Our son started at Cheeky Chops when he was just over a year old and attended three days a week until he started school. We honestly couldn't have asked for a more wonderful childminder.

From our very first settling-in session, we knew we had made the right choice. Sheila encouraged me to stay and spend time seeing what his days would be like, and our son was so happy and comfortable that he didn't want to leave. That gave us so much reassurance knowing he was going to be spending his days somewhere he already felt happy and comfortable.

Sheila’s home is such a lovely setting for children. It is calm, cosy, bright, very clean and organised, while still feeling like a normal family home rather than a nursery. The children have a lovely open space to play, with space for crafts, role play, dressing up and imaginative play. Everything is thoughtfully organised and easily accessible, and the children are encouraged to help tidy away after themselves, which helps build their independence. The garden is also a safe and lovely space for outdoor play.

Sheila creates such a warm and caring environment where the children really feel part of the family. Our son always felt comfortable and happy there, and both Sheila and her daughter Lily were wonderful at comforting him whenever he needed it. Lily became one of his best friends.

Sheila was also brilliant at following our routines at home. She supported us with things like naps and potty training by keeping things consistent with what we were doing, which made such a difference. She understood that every child is different and never forced things, but gently encouraged them in a way that worked for each child.

Sheila also kept us involved in his days by sharing photos of activities and trips, and always took the time at pick-up to tell us what he had been doing and how his day had been.

Sheila provided so many opportunities for the children to learn and explore through activities such as crafts, baking, outdoor play, walks and trips to the park. She also encouraged their independence and helped prepare them so well for school through everyday routines and learning new skills.

Even though he attended another setting during the week, Cheeky Chops was always the place he was most excited to go. He would even ask to see Sheila at weekends! Almost a year after leaving, he still talks about Sheila and asks when he can see her again, which really shows the special bond they built.

As parents, trusting someone with your child is a huge decision, and we trusted Sheila completely. Knowing our son was safe, happy and genuinely excited to go there gave us complete peace of mind.

We feel incredibly lucky to have found Cheeky Chops. Sheila has been such an important part of our son's early years and we will always be grateful for everything she has done for him. We cannot recommend her highly enough.

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