Lara
Childminder in Watford
Usually responds within 4 hours
Member since Jul 2025 Last Updated Sep 2025 Last Login 07 Oct 2025
My Summary
Little Darlings Childcare
About Me
Hiya, my name is Lara I run Little Darlings Childcare, based in Watford, WD24.
With over 10 years of experience working alongside my mum as an assistant childminder. I now offer childminding services from my own home, I create a warm, stimulating environment for children to learn, grow, and have fun.
I’m Ofsted registered, and I follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to ensure that all children in my care receive the best possible start. I believe that learning through play is key to a child’s development, and I strive to provide a variety of activities that help children explore and express themselves.
At home, I live with my husband and our 23 month old son, who loves having new friends to play and learn with. We also have a small dog.
We’re lucky to have a large, outdoor garden that's perfect for active play. With swings, slides, an in ground trampoline, tree house, boat, ride-on cars, trucks, and plenty more there’s always something exciting to explore and enjoy!
We also love going on trips out to the zoo, farms, and the local parks, as well as plenty of other exciting places. These outings give children the chance to explore nature, learn about animals, play outdoors, and build their confidence in new environments.
I currently have availability for 2025/26.
If you're looking for a childminder who is caring, experienced, and dedicated to your child's early development, I would love to chat more and see how I can support you and your little one.
Look forward to hearing from you
Lara
My Experience
For over 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of working as a childminder. Throughout this time, I've developed a deep understanding of children's needs, from their emotional and social development to ensuring they are safe and engaged.
I try to create a warm, supportive, and educational environment that allows each child to thrive and reach their full potential.
With a strong focus on creating a home from home setting, I understand how important it is for parents to feel at ease knowing their children are well cared for, and I work hard to build trusting relationships with both children and families.
As a parent myself, I understand the importance of patience, consistency, and the balance of setting boundaries while also encouraging independence.
My role as a mum has only enhanced my skills as a childminder, as it allows me to relate to both the children in my care and their families on a more personal level. Throughout the day I send regular updates and photos of what we get up to.
I prioritize open communication with parents, and I’m always committed to providing the best care possible, just as I would for my own child.
Over the years, I’ve gained valuable experience in managing different age groups, crafting age appropriate activities, and adapting my approach to meet each child’s unique personality and needs.
My goal is always to ensure that the children I care for feel safe, and happy.
My Qualifications
Childminding Qualification NVQ 3
Pediatric First Aid
DBS (Husband too)
Full Clean Driving Licence
Safe Guarding
My Availability
Monday to Thursday, between 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before School | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| Morning | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| Afternoon | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| After School | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| Evening | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Overnight | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Last Updated: 17/09/2025 | |||||||
My Fees
- Childminding from £8.00 per hour
My Local Schools
This childminder has not yet informed us whether or not they provide any drop off or pick up services at local schools.
My Ofsted Inspections
The inspection grades below have been obtained from the Ofsted website based upon the registration number the childminder has provided to us. You should verify this information yourself prior to using the childminder.
My Documents
- DBS Check (added 21/07/2025)
- Ofsted Certificate (added 16/07/2025)
- UK Driving Licence (added 08/07/2025)
Reviews
5 out of 5
Parents say
The childminder is highly praised for providing excellent care in a nurturing environment. Parents appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, engaging activities, and outstanding communication. The outdoor space is highlighted as a significant asset. Overall, the childminder is described as trustworthy, attentive, and highly recommended by parents.
Summary generated by AI from the text of recent member reviews
Latest reviews
Below are the latest reviews for Lara . Please note that reviews represent the subjective opinions of other Childcare.co.uk members and not of Childcare.co.uk. Parents must carry out their own checks and references on childcare providers to ensure that they are completely happy before enaging in the use of their services.
Being a first time parent, trying to find someone you trust with your 5 month old daughter, is a daunting thing but, from the moment we met Lara, we just knew she was the perfect childminder. Lara genuinely is everything a parent and child could wish for (and more) - she is nurturing, personable, kind, patient, creative and intelligent. Drop offs were always so welcoming, with lots of smiles, meaning as a parent, you are instantly at ease. Lara would often go out for the day or, have fun tasks set up for the days in which would be stimulating for children of all ages. Her outside space is incredible and suitable for all weather. We are beyond lucky to have had Lara looking after our daughter from such a young age to now 2 years old and we genuinely cannot recommend her enough! Lara is honestly the complete package.
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Grace
on 03/10/2025
As a parent you want to know that your child is cared and loved for when you’re not able to and Lara provides just that.
Every day is a new adventure, as Lara provides so many great developmental activities, with an incredible indoor and outdoor setting for lots of play time, in a safe manner. But also ensures the children are visiting local places to aid in their development and learning.
She also provides great communication throughout the day by sharing photos, videos and updates on naps, what they have been up to etc.
Lara is incredibly welcoming and has a real way with children, my daughter loves staying at Lara’s and I couldn’t recommend her enough!
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Dominic
on 19/09/2025
Lara is so brilliant. Myself and my husband were so relieved to find someone we can trust and our daughter absolutely adores. Lara is so caring, attentive and nurturing and creates a home away from home for all the children she looks after, it’s clean, tidy and a safe space for kids. Lara offers such a great set up, the outdoor area is a massive perk too. Lara’s communication is outstanding, as first time parents this was key for us and really appreciate all the updates through out the day and key information. Our daughter absolutely adores Lara. We would absolutely highly recommend Lara!
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Char
on 18/09/2025
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This profile has been produced from information provided to us by the user. We have not verified or confirmed the accuracy of any of the information and members should undertake their own vigorous checks and references. Please ensure you read our Safety Advice and information on how to Check Childcare Provider Documents.
