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Read my references below - starting from 2008
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Helen has been watching Bryony for nearly 2 years and it has been the best thing that I have ever done, changing from a nursery to Helen, for a number of reasons including that my daughter had terrible eating problems and since she has been with Helen these seem to have gone away and Bryony eats very well now.
Helen has provided care, support and stability in Bryony’s life particularly whilst her father and I split up and I am very grateful for this. With Helen confidentiality is respected.
I am always kept up to date with what is happening and at the end of everyday Helen tells me what Bryony has ate and everything she has done during the day something which I never had when she was in the nursery.
Helen’s home is always clean and tidy as well as smoke free and is a good place for my Bryony’s development, where she can also get fresh air and exercise in Helen’s garden and also enjoys the times at the local church hall.
Helen has Bryony doing many varied activities including colouring in, making things and gives her one to one interaction, which has been crucial in Bryony’s development in her early years.
I know that Helen is up to date with training, her own professional development and legislation and we have regular reviews together on Bryony’s progress.
Helen has a great relationship with all the children; they all respect her and are all very well looked after. I trust Helen very much which I think is the most important thing when it comes to your children.
G. B. Renfrew
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Helen has been my daughter lia's childminder for just over 2 months now. Already I can't believe the difference it has made to her development and -confidence.
Lia is a very excitable and happy 10month old. I can see the benefits of her being in Helen’s care. It is a relief for me not having to worry about my daughter when I am at work; it has made me a happier person as well!
I had Lia at a nursery for over a month prior to being at Helen’s when I noticed Lia was unhappy in the environment and care of the nursery. The nursery staff would tell me mostly every day I went to collect Lia that she had been very unsettled through the day and refused a lot of her food, Lia would also be covered in food from head to t{)e due to them not using bibs at feeding times. I would hear more negative than positive comments from them and they were unable to comfort Lia when she was crying, Lia’s nappy did not get -changed as regular as I had wanted and therefore she developed quite severe nappy rash.
In Helen’s care it is the complete opposite. Helen home is lovely and tidy and I know my daughter is in a safe, hygienic and comfortable environment. I have seen all Helen’s qualifications and courses, so I know she is more than qualified to look after Lia.
I really enjoyed listening to Helen talking of all the activities and fun Lia has got up to everyday plus we have or two-way diary which Helen set up, she goes into detail about everything which is having happened to Lia throughout the day which is really helpful and reassuring. Helen is very easy to talk to and makes you feel comfortable.
When Lia's dad or I go to collector at Helen’s, Lia is always there to greet us with a smile and a giggle which shows she is a much happier little girl now.
At first I was anxious about the thought of a childminder as I didn't think Lia would have the same interaction with the other children or she would get at a nursery, however my fears were unfounded as there is lots of socialising both at the playgroup she goes to twice a week and also \"lith. the other children in Helen's care. Also on first meeting with Helen I immediately sensed her warm and caring nature and was put at ease straightaway.
It therefore had no hesitation in choosing Helen to look after my daughter and it has proved to be one of the best decisions I have ever made! 
L.M. Renfrew |
Helen has been Tierney's childminder for almost a year now and she loves going there for 5 days of the week.
When I first met Helen, it was obvious we had a lot of views and values in common where childcare was concerned. I immediately felt at ease talking to her and she was very informative with every aspect of childcare. Within this past year I have found her to be very supportive and approachable at all times. As well as trusting and respecting her, I know that I can speak to her in confidence at any time. Helen keeps me fully informed at all times with regard to Tierney.
At the end of each day, Tierney always has lots to talk about with regard to what she has been doing at Helen's, even if it is only for a couple of hours after school, there is always something motivational and inspirational Helen has initiated within that time. I actually find it all very interesting myself when Tierney tells me about one of the many things Helen has taught her whether it be the history behind St Andrew's Day or a cultural festival such as Diwali. With Mother's Day just passed, it would be worthwhile to mention the beautiful cards and works of art I received from Tierney after being at Helen's.
Tierney's first question every morning is 'am I going to Helen's today, and if I am, is it before AND after school?' with the reply always "Yippee!”if she is, and getting her to leave at the end of the day usually proves to be a somewhat arduous task! It is such a safe, clean and happy environment with plenty opportunities for both indoor and outdoor play. Lots of space to explore, learn and play. A very welcoming atmosphere with fun and activities galore. Furthermore there are always wholesome, nutritious meals or snacks available.
