Georgia

Disappointed

I’m disappointed with how this situation was handled. While I understand that not every childcare setting is the right fit for every child, I feel the approach taken lacked communication and flexibility.

My son is only one year old, and the behaviours described—needing comfort, becoming upset, and requiring attention—are all age-appropriate. It would have been helpful to see more understanding of this, particularly as young children naturally take time to settle into new environments. There had also been a gap in his attendance due to a number of reasons, which would likely have contributed to him being more unsettled.

I was also concerned that responsibility appeared to be linked to my son in relation to another child’s accident. At his age, he is not capable of understanding or controlling situations in that way, and I feel this was unfairly presented. Accidents do happen with young children, and while upsetting, it is not appropriate to attribute this to the needs of a one-year-old.

This situation arose during a difficult time for our family following a recent bereavement, which had been communicated and understandably affected my son’s behaviour.

Communication was a key issue. I was informed via text message that it would be his last day, with no prior verbal discussion, and I was not made aware that a decision had been reached to end his placement. There was no opportunity to explore possible solutions, adjustments, or a gradual resettling process, which was disappointing.

The timing was particularly difficult, as I was due to return to work the following week, leaving very little time to arrange alternative childcare.

Overall, while I appreciate the honesty in saying the setting may not have been suitable, I would have expected a more supportive, communicative, and considerate approach—especially given my son’s age and the circumstances at the time. I would encourage other parents to consider their individual needs and their child’s stage of development carefully when choosing this setting.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication

by Georgia about Michelle (Childminder) on 02/05/2026