Like most Mummies I was dreading having to leave my precious baby with anyone when I returned to work after maternity leave. I sought the one on one care that a childminder could offer. My little boy was just seven months old and my husband and I believed that a childminder would offer us the right balance of care and love that we believe is essential to our son's development.

And in Val we have found the most wonderful, loving, friendly, caring and nurturing childminder. From day one Val has given our little boy the love and care she gave her own daughter and I have not had a moment's worry about him, his well being or his happiness. He took very little time to settle and in the two years he has been with Val he has grown into the delightful toddler he is today.

Every day Val has something planned for the children she looks after and she takes our son out to different places and groups where he gets to take part in all sorts of games, play, singing, crafts and educational activities, mix with other children and socialise with other adults.

Val's home is so warm and welcoming and a place we regard as a second home for our son (and us). He bounces in and plays as if it were indeed his own home. He has access to a playroom full of toys and books that stimulate him and help him to learn through play and having fun. He also enjoys normal family life in Val's home and loves playing with the animals and pottering in the garden. I would say he has the perect balance of activity and downtime. He often tells me that he will miss Val at the end of his day with her and always gives her a hug and kiss when he leaves. And that close trusting relationship is so reassuring for parents. All we want is for our children to be happy and secure and with Val our son is all that and more.

In addition I feel I can ask Val if I ever need a few additional hours here and there, which we all need from time to time. We do of course ensure that these situations are rare but there is never a problem.

Val invests so much energy and enthusiasm into her vocation and that really shows in the bright, happy and confident children that she takes care of.

I would have no hesitation in recommending Val to anyone looking for a wonderful, kind, thoughtful and conscientious childminder. I trust her implicitly and am very thankful for the love she shows our little boy. He is flourishing in her care and we consider her an important part of our family.