On a final note, Helen is clearly committed to all aspects of children's emotional, social and intellectual development and shows an obvious enjoyment of children in her care. She promotes relevant learning and development, by instilling good values whilst listening attentively to the children and answering carefully. Also, all documentation including registration, qualifications, insurance, inspection reports etc is kept fully up to date and distributed to parents accordingly and any new policies or procedures are shared.
Helen is an absolute “natural” who never hesitates to go that “extra mile”.
K.A. Renfrew
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QUALITY OF CARE
The care that Helen gives to my child is one of a very high standard and I would not think twice about recommending Helen to anyone. The opportunity is always there to discuss my Childs progress with Helen as I drop her in the morning and also when I return to pick her up. Our confidentiality is always respected by \Helen and we are comfortably able to discuss any matters with her. Communication is a very important skill to a parent to be able to communicate with the child care provider and we have never had any issues with this, we are always able to discuss with Helen the stages that our child is at with progressing through toddler hood, a mutual, verbal contract is always made when discussing aspects of care, and I am pleased to say that Helen supports ourselves with new things that we are introducing to our child.
QUALITY OF ENVIROMENT
Helen’s home is always safe, hygienic, smoke free, clean and always immaculate. The stages of our Childs development is always taken into account and regularly discussed between myself and Helen who is very important to ensure no confusion for our child. Our child always has opportunities to fresh air and exercise; walks are a highlight of our Childs week along with soft play participation as well as participating in the ABC group which again encourages great socialising and interpersonal skills. When the weather is suitable our child enjoys hours of safe fun outside in the garden with a large range of toys and educational aids. I believe that Helen’s house and garden is a very safe environment and would never question that, Helen has provided a very detailed book of her policies and procedures along with the vast amount of qualifications that she has.
QUALITY OF STAFFING
As a nurse a healthy, balanced diet is a must for my child, and she always has a vast range of healthy options to choose from for meals along with healthy snacks. I think that it is great that my child has a choice (within reason) of good, healthy food to choose from, which is not always available to people who choose to use child carers, but in this instance we are very lucky. My child also has the opportunity to decide what activities she wishes to participate with through-out the day which I think is excellent as it allows her individual personality to come through along with her interests, this also promotes equality and self esteem for her. Helen encourages positive behaviour which again is very important to ourselves, along with manners and politeness which is a very important skill for our child to carry throughout her life and it’s great that we can integrate this at home and when we are not there, i.e. at work.
QUALITY OF MANAGEMANT AND LEADERSHIP
Helen has provided us with all up to date policies and legislation as well as Scottish social services council code of practice. Helen always supplies us with up to date evaluations of services and policies and by doing this shows us of Helen’s processional development.
Finally Helen is a great role model for my child and we would never hesitate to recommend her to anyone seeking child care. We are always 100% satisfied and happy with the care and service that is provided by a very professional, but caring lady.
K.T & F.T, Paisley |
Helen has been responsible for looking after my son (6) since the age of about 6 months. Lewis has attended Arkleston Primary School since 2006 and Helen provides Before/After school care as well as cover during the school holidays. Helen's willingness and flexibility in relation to providing cover is second to none.
Finding the "right" childminder for your child is probably the single most important concern to most parents and in Helen that concern is realised.
Helen takes great pains to explain to parents as to her methods of working and how these can benefit each child and what the expected result may be. No child has undue pressure placed on them to achieve and each is made to feel valued and loved. Parents' views and opinions in relation to such matters are actively encouraged and sought after.
Helen to a great extent is a "surrogate mum" who provides each child with the care and support that a parent would approve of. Each child is provided with homemade meals and various nutritional snacks throughout the day. The nature of these snacks and the variety change on a regular basis and parents are updated on a daily basis as to what their child has been provided with throughout the day. Children are also encouraged to participate in relation to deciding on which meal should be provided and take great delight in assisting if possible.
Helen is a first class motivator which is transposed to the children in her care. Helen recognises each child's strengths and weaknesses and actively encourages children to "try their best". She will explain to the children that they cannot be good at everything and that there is nothing wrong in that. Children are told that each and everyone of them has something to offer and the children support each other in this also. Since going to school Helen has endeavoured to tailor additional support in order to coincide with his school education.
