Bay Buddies

About Me

Welcome to Bay Buddies.

My name is Aely and I am a former teacher, qualified SENCO, mum of 6 and grandma of 4. Children are what I do! I am a childminder in Whitley Bay working with my husband Paul. We are both fully registered with OFSTED, DBS checked and hold current Paediatric First Aid training as does our daughter who also helps. We offer full or part time day childcare for preschool children and wrap around care picking up and dropping off from Marine Park First School and Valley Gardens Middle School.

Our ethos is fairly simple, we are family and this is a home. A busy, lively happy home and we want you and your children to feel at home and part of our extended family here. The fact that there are two of us who offer different experiences and perspective is a terrific bonus for the children. Childcare is traditionally female led and the balance provided by Paul allows us to actively demonstrate that men are fantastic carers too.

I am passionate about books and sharing stories forms an integral part of everyday in this house. I hope any children who come here will develop a love of reading, just as my own children do. Creativity, imagination, vocabulary are encouraged and extended everyday.l and we are an accredited communication supporting setting.

Paul is a keen gardener and believes in getting his hands dirty. If something needs doing or there is a problem to solve he comes up with creative ways to fix it, involving even the smallest children and we are developing our allotment so the Buddies can play there too.

We are also big believers in the outdoors. We live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world with a stunning coastline, amazing parks and countless opportunities to get out there and discover the world. Every single day will include opportunities to find adventure outdoors, in our safe enclosed garden or out and about in the area, whatever the weather.

Children learn best when they discover for themselves. We like to cook and grow our own food, stomp in puddles, build dens, look for bugs, paint pictures, sing songs, read stories, get dirty, smile, build models, run, jump, play in water and sand, get outdoors, measure, create, experiment and have fun.

Come and play!

*Kate June 30, 2020

By far my best decision made of 2020.....

Hugo was set to attend here in September but with no school option currently and me working during this already difficult time, I approached Aely earlier than planned and she was happy to help.

In such a short time, Hugo is extremely settled and happy here. And I can tell in my little boy!

He cant wait to tell me what he has done that day. Aely has really helped with his development over a short time.

Having not used a childminder before, I was unsure what to expect. Aely has made both Hugo and I feel very comfortable with Hugo’s new surroundings.

A fabulous structure is in place within her home for all the children and I can go to work knowing he is in good hands.

Aely clearly spends time planning her days and activities with the children and the little touches like the photos of the smile on Hugo’s face are lovely & reassuring.

Aely gets to know the children on a real personal level.....like knowing Hugo doesn’t like hotdogs but if she said “sausages in a bun“ for lunch - he will clear the plate. It’s the little things that make things work for us all!

Creativity, Imagination & Outdoor play are all part of the day - Amazing work Aely!*

*Julie June 25, 2020

I highly recommend Bay Buddies Childcare, the daily content of activities, regardless of age, is absolutely fantastic and your child is learning without even realising it because Aely and Paul make it so FUN.*

*Laura Feb 7, 2020

Having previously used a nursery provider, we wanted something more homely for Max when we needed a new setting. I honestly never expected the level of planning, thought, energy and time you put in for the care you provide for your children. I thought Max was busy when he was in a nursery setting but the sheer variety of activities and experiences you have given him in just the month that he has been with you is amazing. Every day is something new and exciting, so well planned and directly targeting his interests and his personal development. I'm now a firm believer in childminders being most able to provide tailored, meaningful, educational experiences in a family environment. We couldn't be more pleased with how this has worked out for our family?*

*Sarah Oct 8, 2019 ·

A wonderful homely setting, where everyone is made welcome. My daughter always has so much fun when visiting. Baking, crafts and walks along the bay, no day is the same plenty of learning and adventure awaits.*