Words cannot describe our gratitude to Kina and her daughter, Priya who is also a childminder, and the rest of her family for looking after our little girl and by extension us as a young family. From the moment we met Kina we just knew she was the right fit. She has so much experience (it is not unusual to bump into teenagers or other parents in New Malden that Kina has looked after in the past )is so conscientious, professional, kind, very loving, diligent and values honesty. Our little girl joined when she was just under one and settled in easily to the extent that to this day she still calls Kina her ‘grandmother’ and asks to go to her house. Not only is she close with Kina, she is also close with Priya. If we happen to meet in soft play, she always runs towards them for a big reunion cuddle. Kina is excellent at understanding children, their different needs and able to adapt as per their requirements. For example, my little girl is quite strong minded, and Kina knows that if she speaks to her in a quieter voice, and tells her in advance of plans, she will respond better. My little girl would never nap at home, but at Kina‘s place, she could crawl up next to Kina on the sofa, and sleep there! Kina, cooks wonderful and wholesome home-made meals, and really gets to know the child’s diet. She knows that if my daughter says no to eating (tantrum) but gives her a few minutes of space, she will go back to the table peacefully. All of the children and parents that Kina and Priya look after have formed a little community and we even go for dinner as a means to keep in touch and support each other. The only reason why we left Kina’s care is because we moved house- it was a hard decision to part and truly felt heartbreaking. Kina and her family were very much part of the ‘village’ young families need. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kina, you won’t regret it.

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