Helen is a great believer in identifying each child's abilities and attributes and working towards enhancing these. At the same time Helen goes to great lengths to ensure that the children as a group participate in certain activities and the bonding amongst the children due to this is obvious to anyone who observes the children.
Any special event, such as a birthday, never goes unnoticed and will always be celebrated. The children are encouraged to discuss their feelings and the appropriate responses given.
If for any reason Helen notices that a child is "under the weather" then parents are immediately informed and very often Helen can predict that a child is about to "come down with something". Helen will advise parents of any concerns and offer her opinion as to how best resolve the issue. If Helen feels that a parent is avoiding an issue or not seeking a resolution to the child's problem then she is not afraid to voice her opinion and point the parent in the right direction.
Discipline is an important aspect in any child's life and it is important that they are aware of the accepted boundaries and that should they over step the mark then consequences will follow. Helen will always brief parents at the end of the day as to any" misdemeanours" that have occurred and gives the parent the option of commenting as to the action taken. All children are treated fairly and impartially and it is obvious to all that the children respect Helen and strive to seek her approval.
Helen is an experienced childminder who is always open to discussion no matter the topic. With Helen you feel as if you are working together, a "team effort" and you are never left feeling that she is "taking your place”.
Should there at any time be a differing of views then they are usually easily rectified and a compromise established.
When attending at Helens to collect Lewis it is obvious that he is more than happy in his environment and it is often the sound of laughter that greets you on the door opening. All the children are encouraged to "look out for one another" and the displays of affection amongst the children is heart warming and a joy to observe.
Helen will automatically volunteer an update as to what your child has achieved during their time with her each day and will update you as to any future events that are occurring and any plans she has in relation to the children.
1 would have no hesitation in recommending Helen as a childminder to anyone.
M.R. Renfrew |
Helen is an excellent child minder and I have total trust when Lucy is in her care. Lucy has really come on since being with Helen and the other kids in her care.
Myself and my husband visited Helen’s home before Lucy started. We were happy that it was a warm, friendly environment. Helen takes care to ensure that information related to me is kept confidential. Through communication Helen involve us in activities Lucy is undertaking while in her care.
Helen’s home is a warm, clean and friendly environment for the kids. I am slowly trying to get Lucy off nappies and Helen is always happy to be involved in these stages of Lucy’s progression. Helen has good outdoor space which is secure for the kids to play when whether permits. The kids can also be involved in the playgroup at the church hall two days a week. Here there are other childminder with their kids and there is plenty of room for the kids to run and play about in. Helen has the appropriate safety equipment e.g. Class seat, locked gates for outdoor space. The children are also taken to soft play areas.
Helen always provides home-made, healthy food and snacks. She provides flexible activities taking into account the child’s different needs and interests. The kids are involved in planning the activities. Helen encourages positive behaviour, builds self-esteem and ensures Lucy is happy in her care.
Helen shows that she is always up to date with legislation, guidelines and code of practice. She has regular reviews to evaluate the service with the parents. It is also apparent that Helen’s professional development is continuing.
I am delighted that Lucy has another positive influence in her life, in Helen. She enjoys for time with Helen and the other children in her care.
N.N. Renfrew
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Helen has looked after our daughter Rebecca, who is eight and a half since she was four months old.
Helen has always provided a safe, clean and comfortable environment for Rebecca and the other children in her care. While our childcare requirements have changed over the years and during term time Rebecca is only with Helen after school for a few hours for part of the week. There are always handmade craft items being brought home and personal cards to mark special occasions.such as birthdays and anniversaries.
Helen is excellent at teaching the children about different cultures and provides interesting fact sheets as well as helping them produce keepsakes to mark the Chinese New Year, St Andrews Day etc.
During school holidays we revert to full time childcare for most of the week. Weather permitting there is always outdoor activities and sports equipment for every age group to keep the children entertained. Also a group of childminders including Helen have use of a local church hall twice a week which gives all the children the opportunity to mix with other children of all ages and improve their social skills generally.
Helen has previously provided us with a handbook, which not only gives full details of her services but also includes important issues like health & safety measures and more basic topics e.g. first aid helpful hints.
All this information is continually updated to keep us fully up to date with new legislation, which as busy working parents is very helpful.
Helen has always provided books and toys to suit Rebecca’s age and development and is continually adding to her extensive collection.
