I was very apprehensive and anxious when initially looking for a child minder. My daughter Lilia was just about to turn 2 yrs old and previously been looked after by my sister for the past year. How was I going to find someone who would love Lilia as much as my sister?

Then I met Sharon, who was the first of 6 child minders that I arranged to meet. The minute I met Sharon I knew I wanted her to look after Lilia. She is so knowledgeable about children's development and even though I am a Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist who has worked with children for over 15yrs, I have asked her for advice on numerous occasions. Because she was a nursery manager she has a wealth of experience to call upon. Sharon follows the foundation stage curriculum and Lilia has completed so many brilliant creative activities. I have received homemade mother's day card, valentines biscuits, plants to grow in the garden, and many homemade cakes. Sharon also makes lovely, healthy home cooked meals which my daughter enjoyed. Everyday I would read in her link book, what Lilia had eaten, how long she had slept, what she liked playing with, and any funny anecdotes. As a part time working mum it was lovely to read and when we got home I would read it to my daughter so we could talk about her day together.

The most important thing is that Sharon and her family made my daughter and extended member of their family. If Lilia was a bit unwell, or tired or just in one of those moods I knew Sharon would instinctively give her cuddles on the sofa which is so important when you are worrying at work.

I had the privilege of Sharon caring and looking after my daughter for a year and the only reason she is not looking after her now is because I am currently on maternity leave for the next year with my son. Without any hesitation I can highly recommend Sharon and her family. Every morning my daughter was keen to go to Sharon's and often still talks about Sharon and her friends (two other children who were also looked after by Sharon). I'm desperately hoping that in a year's time she will have a space to look after my son.

Jo Hickey
February 2013