Kate Linehan looked after our daughter, Cloe, between September 2014 and December 2015. During that time Cloe was very much treated as part of the family and clearly felt very comfortable with Kate, Eddie, Sophie and Mia. We were very happy with the care that Cloe received and the great progress that she made. The only reason that we have stopped using Kate's childminding services is that we are moving to Spain.

Kate has converted her home into an excellent setting for the children to play and learn together. The playroom is well equipped with a wide range of toys and educative materials, as well as comfortable furniture. In addition to allowing the children time to free play with each other, Kate regularly organised a fun schedule of activities, including various crafts such as painting and card making, vegetable gardening and learning through role play.

Kate always ensured that Cloe and the other children in her care received lots of outside exposure. In addition to the school run and regular visits to local playgroups and the library, Kate often took the children on other fun trips, including nature walks, museums and visits to attractions such as the circus and the local Christmas displays.

Kate was excellent at communicating with us about Cloe. On top of the daily chats at drop-off and pick-up time, Kate kept us well informed via Whatsapp and the online diary in the Baby's Days site, including through pictures and videos. Kate was also clearly very good at communicating with the children, including in respect of discipline issues where such was necessary.

Kate was always very flexible and willing to accommodate our work schedules. On several occasions, Kate looked after Cloe outside of her contracted hours and/or on different days, which was a huge help for us.

We would happily recommend Kate to anybody in need of childminding services. She is a great childminder and a lovely and caring person too.

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• Communication