Rebecca has continued to shown a particular interest in books and her reading skills are according to her teachers very good for her age. This is fully encouraged by Helen for example by letting Rebecca read stories to the younger children and taking an interest in her various school projects.
As intimated in all previous references we both feel that although Rebecca does not spend, as much time with Helen as when she was younger that part of her continuing progress & development is attributable to Helen’s influence.and would have no hesitation in recommending Helen to any of our friends.
Mr & Mrs W, Renfrew |
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2007 below |
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Helen has looked after our daughter Rebecca, who is nearly eight since she was four months old. Our childcare requirements have reduced over the years to just after school care for three days per week. However, we have continued to use Helen's excellent services practically full time during the school holidays.
As previously advised, Helen is also very helpful in caring for Rebecca at short notice in the event of an emergency.
Although her time with Helen is somewhat reduced, there is a constant flow of Rebecca's hand made arts & crafts that she has created after school time and there is always a surprise extra home made gift & card to mark special occasions such as Easter & Mothers /Fathers day. Helen also provides interesting leaflets and inforn1ation to make Rebecca & the other children aware of other cultures and celebrations. The Chinese New Year springs to mind as a recent topic.
Rebecca really enjoys her time at Helen's and is very fond of the younger children, and enjoys playing or reading to them.
As working parents, it is comforting to know that your child is being cared for in a safe & friendly environment. It is also worth mentioning that Helen keeps us fully informed of the latest regulations that she has to adhere too, as well as providing a detailed handbook which provides a wealth of information from creative ideas to medical advice
To summarise we both feel that although Rebecca does not spend, as much time with He1en as when she was younger that part of her continuing progress & development is attributable to Helen's involvement & influence and we would have no hesitation in recommending Helen to any of our friends.
Mr & Mrs W, Renfrew |
Helen has been looking after our son for 2 days a week for the last 2 years. We feel Aaron has benefited greatly from being in a homely and secure environment. Helen discusses any routines, concerns or problems fully with us resulting in a relaxed relationship.
Over the past 2 years Aaron’s development has progressed well with being cared for by Helen. There is always a good range of activities for all children to participate in whatever age. Aaron is always happy when going to Helens and he is always talking about his friends who are there with him and how much fun he has there.
Helen has shown time and again that she is dedicated to having a safe and fun environment for all the children and is regularly preparing games and learning activities for the kids after the children have gone home. Helen also attends a group with the children and other childminders from the local area with their children and we feel that the interaction with the other children helps in Aaron’s development there is also a very wide range of activities and outings arranged by the childminders and we feel that the organisation and planning of such events exceeds the normal expectations anyone would have for their child.
The personal attention Aaron receives from Helen whilst in her care is exactly the reason why we opted for using a childminder rather than a nursery and are very satisfied that from the moment we leave till we pick him up that he receives the level of care that we expect him to receive and having that peace of mind is very important.
We would highly recommend Helen as a childminder to anyone considering her and we are very happy the she is the person we choose to look after our son.
Mr & Mrs O’H, Renfrew
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My daughter Bryony has had Helen as a childminder for almost a year now. Before Bryony went to Helen she was at a nursery and I took her out as I was extremely unhappy with her being there. She had eating problems and was attending a paediatrician, therefore, it was imperative that I knew what and when my daughter was eating at all times. It felt as though at the end of the day when I had to pick her up the 'young' girls looking after her would write anything down on her food diary. I needed my child to be in a place where I knew her eating would be monitored and most of all she would be happy.
At first I was worried as there wouldn't be as much children at a childminder rather than a nursery. However, after a couple of weeks I knew I had made the right decision. Bryony began to eat all her meals, as a result her weight gain was huge and she was discharged from the paediatrician. She became a much happier child and her speech improved dramatically. I can only assume this is because of the amount of one to one Helen gives to each of her children.
Everyday when I pick my child up Helen tells me in-depth what Bryony has eaten. In the beginning Helen used to send me before and after pictures of Bryony’s meals so I knew how much she had eaten.
I can't praise Helen enough for what she has done for my daughter. Bryony is also very well behaved with Helen and when she is naughty I tell her she won't go to Helens if she doesn't behave herself- that usually works at treat! I have also seen how Helen is with the other children and they all love her. I couldn't have chosen a better person to look after my child and I know when she is at Helen’s she is in a safe environment and I wouldn't trust any other person with my daughter. I only wish I had taken Bryony to her much sooner and maybe her eating problems would have improved long before now.
