Helen looked after my daughter from the age of 11 months on a full time basis. It was difficult for me to leave her but Helen has such a kind, calm and nurturing manner that my daughter responded really well to being there and I always felt totally reassured that she was happy and well looked after while in Helen's care. I saw a huge increase in her confidence and self assurance in different environments during her time with Helen too.

Helen has a safe and secure setting which my daughter, in her just walking stage, was able to move freely in. Her garden also adds another safe environment for the children to explore. Helen, being aware of my daughter’s enjoyment of music and singing, always attended at least one singing/'rhyme time' group each week. She adapted her daytime routine in accordance with the children's nap time so she was able to get home in the afternoon for my daughter to have a sleep in a cot after a homemade lunch as my daughter did not sleep well out and about.

I really feel Helen encourages and stimulates the development of the children in her care, setting up sensory games and various exploration for them.

Everyday Helen completes a communication diary that came home for us to see. She also sent pictures and little updates to me throughout the day as well as updating 'tapestry' the online observation tool so I got those updates. The pictures and notes for these updates are put along side the early learning goals so I could see how she was getting on in terms of her development.

My daughter loved her time with Helen and it was only another baby coming along that made me take her out of Helen’s setting. I would highly recommend Helen to any parents looking for an amazing childminder.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication