When looking for a childminder for my first son I visited approximately 12 different childminders, none of whom I felt comfortable leaving my son with for one reason or another. I was on the verge of giving up and trying a nursery (something I didn't feel was right for my shy boy) when I was recommended Alison. I knew the instance I met Alison, and was welcomed into her home, she was the one to trust with my son. I have never looked back, he has been with Alison since 18months and even though he attends preschool now he still likes to visit and have days at Alison's in the holidays!

The setting is a lovely big airy house with a delightfully large back garden, the donkeys, which are sometimes in the paddock behind, really do put a smile on the children's faces.

Alison provides excellent care, she is fair with the children, but also sets boundaries, which the children happily respect, this also feeds into the family home supporting rules and boundaries set at home. Alison is great at working with parents on anything that may concern, including helping with potty training, which helped my son greatly.

The activities and trips planned are very educational, the children learn so much without even realising they are learning as they have such fun in doing so. No weather is bad weather, Alison asks that the children have sufficient clothing so that she can take them to planned trips. This pleases my son greatly as he is a real out doors little boy.

The feedback is constant, monthly folders of the children's time and the activities they have carried out are given for review. They are so detailed with the children's work and photos we look forward to this each month!

My shy son settled in very quickly, and loves the whole family, especially Alison's own son who entertains the little ones so well. I felt so happy and confident with the progress of my eldest, as soon as my second son was born I reserved a space for him. All of the above now applies to him!

I cannot recommend Alison highly enough!