G. B. Renfrew
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Helen has been responsible for looking after my son (6) since the age of about 6 months. Last year (2006) Lewis started Primary School and Helen provides Before/After school care as well as school holiday care. Helen takes great pains to explain to parents as to her methods of working and how these can benefit each child and what the expected result may be.
No child has undue pressure placed on them to achieve and each is made to feel valued and loved. Parents’ views and opinions in relation to such matters are actively encouraged and sought after. Helen to a great extent is a "surrogate mum" who provides each child with the care and support that a parent would approve of. Each child is provided with homemade meals and various nutritional snacks throughout the day. Children are also taken to various outlets such as Burger King and McDonalds at Helens own expense as part of their learning experience. Lewis has come to regard Helens house as being his "second home". Helen is a first class motivator which is transposed to the children in her care. Helen recognises each child’s strengths and weaknesses and actively encourages children to "try their best". She will explain to the children that they cannot be good at everything and that there is nothing wrong in that. Children are told that each and every one of them has something to offer and the children support each other in this also. Since going to school Helen has endeavoured to tailor additional support in order to coincide with his school education. The children are encouraged to take part in team events as well as having time to follow their individual interests. Any notable event (such as birthdays) is celebrated and children are made to feel "special”. Helen never fails to acknowledge an event and parties and presents are never far away!!!
If for any reason Helen notices that a child is ''under the weather" then parents are immediately informed and very often Helen can predict that a child is about to "come down with something". Helen will advise parents of any concerns and offer her opinion as to how best resolve the issue. If Helen feels that a parent is avoiding an issue or not seeking a resolution to the child’s problem then she is not afraid to voice her opinion and point the parent in the right direction. Likewise if a child is misbehaving then parents are informed as to the cause and the action taken to address the problem. I am more than happy with Helens methods in this respect as a child has to have discipline both at home and elsewhere. The fact that Helen uses methods similar to me means that on taking Lewis home from Helens I have no problem s trying to impose my methods on Lewis. It also means that children do not see Helen as a "soft option” and an excuse to "run amok" as they are well aware that bad behaviour is not acceptable. Helen is an experienced childminder who is always open to discussion no matter the topic. With Helen you feel as if you are working together, a "team effort" and you are never left feeling that she is "taking your place" ..
When attending at Helens to collect Lewis it is obvious that he is more than happy in his environment and on some occasions is reluctant to come home!!!!
All the children appear to have a genuine love and affection for each other and do not leave until they have given each and every "surrogate brother and sister" a kiss goodbye, not forgetting of course to keep the biggest hug and kiss for Helen.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Helen to any parent considering her services.
M. R., Renfrew
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Over the past few months Katie’s development has steadily grown with the help of Helen. Care is negotiated with Helen to what Katie’s exact needs are and Helen works with us in partnership to ensure Katie is getting the best quality of care and attention.Cognitive development: Helen ensures that Katie is provided with age appropriate toys encouraging her to take an interest in books, jigsaws, colouring exercises etc (which she loves!) to stimulate colour, alphabet and number recognition. Katie's speech is very developed for her age and can hold a conversation with us, which is partly down to the support and encouragement that Helen has given her, to enable her to be confident to try and express how she feels and express what she wants. Katie is also able to distinguish colours and is able to count to 15 which for her age is exceptional; again this is partly down to Helen who always ensures that Katie’s educational needs are being met from discussions with ourselves.Play: Katie is provided with age appropriate toys and is socially interacting with other children enabling her to form relationships. Play is both indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Katie attends a childminding group with Helen and the other children which again provides social interaction with a larger group of children. Play is always in a safe environment at Helens has stair gates and electric socket covers are clearly visible.Meals: Helen provides katie with a good healthy diet including fruit and veg which is very important for our little girl’s development. Katie is also encouraged to drink plenty of water. Along with healthy meals, healthy snacks are always up for grabs at Helens. Katie is now able to use a fork and spoon independently, which again has been with the support and encouragement of Helen! Katie is also a very good eater and will not turn her nose up at anything offered to her and this is through the variety and choice that Helen allows Katie to make regarding meal options. We are very happy that Katie receives a healthy balanced diet.Accidents: If there is an accident at Helens, there is a thorough report sent home to us which I think is very professional and informative to us to ensure Katie’s well being.Potty Training: Katie has now been potty trained since January 2007 and again this was aided by Helen who sat down and discussed with ourselves how she could continue the training as we were doing so at home so not to disrupt Katie’s routine. And I have to say it makes life a lot easier when we are all sticking to the same routines.Qualifications: We are fully aware of all Helens qualifications and are very impressed with how up to date all her practices are and how she is continuously updating her academic achievements.
