My little girl currently attends Rachel's Little Stars and is now 2 years 4 months old. She began her transition visits when she was 10 months old as I was due to start back to work as a teacher and knew she would have to build up to long days. From our initial contact through to today, I cannot sing anything other than praises for Rachel and her setting.

There were a LOT of boxes I wanted ticking (being an Primary teacher) and Rachel has surpassed all that I could have expected. I was THAT parent that trawled through her policies, folders and reviews and her attention to detail and understanding of safeguarding was outstanding. She was patient with my questions and understood that I was preparing to leave my most treasured possession with her. At no point did I feel I was being silly for all my prep or requests. She established a positive relationship with me quickly and I felt at ease in her company at once- this has continued to this day.

She got to know my daughter very quickly and clearly loves being around small people. Her understanding of the roller coaster of emotions I was going through at having to leave my daughter really helped me feel safe to say exactly what was on my mind. I needn't had worries though because my little one slept and ate straight away and I had quick updates to put my mind at ease on those first few days. Even on 'Velcro baby' mornings now I get an update before I get to work to say she has now settled and what she is now up to. It's all these thoughtful little details that make us so grateful Rachel had a space for us!

Her communication is outstanding. We get daily updates with photos that literally make my day. We regularly look at them as a family and it is clear what amazing experiences are on offer. Now my daughter talks more, she often says how she loves Rachel's house and talks through the pictures in her own cute way.

Each week Rachel sets up a range of activities that help develop the children across all learning areas. I always want to come play when I see what's on offer! Outdoor learning happens regularly and she has really helped develop a love of nature in our daughter; this is embedded further with the trips to the park, woods and farms. It is also lovely to see Rachel meet with other providers so provide more opportunities for socialisation.

The progress my daughter has made astounds me and Rachel is always identifying next steps that are targeted in a play-based approach. Her setting is well resourced and encourages independence. My daughter is often praised when out and about for politeness, table manners and turn taking - this has come largely from the nurturing at Rachel's as she consolidates anything we want to work on at home. Right now she is supporting us with getting ready for a dentist visit!

At this point I'd like to add how lovely Rachel's children and husband are. Her three children have developed a fantastic relationship with my daughter and they are just the most well-mannered and kind young people. It really is like she is an extra member of their household! I love the videos she send of them all having fun or snuggling up with a book.

I am so thankful that we found Rachel and she really has got it right at Rachel's Little Stars! Rachel: you are an angel!

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• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication