Iva

A Heartfelt ‘Thank You’ for our Auntie DD

I have been searching for the right words for days, but nothing feels quite enough to capture the gratitude I feel. For a year and a half, Durrey has been far more than a childminder to my family — she has been a second mother to my little boy, a steady source of love, stability, and joy during some of the busiest and most precious years of his young life.

From the moment we first met her, we felt an instant sense of trust and warmth. She welcomed my son with open arms and a gentle smile that immediately put both him and me at ease. At an age when little ones can feel the uncertainty of change, she created a home away from home that was filled with laughter, structure, kindness, and endless love. Every single day, he was cared for not just attentively, but with a deep, genuine love that shone through in everything she did.

In her care, my son absolutely thrived. I watched him grow in confidence, curiosity, and happiness in ways that filled my heart. He went from being a slightly shy toddler to a chatty, sociable little boy who would proudly tell us about his day — the songs they sang, the games they played, the stories she read with all the funny voices. She nurtured his development so beautifully: encouraging his milestones with patience and celebration, supporting his speech and language through constant conversation and play, and helping him learn important skills like sharing, empathy, and independence at his own gentle pace. He learned to love books because of the cosy reading corners she created, discovered the joy of painting and crafting with her creative activities, and built physical confidence through the safe outdoor play she provided.

What touched me most was how well she truly knows him. She noticed the little things that only someone who cares deeply would see — when he was coming down with a cold before we even realised, his favourite way to be comforted during a tricky moment, or the exact song that would make him light up and dance. On days when he felt a bit unsettled or missed me, she would send the most reassuring photos and messages that eased my heart instantly. She celebrated every tiny achievement as if he were her own. That level of emotional investment is rare and incredibly precious.

Our precious Auntie DD brought such creativity and thoughtfulness to every day. She planned activities around the seasons, incorporated his interests into learning, and made sure every child in her care felt special and seen. Her home was always calm yet full of life, clean and safe, but never sterile — it was a place where children could explore, make mess, laugh loudly, and feel completely free to be themselves. Her communication was outstanding: detailed updates, photos that captured genuine moments of joy, and honest, caring conversations about his progress and any worries. She worked in true partnership and always respecting our wishes while offering her gentle, experienced guidance.
Leaving my son with her each morning became one of the easiest parts of my day because I knew, without a shadow of doubt, that he was loved, protected, stimulated, and happy. She gave us the priceless gift of peace of mind so I could focus on work, knowing my most treasured little person was not just “cared for,” but truly cherished.

As we now move on to the next chapter, our hearts are full of gratitude mixed with sadness at saying goodbye. Durrey has left an indelible mark on our son’s early years and on my family forever. She helped shape him into the bright, affectionate, confident boy he is today, and we will always speak of her with love and admiration.
If you are a parent searching for someone to entrust with your child’s heart and happiness, stop looking. Durrey is that rare person who pours her whole soul into the children she cares for. She is professional, experienced, warm, patient, and endlessly kind. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

Thank you, our precious Auntie DD from the very bottom of our hearts. Thank you for loving my boy so completely, for every cuddle, every giggle you shared, every milestone you helped him reach, and for being such a beautiful presence in his life. You will always hold a special place in our family’s story. We love you and will miss you dearly. ❤️

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by Iva about durrey zeb (Childminder) on 17/07/2026

Response by durrey zeb on 17/07/2026:

Thank you so much Dr Ava, for your beautiful and heartfelt review. Your kind words truly mean the world to me.

It has been an absolute pleasure caring for your wonderful little boy and watching him grow. Thank you for trusting me with someone so precious. I will always cherish the memories we’ve made together and will miss you all dearly.

Wishing your family all the happiness and success in this exciting new chapter. Please keep in touch. ❤️

With love

Durrey (Auntie DD)