The personal attention Katie receives from Helen in her care is of a high standard and we are very satisfied that from the moment we leave till we pick her up that she receives the level of care that we expect her to receive and having that peace of mind is very important to us. On a personal note Helen never lets mothers day, father’s day and birthdays etc pass without a card and gift which she helps Katie produce. We are very thankful that we have such a good role model for Katie to have when we are out at work as Helen respects us as much as we respect her and having a very open relationship allows us to know that Katie is receiving the exact care that we would give at home. Katie is always very happy to be at Helen's with all her little friends and there is days that we have to drag her away from the fun at Helen's.
K.T & F.T, Paisley
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My three youngest children have been going to Helen's for a few months now and I feel they have settled very well.
Both the children and I have a good relationship with Helen and I feel able to talk to Helen about any concerns I have and Helen has always spoken to me about any concerns or problems she has with the children.
I am very happy with the service Helen provides for me and my family.
S. L. Paisley
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2006 |
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Helen has been child minding my two daughters Zoe and Saskia (now 7yrs & 5yrs) since autumn 2004. Helen is a highly motivated individual who provided a variety of stimulating environments for my children, including creative, educational and play activities leaving me secure in the knowledge that my daughters enjoyed their time with Helen and came home stimulated and happy.
Helen is a highly motivated individual who provided a variety of stimulating environments for my children, including creative, educational and play activities leaving me secure in the knowledge that my daughters enjoyed their time with Helen and came home stimulated and happy.
High standards are priority whilst caring for children and when my daughters were in Helen's care she maintained exceptionally high standards at all times in all aspects of my daughters needs and requirements, whilst adhering to the policies and procedures set out by the Care Commission.
As an individual Helen is continually striving to continue her own self development, attending various courses and has recently created a website page of her own where she has provided information about herself and her role as a child minder.Zoe and Siskia loved being with Helen and my youngest daughter Saskia who spent more time in Helen's care developed a deep affection for her. (And she is not easily impressed!)
Helen is a kind, loving person who throughout the time we have known her has became an extended member of our family as well as a good friend.
I would highly recommend Helen as she is an excellent, devoted child minder and Zoe, Saakia and I will deeply miss her in our lives.I would like to take this opportunity to thank Helen for her flexibility and support since autumn 2004 and to wish her every success in the future.
Kind Regards
Mr & Mrs D |
Helen has been looking after our son for 2 days a week for the last 13 months. We feel Aaron has benefited greatly from being in a homely and secure environment. Helen discusses any routines, concerns or problems fully with us resulting in a relaxed relationship.
Over the past year Aaron’s development has progressed well with being cared for by Helen. There is always a good range of activities for all children to participate in whatever age. Aaron is always happy when going to Helen’s which makes leaving him a little easier to bear.
Helen has shown time and again that she is dedicated to having a safe and fun environment for all the children and is regularly preparing games and learning activities for the kids after the children have gone home. Helen also attends a group with the children and other childminders from the local area with their children and we feel that the interaction with the other children helps in Aaron’s development.
The personal attention Aaron receives from Helen whilst in her care is exactly the reason why we opted for using a childminder rather than a nursery and are very satisfied that from the moment we leave till we pick him up that he receives the level of care that we expect him to receive and having that peace of mind is very important.
We would highly recommend Helen as a childminder to anyone considering her and we are very happy that she is the person we choose to look after our son.
Mr & Mrs O’H, Renfrew
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Helen has looked after our daughter Rebecca, who is nearly seven since she was four months old. Our childcare requirements have reduced over the years to just after school care for three days per week. However, we have continued to use Helen’s excellent services practically full time during the school holidays.
Helen is also very helpful in taking Rebecca at short notice should an emergency situation arise as has occurred in the past.
Although her time with Helen is somewhat reduced, Rebecca is still bringing home arts & crafts that she has created after school time and there is always a surprise home made gift & card to mark special occasions such as Easter & Mothers /Fathers day.
