us about all the things he has done during the day. It is clear that he received a lot of encouragement and praise. He really enjoyed being part of the group. He felt very safe, loved and well cared for by Nat and Amanda.

Overall, we can say without a doubt that Nat is an outstanding childminder and we feel so lucky that Jamie has been in her care throughout his early years. Nat has aided his transition to primary school so much and we are so grateful for everything she has done for Jamie, and us, over the years.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication