Gemma cared for my daughter from the age of 11 months until she started school at five. My daughter was a high needs baby, so I worried about whether she would settle with anyone who wasn’t me. Gemma offers a very high level of attuned care, and was flexible in meeting my daughter’s needs. As a result, my daughter settled so well and was incredibly happy with Gemma.

Gemma has a very calm home and a truly gentle nature, and this plays out in the interactions between her, her children and her minded children. Her lovely teenage daughter is endlessly patient and wonderful with the little ones. I still see Gemma’s gentle style in the way my daughter thinks things through, interacts with others and resolves conflict.

I was very happy with the opportunities Gemma offered for independent play, alongside taking the children on great days out (her Willows membership is well used!). Gemma offers delicious home cooked food and my usually fussy daughter ate really well with her and her family.

Gemma also recognised and met my daughter’s special educational needs as these emerged, and worked closely with me to do so. She supported my decision to start my summer-born daughter at school at compulsory school age, and gave me helpful advice about choosing a preschool and school. I always found her approachable and supportive. She shared regular updates and photos of my daughter‘s day which are lovely to receive, and to look back on.

My daughter remembers her ‘Gemma days’ with great affection. Gemma and her family have become our lifelong friends, and my daughter loves Gemma’s lovely children. I couldn’t have wished for a better start in life for my child, and I will always be grateful to Gemma.

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