Rebecca really enjoys her time at Helen’s and is very fond of the younger children, and enjoys playing or reading to them.
As parents, it is comforting to know that your child is being cared for in a safe & friendly environment.. It is also worth mentioning that Helen keeps us fully informed of the latest regulations that she has to adhere too, as well as providing a detailed handbook which provides a wealth of information from creative ideas to medical advice
To summarise , we both feel that although Rebecca does not spend, as much time with Helen as when she was younger that part of her continuing progress & development is attributable to Helen’s involvement & influence and would have no hesitation in recommending Helen to any of our friends.
Yours faithfully,
Mr & Mrs W, Renfrew |
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Helen has been our childminder and friend for about two years now and has been on hand with love and support for both Devin and myself. During this time I have noticed a significant development in Devin’s abilities; mentally, physically and socially, which I feel is a credit to Helen. Helen is also reliable and flexible and has gone above and beyond the call of duty on many occasions.
Like most children Devin’s age he is going through temper tantrums and outbursts. This can be a strain mentally however Helen handles this in her stride and tackles these obstacles with ease.
On every occasion e.g. birthdays, mother’s day, etc there is always a special specially made card and gift which I feel it’s thoughtful and the best gift a mother can get. I trust Helen with my child and trust her judgment when it comes to disciplining Devin.
Helen works hand in hand with us does on all aspects of Devin’s development and care and pith offers advice to myself whenever it is needed or asked for.
E. S., Renfrew
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This reference is for Helen who childminds for our daughter Katie (14months). Helen is a very professional and organised person who has also become our friend. Every attention to detail is given by Helen when it comes to caring for our child.
Over the past few months Katie’s development has steadily grown with the help of Helen. Care is negotiated with Helen to what Katie’s exact needs are and Helen works with us in partnership to ensure katie is getting the best start in life.
Cognitive development: Helen ensures that Katie is provided with age appropriate toys encouraging her to take an interest in books (which she loves!) to stimulate colour, alphabet and number recognition. Helen has also encouraged Katie to be verbal. Play: Katie is provided with age appropriate toys and is socially interacting with other children enabling her to form relationships. Play is both indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Katie attends a childminding group with Helen and the other children which again provides social interaction with a larger group of children. Helen has had a hand in Katie walking …which she did by the age of 13months.Play is always in a safe environment at Helens as stair gates and electric socket covers are clearly visible.
Meals: Helen provides katie with a good healthy diet including fruit and veg which is very important for our little girls development. Katie is also encouraged to drink plenty of water. Along with healthy meals, healthy snacks are always up for grabs at Helens. At present Helen is helping us to encourage Katie to feed herself which is going very well! We are very happy that Katie receives a healthy balanced diet at Helens.Qualifications: We are fully aware of all Helens qualifications and are very impressed with how up to date all her practices are and how she is continuously updating her academic achievements.The personal attention Katie receives from Helen in her care is exactly the reason why we choose a childminder rather than a nursery and are very satisfied that from the moment we leave till we pick her up that she receives the level of care that we expect her to receive and having that peace of mind is very important to us.
On a personal note Helen never lets mothers day, fathers day and birthdays etc pass without a card and gift which she helps Katie produce. Another personal note is that even when I passed my driving test I received a card which shows how good a relationship we have with Helen. We would be very happy to recommend Helen as a childminder to anyone; you will only need one visit to know that Helen is quite simply the Best! We are very happy that we have chosen Helen to look after Katie as Katie is very happy and loves being with Helen and her other wee friends!
K.T & F.T, Paisley
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Helen has been responsible for looking after my son (5) since the age of about 6 month.Like any new mum the thought of leaving my child with a “stranger” is a daunting prospect as you feel that there is no one else capable of knowing your child as well as you do and that no one can give the same love and affection.
From the onset Helen acknowledged those fears and did everything in her power to reassure that each child’s individual needs and interests would be cared for. Helen takes great pains to explain to parents as to her methods of working and how these can benefit each child and what the expected results may be. No child has undue pressure placed on them to achieve and each child made to feel valued and loved. Helen to great extent is a “surrogate mum” who provides each child with the care and support that a parent would approval of. Each child is provided with homemade meals and various nutritional snacks throughout the day. Children are also taken to various outlets .. at her own expense as part of their learning experience.
