My son went to Lesley's from the time he was a year until he started school at 4. My daughter was with Lesley from 6 months.

Lesley taught me alot about how children learn, and it was great to have someone who knew the ropes on our side. I always felt that Lesley was totally engaged with both my kids; that she liked and understood them.

When my son was nervous about going to nursery school, Lesley worked with the managers of a local nursery to introduce him to the idea very gradually, while she was at a playgroup in the same centre, to give him a bit of independence but so that he would know where she was.

I'm certain a large part of my kid's outgoing, independent nature comes from spending time with Lesley. I'd highly recommend her as a childminder.

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• Communication