Unprofessional
Went to visit this childminder for my son and was initially interested in the setting. During my son’s first settling in session I was told to collect him earlier than planned as he was hysterical and wasn’t calming down. Upon collection he had snot all over his face, red in the face and it he appeared to be losing his voice from all the crying. As he wasn’t due to start for the next 2 and in a half weeks I decided to withdraw my son before he had even started as this was unusual behaviour from him. I was denied a refund despite asking for it within my 14 cooling period. I then discovered the supposed owner is not the owner of the nursery and she In fact goes by three different names so I don’t actually know whos care my son is in. I also discovered while doing further research that the nursery got ‘inadequate’ by Ofted last year. When trying to reach out to the owner I have since been blocked and she has been avoiding my calls and emails. Just save the hassle and find a different childminder.
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Response from Kent House Childcare
Responded
Dear Ayanna,
I would like clarify a few points you raised.
Firstly, it is quite common for children to cry during their first settling-in sessions, as they are adjusting to a new environment and unfamiliar people. We made several attempts to comfort your child using various methods, including the ones you suggested, such as cuddles, offering breadsticks, singing, and playing with toys. However, it is important to understand that trust takes time to build, and it is natural for children to initially resist comfort from people they don't yet know. Crying at the start is a normal part of the settling process, and most children adjust as they become familiar with the setting and staff.
We did ask you to collect your child early as he was clearly distressed despite our best efforts, which we felt was in his best interest at the time.
In regard to the deposit, the contract you signed clearly states that the deposit is non-refundable unless six weeks' notice of termination is given or at the end of the contract. Additionally, we do not offer a 14-day cooling-off period, as this is not an online purchase. These terms were provided to you prior to signing the contract, and we adhere to them for all families.
Lastly, the claim that the nursery received an 'inadequate' rating from Ofsted is incorrect. Our most recent Ofsted inspection, in May 2024, rated us as 'Good' across all areas.
Ayanna most of our children are siblings and we have good relationships between the parents, children and ourselves.
Ayanna you are asking us to refund your deposit after weeks of holding the space for your child in which could be given to another child.
We have gone beyond our usual practice to hold the space before and after, because you were unable to pay the deposit at instant. And because we declined to refund your deposit you choose to be malicious by writing the review above.
Ayanna you can’t expect us to change our contract to suit your own agenda because this wouldn’t be fair to the other parents.
Best wishes