If any reason Helen notices that child is “not themselves” then parents are immediately informed and very often Helen can predict that the child is about to “come down with something”. Helen will advise parents of any concerns and offer her opinion as to how best resolve the issue. If Helen feels that a parent is avoiding an issue or not seeking a resolution to the child’s problem then she is not afraid to voice her opinion and point the parent in the right direction. Likewise, if a child is misbehaving then parents are informed as to the cause and the action taken to resolve the problem. I am more than happy but Helen’s methods in this respect as a child has to have discipline both at home and elsewhere. The fact that Helen uses methods similar to myself means that on taking Lewis home from Helen’s I have no problem trying to impose my methods on Lewis. It also means that children do not see Helen as a “soft option” and an excuse to ”run amok” as they are well aware that bad behavior is not acceptable.
Helen is a first class motivator which is transposed to the children in her care. Helen recognizes each child’s strengths and weaknesses and actively encourages children to “try their best”. She will explain to the children that they cannot be good at everything and that there is nothing wrong in that. Children are told that each and every one of them has something to offer and the children support each other in this also. The children are encouraged to take part in team activities as well as having time to follow their individual interests. Any notable event (such as birthdays) is celebrated and children are made to feel “special”. Helen never fails to acknowledge an event and parties and presents and never far away!!! Helen is inexperienced childminder who is always open to discussion no matter the topic. To many parents she is to more akin to a friend than a child minder to and with whom you can happily in trust your child safety and well being. As a parent you may be apprehensive that your role may be overshadowed by Helen due to the time spent by your child with her. This has never been the case and you tend to feel more like a team working together towards a desired outcome. If visiting Helen for the first time then what is immediately apparent is the love that the children have for each other and also Helen. Children being children have with “fall outs” and “fall ins” but at the end of the day the children have “hugs and kisses” for everyone. The children are seen as their big/little brothers/ sisters.I would have no hesitation in recommending Helen to any a parent considering her services.
M. R., Renfrew
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My son has been with Helen since he was 11 months old, he is a registered disabled and I was informed that with his condition he may never crawl,walk, speak etc. But with Helens help and guidance he can now do all of the above. Helen has been a fantastic help with Glen and I honestly to don’t know what I’d do without her help now.
I would recommend Helen to anyone, as she is much more than a childminder. She is a friend and like part to Glen’s family.
Myself and Glen look forward to many more years with Helen.
Glenn has been through major surgery in his short life and Helen has always been there for him visiting hospital and helping with his recovery.
When you leave your child in Helen’s care I can assure you they are at the best hands possible.
V. S., Renfrew |
Andrew has been in Helen's care since December 2000, when he was one year old. Helen has made it easy for myself to return to work without worrying excessively about Andrew's welfare. Helen is always interested in what happens to Andrew out with her care and of any changes that may have occurred.
During the past year I have noticed that Andrew has become an outgoing boy who is sociable and who mixes easily with the other children in Helen's care. He is also progressing in his speech and ability to perform different developmental activities and tasks appropriate for his age. I also like how Helen rationalises with the children if they are misbehaving or unable to comprehend how something should be done.
When I arrive to collect Andrew he always appears contented and is usually reluctant to go home as he has had such a good time playing with toys and learning new activities. Helen always communicates effectively on how Andrew has been each day.
I am delighted with the provision of care Helen has provided for Andrew and I would have no hesitation in recommending her to any of my friends.
J.B.Renfrew
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Helen has looked after Lewis and Cora since 1998, when our daughter was just six months old. She provides a loving, secure learning environment in her home. The children are stimulated physically and mentally and Helen creates this through an enjoyable and relaxing atmosphere. Helen provides a wide and varied choice of activities both within her home and outwith, at various events and social occasions that she takes the children to.
HeIen also takes an interest in the well being of our children when they are not under her care. She always shows genuine interest and frequently asks about their weekends, holidays, nursery and school. Helen and her family have become friends and much of the care she provides is, we believe, over and above her "duty" as childminder. She has a genuine concern for all the children in her care and keeps in contact with many of them, long after she has stopped providing a service to their parents…….
We would have no hesitation in recommending Helen to other parents or in returning our children to her care if circumstances allowed this.
Mr. A. T & Ms. C. V, Renfrew
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© Helenchildminder, 2006 - 2008
